Michael De Freitas Email & Phone Number

Johannesburg, Gp, Za

Johannesburg Metropolitan Area

Draft, review, and negotiate complex construction contracts, including main contracts, subcontracts, and consultancy agreements, ensuring risk allocation and compliance with legal frameworks.Provide legal counsel on regulatory compliance, building codes, zoning laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations across all project phases.Manage bid and tender processes by advising on procurement laws and resolving disputes arising from rejections or contractual… Show more Draft, review, and negotiate complex construction contracts, including main contracts, subcontracts, and consultancy agreements, ensuring risk allocation and compliance with legal frameworks.Provide legal counsel on regulatory compliance, building codes, zoning laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations across all project phases.Manage bid and tender processes by advising on procurement laws and resolving disputes arising from rejections or contractual misunderstandings.Advise project teams on contract interpretation, risk management, and dispute avoidance during construction.Represent clients in dispute resolution processes, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation, addressing claims related to delays, defects, and contract breaches.Enforce and defend claims regarding payments, liens, bonds, and warranty obligations post-construction.Conduct legal research to ensure alignment with evolving construction laws and case precedents.Deliver training sessions to project teams on regulatory compliance, contract management, and best practices.Coordinate with diverse stakeholders, including contractors, engineers, and regulatory bodies, to resolve complex legal issues and ensure smooth project execution.Maintain accurate documentation and prepare detailed records for audits, claims, and legal proceedings. Show less

Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Strategy DevelopmentLead research and review to develop the company’s Property Management strategy, policies, and standard operating procedures for efficient resource use.Portfolio ManagementOversee the company’s immovable property portfolio, managing the tendering process for new properties and procuring refurbishments and office leases.Liaise with tenants, service providers, and contractors to address concerns and ensure smooth operations.Compliance and… Show more Strategy DevelopmentLead research and review to develop the company’s Property Management strategy, policies, and standard operating procedures for efficient resource use.Portfolio ManagementOversee the company’s immovable property portfolio, managing the tendering process for new properties and procuring refurbishments and office leases.Liaise with tenants, service providers, and contractors to address concerns and ensure smooth operations.Compliance and MaintenanceEnsure occupied spaces meet national operations space specifications, especially for new offices.Address operations and maintenance issues and manage rental rates for competitive tenant retention.Lease ManagementPrepare and secure approval for BAC reports on procurement and lease renewals.Maintain lease information in line with agreements between landlords and tenants.Coordinate refurbishments of new buildings per tenant specifications.Regulatory ComplianceEnsure compliance with building regulations and landlord maintenance obligations.Conduct legal research on property laws, analyze legal documents, and draft contracts and agreements as needed.Client and Stakeholder ManagementAddress internal and external queries related to office accommodation, ensuring timely and satisfactory responses.Report monthly to committees and management as required.Financial ManagementManage trust and investment funds, ensuring complexes are insured and premiums are paid on time.Facilitate collection procedures and oversee staff payroll compliance for Homeowners Associations (HOA) and Body Corporates.Continuous ImprovementEnhance knowledge of South African property laws and ensure compliant contractors service complexes.Monitor unit transfers within the portfolio and manage related processes. Show less

Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Legal Research: Conduct thorough research on construction matters, regulations, and case law to support legal arguments and legal advice.Contract Drafting and Review: Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts to ensure they are legally sound and protect the client's interests. This includes addressing terms related to scope, payment, and timelines.Dispute Resolution: Assist Senior Associates in resolving disputes that arise during construction projects through… Show more Legal Research: Conduct thorough research on construction matters, regulations, and case law to support legal arguments and legal advice.Contract Drafting and Review: Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts to ensure they are legally sound and protect the client's interests. This includes addressing terms related to scope, payment, and timelines.Dispute Resolution: Assist Senior Associates in resolving disputes that arise during construction projects through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. This involves preparing for and representing clients in court if necessary.Claims Management: Assist with claims related to construction issues such as delays, defects, Insurance or changes in project scope. This includes submitting claims for added compensation and time.Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all construction activities comply with laws, including zoning, safety regulations, and environmental laws at a basic/fundamental level.Risk Management: Identify potential risks in construction projects and propose strategies to mitigate them, protecting the client's interests.Client Consultation: Provide legal advice (under supervision of Senior Associates) and provide guidance to clients on various aspects of construction law, including contract interpretation, compliance issues, and best practices.Document Management: Prepare and manage all necessary legal documentation, including permits, inspection reports, and correspondence related to construction projects.Trial Preparation: Prepare cases for trial by collecting necessary documentation.Collaboration with Experts Witnesses: Work with industry experts, mainly engineers and architects, to gather insights and evidence that support the client's position in disputes and/or claims.File Management: administer and update all legal matters allocated to meArbitration & Adjudication Proceedings: Prepare Statements of Claim & Statements of Defence for multiple concurrent matters Show less

Bachelor Of Laws - Llb, Law

Bcom Law