Managing Payment Challenges

Payment disputes can have serious financial repercussions for contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and owners involved in projects. When calls and invoices don't resolve issues with slow payers or non-payers, escalation may be necessary. Our attorneys at Bennett Legal Group provide the legal support needed to protect your business and pursue the payments owed to you.

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Complex Financial Impact

Payment disputes can involve large sums that significantly impact the financial health of a business.

Legal Expertise Needed

Strong legal representation is essential to navigate these disputes and achieve favorable outcomes.

Resolution Strategies

Negotiation, mediation, and arbitration are often preferred to litigation but being prepared for trial is crucial.

Common Questions

Facing a payment dispute? Contact our seasoned attorneys to explore your options and achieve the best possible outcome. Our team will provide the strategic guidance you need to navigate these complex issues efficiently and protect your business interests.

State government construction projects

Generally, after receiving payment from the public entity, the contractor must pay subcontractors and suppliers within 10 days. A subcontractor must then pay sub-subcontractors and suppliers within seven days and late payments incur interest at one percent per month.
Local government projects

Generally, the funds are due from the owner 20 or 25 business days (depending on if a government agent’s approval is necessary) after a proper payment request is received. If rejected, the rejection must be made in writing within 20 business days.
Private construction projects

Generally, if a contractor, subcontractor, sub-subcontractor, or material supplier has completed the work as specified by contract, they are entitled to be paid promptly. Interest may be applied after the payment due date, if payment is not issued promptly.

Construction prompt payment laws in Florida

All parties in a construction contract in Florida must abide by the state’s prompt payment construction laws.

These laws recognize the important role that construction plays in the economy of the state and strive to avoid disputes by ensuring that contractors are treated fairly and paid on time for their work.

Other specific payment laws relate to construction projects such as bridges and roads for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and public-private partnerships projects.

All of the above laws apply generally to payment disputes among contractors, subcontractors, sub-subcontractors and material supplies.
How Are Liens Used in Payment Disputes?

Liens are legal claims against a property for unpaid work or materials. Filing a lien can be an effective way to secure payment, but it requires strict adherence to legal procedures and timelines.
What Are Common Defenses Against Unjustified Payment Demands?

Defenses may include poor workmanship, unreasonable delays, or breaches of contract by the contractor. Legal representation is crucial to establish these defenses and protect against unjustified payment demands.

The threat of a lien or litigation from our payment dispute attorneys is often enough for the funds to appear. However, if the payment issue remains disputed and we cannot solve it by negotiation or mediation, we are prepared to aggressively pursue your interests at trial.

If you are an owner or developer, facing payment demands or liens from contractors, subcontractors or suppliers, our payment dispute attorneys are here to help you as well. We are well versed in all aspects of making proper payments under Florida’s complex construction lien laws as well as contractual defenses to unjustified payment demands.