Michael Contos

Michael T. Contos counsels clients in the commercial real estate and construction industries and serves as outside general counsel for cooperatives and condominiums. His clients include commercial, institutional and residential real estate developers, owners and operators; condominiums and cooperatives; construction management firms and general contractors; hotel owners and operators; non-profits; and other business entities.  Michael’s keen understanding of the real estate and construction business climate allows him to act as a business partner to his clients, offering sound, actionable legal advice.

Michael is recognized for his skill in developing creative solutions to complex disputes in the commercial litigation arena. When litigation is the best option, he litigates and tries cases in state and federal courts, before various alternative dispute resolution bodies and administrative agencies.  He is experienced in prosecuting and defending construction and real estate-related disputes, including complex construction and design disputes; delay claims, acceleration and consequential damage claims; surety bond claims; lien and trust fund issues; lease and ownership matters; access disputes; New York Lien Law and Prompt Payment Act claims and general contract matters.

 

Michael’s work extends to negotiating and structuring complex construction and real estate contracts on behalf of his clients and diligently advising them through all phases from conception to completion.

 

Michael is a member of the faculty of New York University where he teaches courses in construction dispute resolution and hospitality and tourism law and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Union Community Health Center.

 

Michael appears on the list of New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars, 2017 to 2022.