# 011653

Lawyers Meet Dirt: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

This presentation will serve as an introduction to the basic concepts of civil and geotechnical engineering as they relate to design, construction, and performance in the built environment. We will discuss geotechnical engineering issues, the role of the geotechnical engineer, and how soils are stabilized to support the structures that are built on them. We will also address common problems that lead to claims and disputes by incorporating representative case histories as examples.

We will address:

• Common properties of soil

• Geotechnical testing

• Piles and drilled shafts

• Soil compaction

• Foundation types

• Differing site condition claims

This session will be presented by Kenneth Baker, PE and Chris Spandau, PE, GE from Hill International.

Kenneth R. Baker is a Professional Engineer (CO) and General Building Contractor (CA) in construction and real estate consulting. His work is in the areas of construction and real estate dispute resolution and claims; expert testimony; litigation and ADR support services; project, program, and construction management; CPM scheduling; innovative-alternative procurement methods and document development; and training seminars. Mr. Baker is a SVP for Hill International and manages their Western Region Claims and Consulting practice.

Christopher Spandau is a licensed PE (CA, NV, TX) and GE (CA) with more than 35 years of extensive experience covering a broad range of civil, environmental, geotechnical engineering and construction management issues. His expertise includes strategic planning, project management, resident engineering, project review, scheduling and coordination. Mr. Spandau's projects include airfields, pavement management systems, massive embankment projects, heavy rail, bridges, shallow and deep foundations, insitu densification, geotechnical/ pavement-oriented construction claims analysis and dispute resolution. Mr. Spandau is an Executive Consultant for Hill International.