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Sam O'Callaghan

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Sam is an experienced construction lawyer with expertise in resolving disputes and unlocking problem projects.

Sam completed his Bar Professional Training Course in 2014 before joining a construction claims consultancy in Bristol specialising in Adjudication and Arbitration.

In 2017, Sam joined a Welsh-regional law firm and qualified as a Solicitor in the Construction, Energy and Projects team. Whilst in the law firm, Sam was ranked in Legal 500 for 4 years and recognised as a Leading Associate.

In May 2024, Sam set up OPC Law Limited to continue to deliver Construction and Procurement advice.

Case Studies

Non-contentious construction

  • £20million highways contract dualling an existing A-road based on NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract.
  • £30million City-centre development – repurposing 6-storey office block to residential with a 3-storey upwards extension based on JCT Design and Build Contract 2016. Including providing full package of security documents for two funders.
  • £80million tripartite agreement for the funding, development and management of rail lines in Wales.
  • £10million dry-mixed recyclate facility based on NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract (case study on NEC’s website).

Construction disputes and problem projects

  • Successful adjudication on behalf of a local authority for declaratory relief, defeating a £20million claim for additional payment under a JCT Measured Term Contract 2016.
  • Represented a local authority on multiple disputes under a JCT Design and Build Contract 2016, totalling claims of £3million. Including extension of time, loss and expense, delay damages and defects claims. Successful adjudication for declaratory relief to defeat the claim in its entirety.
  • Acting for local authority across multiple projects in dispute with demolition contractor with 3x final account adjudications.

Public Procurement

  • Advising on the procurement of a package of three major national education projects totalling over £1billion. This included successfully defending multiple procurement challenges.
  • Advising Universities procurement team on multiple procurement projects (including IT infrastructure, a £40million new build development, and soft facilities management services).
  • Leading on the procurement of a long-term engineering services contract for three local authorities utilising the NEC4 Term Service Contract with an anticipated total value in excess of £70 million.
Memberships

Vice Chair of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators

Quotes

‘Phenomenal’ associate Samuel O’Callaghan has ‘in-depth knowledge on a wide variety of construction contracts’ and is also “well regarded for his contentious skills. ~Legal 500 2023

 
 “Samuel O’Callaghan is an exceptional solicitor of vast knowledge. His skill set is second-to-none and offers pragmatic advice that is supported on solid legal foundations.” ~Legal 500 2022
 
“Sam O’Callaghan is also praised for his ‘good working knowledge of the construction industry’ and is particularly accomplished at handling adjudication work.” ~Legal 500 2021
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About OPC Law

We specialise in Procurement and Construction law.

Navigating the complex legal landscape of the construction industry requires specialised knowledge and experience. We are here to provide you with expert advice.

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OPC Law Limited | Company registered in England & Wales (15645171)
Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA number: 8007768