This program is sponsored by Lee/Shoemaker PLLC.

This course provides participants with essential knowledge of professional liability and risk management as it relates to the field of architecture. Students will examine the legal implications of the standard of care, distinguish between negligence and professional judgment, and analyze key contract clauses that affect risk—such as indemnification and liability limitations. Practical strategies for reducing risk through communication, documentation, and negotiation are covered, along with real-world case studies that highlight lessons learned from claims and disputes.

Learning Objectives:

• Define the legal implications of the professional standard of care in architectural practice, and distinguish between negligence, errors/omissions, and reasonable professional judgment.
• Analyze common contractual clauses that impact risk allocation, including indemnification, limitation of liability, and standard of care provisions.
• Apply strategies for managing and mitigating professional liability risks through effective communication, documentation, and proactive contract negotiation.
• Evaluate real-world case studies where deviations from the standard of care or poorly managed contract terms resulted in claims or disputes, and identify lessons learned for future practice.

This is a 1 hour virtual event via Zoom. Registration is required.

About Lee/Shoemaker PLLC

Few design professionals enter the industry for the glamour of parsing indemnity provisions, understanding what is (and is not) covered by their professional liability policy, and dwelling on the risks imposed by contracts proposed by their clients. Lee/Shoemaker PLLC provides legal services to help design firms of all sizes establish effective risk management practices which serve as the foundation for the long term success of their practices.

Provider Number: A058
Course: NOVA2025-022
Session: 1
Pending 1.0 AIA LU | Elective