Litigation Support Services

CTL has always recognized that superior performance in every phase of a constructed project does make a difference. In today's society, as we document causes, assess damage, and project repair or reconstruction costs for distressed structures, the question of liability is pervasive, resulting in an inherent possibility of deposition and court trial.

Consulting engineers are often asked to conduct investigations of systems, structural components, and building materials for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, the client's request is straightforward for the purpose of reinstating a structure to its original condition, extending the useful life of a structure, or modifying the structure for a change of use. Other times, however, the engineer's goal is to determine the cause(s) and extent of either a serviceability or total failure.

Total failures (collapse) are often classified as "strength" failures. Although they are relatively infrequent, they are often catastrophic. Serviceability failures, on the other hand, are more of the "norm." These failures are associated with distress that reduces functional capability and, while less dramatic, they can result in significant financial loss.

Regardless of the client's need, CTL engineers, many of whom have served as experts in litigation, are consistent with their approach to every investigation by realizing that every facet of the structure's history must be studied. CTL's investigations include review of design and construction records, review of industry standards and code requirements, performing supplemental field and laboratory tests, and research of relevant and authoritative technical publications. As a result, CTL investigations yield solid and reliable data for use during litigation.

Construction Technology Laboratories, Inc. (CTL), 5420 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077-1030. Tel: 800-522-2285; Fax: 847-965-6541.