How do you remain excited about practicing law after 35 years? "It isn't about winning awards or being recognized for legal excellence, it's about creating relationships with clients who see value in positive outcomes for each legal challenge," says Steve.

As one client comments about Steve, "He is a great strategist. He is all about getting me back to running my company, not dealing with a legal problem."

Steve's vast trial experience includes over 100 trials, including jury trials in both state and federal courts, bench trials and arbitration hearings.

A nationally recognized authority in the construction industry, he represents construction clients in contract disputes, non-payment claims and employee and labor issues.

Seminars and Publications

Steve is a frequent speaker and author on construction topics including construction contracts, government contract claims, performance and payment bonds, indemnity agreements, commercial crime policies, punitive damages, change orders and delay claims.

Honors and Awards

• Selected for inclusion in Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers (2005-2011)
• Who's Who Among Executives and Professionals (2010)
• Best Lawyers - "Best Law Firms" Rankings - (Tier 1 Ranking) Kansas City, Missouri Construction Law - U.S. News & World Report Best Lawyers (2010)
• Best Lawyers in America® - Construction Law - Woodward/White, Inc. (2007-2010)
• Best Lawyers in Kansas City - Construction/Surety Law - Ingram's Magazine (2009-2012)
• Continental Who's Who Registry of National Business Leaders (2007)
• Associate Member of the Year - Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (2006, 2011)
• Outstanding Service by a New Member - Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (2005)

Representative Cases

International Fidelity Insurance Co. v. U.S. - Steve helped establish the client surety's lien priority over IRS liens.

USF&G v. Missouri Highway & Transportation Commission - Steve proved the client surety had equitable lien priority over State Department of Transportation's equitable right of setoff.

City of St. Joseph, Missouri v. Kaw Valley Tunneling, Inc. - Steve prevailed in proving the rights of indemnification on part of client contractor against negligent City.

City of Independence, Missouri v. Kerr Asphalt Paving Company, Inc. - Steve prevailed in proving no surety liability under Missouri Prompt Payment Act for statutory penalties.

FGI Glass Contracting, Inc. v. Walton Construction Co., Inc (AAA Arbitration) - Steve assisted with obtaining a $5,200,000 arbitration award against Walton Construction Co., Inc. on behalf of FGI Glass Contracting, Inc. in connection with the construction of the Kansas City International Airport.