Mediator Resume

Attorney - Construction

Kaster & Cop, LLC, 2012-Present; Craig L. Kaster & Associates, LLC, 2003-2011; Partner, Gunn, Kaster & Burgmeier, LLP, 1985-2003; Partner, Kizer & Hood, 1981-1985; Law Clerk, Judge William H. Brown, 19th Judicial District Court, 1980-1981; U.S. Army, 1972-1977.

Over 40 years exclusively engaged in construction law matters, primarily representing general contractors, subcontractors and specialty contractors, suppliers/manufacturers, sureties/insurers, lenders, architects, engineers, designers, owners, developers and public agencies. Public and private projects include commercial, heavy highway, industrial, institutional and residential structures. Handles disputes involving contract interpretation, plans, specifications, change orders and acceleration and delay claims. Has handled residential, commercial and industrial disputes with as many as 30 parties valued up to $20 million dollars.

Only mediates construction cases. The types of projects mediated have included residential, industrial, and commercial. Has mediated over a hundred cases; 50% are residential, 40% commercial, 10% are industrial. Twenty-five years of practice as mediator. Mediated over 100 cases. Mediation references are as follows: Sharon Kyle, (225) 293-8400; Brian Cohn, (225) 769-0858; Mark Mese, (225) 387-0999; additional references available upon request.

Construction cases which have involved issues of delay, scheduling, design, change orders, breach of contract, payment, damages, mold and interference by third parties, owner and/or design professionals.

Mediation in construction cases will settle if: 1. The parties can set aside any animosity toward other parties, 2. The parties who have authority to settle are present at the mediation, 3. The parties agree to adjust from previous positions toward settlement, and 4. The parties will commit to stay with the mediation process as long as the mediator feels settlement is possible.

U.S. Military Academy at West Point (BS-1972); Louisiana State University (JD-1980).

Admitted to the Bar: Louisiana (1980).

Louisiana Bar Association (Council Member; Fidelity, Surety and Construction Law Section); Associated General Contractors.

LOUISIANA CONSTRUCTION LAW, National Business Institute. Published numerous articles for the National Business Institute and Lorman Business College.

Hourly Rate: $450.00 Daily Rate: Not provided Study Rate: $450.00/hr Cancellation: Not provided Cancellation Period: Not provided Comment: A full day will be charged for any conference held outside the Baton Rouge area. This full day's charge takes into account the mediator's travel time. Cancellation policy: refund for any time not used.

English

United States of America

Zachary, Louisiana