Presentation Topic: Engineering Risk Management – The Standard of Care and Contractual Liability
Registration: Registration for this event is now closed.
Abstract: The presentation will walk attendees through the legal implications of the professional standard of care as it applies to engineers, drawing a clear line between ordinary negligence and the exercise of sound professional judgment. From there, the presentation turns to the contract clauses that most often shape risk allocation on engineering projects, including indemnification provisions and limitation-of-liability language, illustrated with real examples of how such provisions have played out in litigation. The session closes with practical, actionable strategies engineers can use to reduce risk on future projects—through better communication, thorough documentation, and more effective contract negotiation.
Presenters:
Daniel M. Eggleston – Counsel, Lee/Shoemaker PLLC
Curtis A. Orshoski – Counsel, Lee/Shoemaker PLLC
Daniel M. Eggleston is a seasoned litigator who defends design professionals in courtrooms throughout Virginia, Daniel understands that preparation creates a tactical advantage. By thoroughly examining the facts and legal issues at hand, Daniel develops strategies for each case that encompass all aspects of the litigation arena. Daniel’s familiarity with many Virginia jurisdictions and judges provides him with a unique advantage in developing a litigation plan, as he first gained exposure to construction disputes as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Charles L. Ricketts, III, in the City of Staunton, Virginia.
It can be unsettling to be a party to a legal claim, and an effective defense often hinges on mapping and executing a comprehensive strategy. Whether defending his client in a $25,000 cost overrun claim in general district court or in a $25,000,000 wrongful death claim presented to a jury, Daniel brings this approach to every matter he handles, recognizing that it is critical for his clients to have an advocate in their corner who will take a precise but exhaustive approach to meeting their objectives. Daniel’s track record in the courtroom – whether before a judge or jury – speaks for itself.
Daniel’s commitment to and advocacy for his clients are the cornerstones of his practice. In addition to his litigation practice, Daniel advises architects and engineers on contract negotiations and general business counseling, drawing on his experience in the courtroom to provide practical solutions to allocate risk fairly.
Curtis A. Orshoski is counsel at Lee/Shoemaker, a law firm devoted exclusively to the representation of design professionals. His professional career has been devoted to advising design professionals – from solo practitioners to international firms. Curt has experience in all phases of dispute resolution and takes pride in his ability to evaluate factual and legal arguments, present available options to his client, and develop and implement a strategy to achieve his client’s objectives. Drawing on lessons learned from representing design professionals involved in disputes, Curt is passionate about helping his clients improve their risk management strategies and contractual risk allocation to avoid or mitigate the impact of claims.
He is admitted to the bars and federal trial courts of Virginia and the District of Columbia. Curt is active with ACEC councils and AIA chapters in the region and is an active member of the American Bar Association’s Forum on Construction Law. Curt has earned peer-reviewed Super Lawyers recognition in D.C. the last two years.
When: Thursday, August 20th, 2026
11:45 AM -12 PM – Sign in and Networking
12 PM -1PM – Presentation
Where: Libbie Mill Library, 2100 Libbie Lake E St., Richmond, VA 23230
Registration Price:
Members: $15 members
Non-Members: $20
Late Ticket: $20 ($25 Non-Members)
Students: Free
Lunch is included with purchase of ticket.
PDH: 1.0 HR