February 24, 2025 Message from the Chair-Elect
Message from the 2025-2026 Chair
Tracy James
As 2025-2026 Chair of the ABA Forum on Construction Law, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the transformative value this organization brings to its members. Our motto—Building the Best Construction Lawyer—is more than a slogan. It is a blueprint. It reflects our deep commitment to equipping construction law professionals with the knowledge, relationships, and resources they need to thrive in a dynamic and demanding field.
The Forum delivers on this promise through a powerful triad: Programs, Publications, and People.
Our Programs—national meetings, regional workshops, and webinars—offer unmatched opportunities for continuing legal education and practical insights. They address both the fundamentals and the emerging issues that shape our practice. Whether you're a young lawyer finding your footing or a seasoned veteran navigating new complexities, these events provide a vital space for sharpening your skills.
Our Publications—including books, the Under Construction newsletter, and our Construction Disputes reports—are consistently regarded as authoritative sources in the field. They reflect our role as a thought leader and help define the contours of construction law. They are also a testament to the intellectual generosity and collaborative spirit of our members, who are always willing to share knowledge to elevate the profession.
And at the core of it all are our People. The Forum is a community. It is a network of colleagues, mentors, and friends who understand the challenges of our industry and stand ready to support one another. In a field where relationships often matter as much as contracts, this kind of connection is not just meaningful—it is indispensable.
That spirit of professional community is especially important as we look toward a historic milestone: the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. It is often overlooked that 25 of the 56 signers of the Declaration were lawyers. These were individuals who understood the power of legal thought, the importance of civic responsibility, and the foundational role of the rule of law. Their legacy is a powerful reminder that attorneys have long been central to shaping the direction of our nation. Today, as we face a fast-changing legal and construction landscape, the need for engaged, informed, and connected legal professionals is more urgent than ever. Organizations like the Forum provide exactly that—a platform where lawyers not only learn and grow but also contribute to the broader legal and civic dialogue.
As we approach this momentous anniversary, I encourage you to reflect on your role in that legacy. Participate in the Forum’s programs. Write for our publications. Mentor a new member. Attend our events and grow your network. These are not just professional activities; they are acts of stewardship, grounded in the belief that our collective work strengthens the legal profession and, in turn, the world we help build—literally and figuratively.
In that spirit, I thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to seeing what we can continue to build—together.
Warmly,
Tracy
2025-2026 Chair, ABA Forum on Construction Law