Complex/Cross-Border Construction Claims: Arbitrators, Mediators (former GCs) Explore Dispute Resolution to Keep Projects Moving

Laura C. Abrahamson, Esq. has robust ADR experience, and brings unique and pragmatic perspectives to her ADR practice at JAMS, as well as national and international experience in the engineering, construction, oil and gas, and chemicals industries.Ms. Abrahamson has experience as an arbitrator, advocate and client in over 100 arbitrations and major litigation matters and over 50 mediations. Ms. Abrahamson previously served as senior vice president, deputy general counsel and global head of litigation at AECOM, an American multinational firm that provides engineering, design, consulting and construction services, where she oversaw complex, cross-border disputes under the rules of major institutions. 

Philip L. Bruner, Esq. is a leading ADR specialist of construction, engineering, and infrastructure claims and disputes arising in the United States and globally. He is a distinguished member of the panels of neutrals of both JAMS and JAMS International, and is the director of JAMS Global Engineering and Construction Group. As a practicing lawyer for over 40 years prior to becoming a full-time neutral, Mr. Bruner concentrated on construction, engineering, energy and infrastructure litigation. Represented parties included the spectrum of construction industry participants: public and private owners, contractors, subcontractors, specialty contractors, architects, engineers, sureties, insurers, material manufacturers, material suppliers, and equipment suppliers.

Paul A. Bruno, Esq., FCIArb joined JAMS following a 37-year career dedicated to the construction industry. Mr. Bruno brings a unique and valuable perspective to his ADR practice based upon his experience as an arbitrator, pro-tem judge, trial lawyer and client. Prior to joining JAMS, Mr. Bruno spent 18 years in leadership positions within the legal organization of Fluor Corporation, including, most recently, as Managing General Counsel for the dispute resolution function. In this capacity, he managed dispute resolution for Fluor worldwide, leading a team of lawyers and construction contract professionals in the Corporate Claims Management Group. 

Katherine Hope Gurun, Esq. joined JAMS in September of 2006 as a mediator and arbitrator. Ms. Gurun was formerly Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Bechtel Corporation, one of the world’s premier engineering and construction companies. Her experience spans both private industry and public service in engineering and construction, business, energy, project finance, joint venture disputes, risk management, and nuclear disarmament. Ms. Gurun has represented both owners and contractors and has an established track record of settling disputes through ADR, particularly mediation and arbitration.