CHICAGO— Jan. 20, 2010 — Owners, developers and other construction clients can get exceptional legal expertise at competitive rates in a new boutique firm launched this month by two leading construction law attorneys.

Ty Laurie, former chair of DLA Piper’s construction law group and a Glenview resident, and Daniel Brennan, also a former DLA partner and construction law group member, opened Laurie & Brennan LLP on Jan. 5. The two have worked together for two decades; their legal footprints can be seen in projects from Soldier Field to the new Children’s Memorial Hospital under construction in Streeterville.

Joining them are three former DLA attorneys: Krista Hallberg Kapp, Vasilios (Bill) Toliopoulos, and Chad Shifrin. The new firm is located at 2 N. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1750.

“We’re a boutique construction law firm that represents the gamut of industry professionals. We will provide comprehensive legal representation with respect to major local, regional, national, and international construction projects, whether such representation is a contract negotiation or claim prosecution and defense. We will put our footprint on all types of construction projects--commercial, industrial and mixed-use projects, sports stadiums, medical facilities and oil refineries. That’s what we do,” says Laurie.

“You’re looking at two things: Same quality at lower rates,” he adds.

Laurie, 48, and Brennan, 44, work on both litigation and transactional matters. Laurie is also a certified arbitrator and mediator, providing neutral services around the country. Brennan has recently been certified as a mediator as well.

The move from DLA was amicable, all parties agree. It allows Laurie & Brennan LLP to avoid many of the conflicts that arise in large firms like DLA, and it also allows the new firm to offer more competitive rates.

“We leave a lot of wonderful friends” at DLA, says Brennan. “We don’t say goodbye; we say farewell.”

Both Laurie and Brennan are highly ranked by Chambers USA, Legal 500, Who’s Who, Best Lawyers in America, and other publications. They are also among the state’s top 10 Leading Construction Lawyers based on the latest survey by the Leading Lawyers Network. Scott C. Anderson, director of the Leading Lawyers Network, says the new firm should appeal to clients looking for exceptional value for top-notch legal savvy.