Interview: Matt Collins, shareholder and construction attorney, Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson

Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson P.A. is celebrating its 40-year anniversary this month. During its four decades of work, the Minneapolis-based law firm has successfully represented clients in cases and advocated for legislation related to the state’s construction industry. Looking ahead to its next 40 years, the firm plans to continue shaping the real estate and construction industry through its work, says Matt Collins. Collins is a shareholder and an attorney with the firm’s construction law department. His work spans litigating for successful verdicts in commercial and business disputes. His clients include leading local, national and international construction companies, while he also has experience that goes beyond the industry. Although Collins has expertise on various topics, he says the firm’s work on the Spearin Doctrine through the Alley Construction Co. Inc. v. State of Minnesota case was among the most impactful on the state’s construction industry. The Spearin Doctrine says the government impliedly warrants that plans and specifications given to contractors for a public project are accurate and adequate. The firm was the first to use the doctrine in Minnesota. In this interview with Reporter Kelly Busche, Collins discusses the doctrine, work on cases that ensure public projects are property awarded and trends in the Twin Cities legal community.