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Paul Barnet Bio Image | Much Law

Patrick is a results-driven litigator based in Much’s Chicago office, where he helps clients navigate complex, high-stakes disputes in the construction industry and beyond. Known for his sharp instincts and understanding of construction law, Patrick represents owners, developers, design professionals, general contractors, and specialty subcontractors in litigation involving breach of contract, delays and disruptions, construction and design defects, bond claims, and mechanics lien matters. His litigation experience also spans commercial, real estate, employment, and insurance defense matters in both state and federal courts as well as in arbitration.

Patrick has played a lead role in litigating and resolving disputes tied to some of the largest and most technically sophisticated construction projects in the Midwest, including one of the most expansive public works projects in Chicago’s history. His portfolio includes high-rise commercial and mixed-use developments, airports, process facilities, hotels, universities, and other large-scale infrastructure and institutional builds, often involving eight-figure liability at issue.

A tenacious advocate for his clients, Patrick leads litigation strategy and crafts and argues dispositive motions, including motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment. He also manages complex discovery, conducts and defends depositions of fact and expert witnesses, and drives negotiations toward favorable outcomes. Whether in the courtroom or before an arbitration panel, Patrick is known for his strategic thinking, command of the details, and relentless focus on client goals.

On the transactional side, Patrick is a trusted advisor for construction players looking to minimize risk and protect their bottom line. He regularly drafts and negotiates industry-standard agreements, including AIA contract documents, master subcontract agreements, and bespoke project-specific contracts. Clients also seek his guidance on risk allocation and transfer, regulatory compliance, project delivery strategies, insurance coverage, and bonded construction. His foresight and practical advice help clients avoid disputes before they arise.

A recognized thought leader in the construction space, Patrick co-authored the “Representing the Architect” chapter in the 2024 Edition of Representing the Parties to a Construction Project, a leading handbook for Illinois construction attorneys published by the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education. His December 2023 article published by the National Law Review analyzed a key shift in legal precedent surrounding insurance coverage for inadvertent construction defects — an evolving area with major implications for construction professionals and insurers alike.

Outside the construction world, as a former student-athlete, Patrick channels his competitive drive into a strong practice in sports and entertainment law. He successfully defended a high-profile NCAA Division I men’s basketball coach during a nationally publicized compliance investigation, and he now regularly advises current and former athletes and entertainers on contract negotiations, brand protection, intellectual property, and business ventures.

Much More Than My Work

I serve as a volunteer attorney with First Defense Legal Aid, a nonprofit organization that aims to interrupt mass incarceration at the point of entry by filling gaps in public defense. In this role, I provide legal representation to individuals in police custody and educate them on protecting their constitutional rights.

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