Gregory Ziegler, attorney and advisor, has dedicated his career to helping engineers and architects navigate the complexities and risks that come with working in design and construction. His connection to the industry is personal. Growing up, his father designed and built their family home, and by the time Ziegler was six years old, he was already reading architectural plans.
By age eight, he was helping lay bricks and install insulation, all under the hot Texas sun. These experiences gave him a strong understanding and appreciation for the design and construction process, which now guides his legal practice.
When Ziegler became a lawyer, focusing on the unique challenges faced by engineers and architects was a natural fit, given his background. He understands the unique pressures they face, from project deadlines to client expectations, and the high stakes when something goes wrong.
He’s been inspired not only by his early experiences, but also by his own son’s career in engineering, which further fuels his passion for safeguarding the careers of those who work in these important industries. For Ziegler, representing these professionals isn’t just about handling contracts and resolving disputes, but about making sure their careers, reputations, and livelihoods are preserved.
Balancing Risk and Reward in Design Careers
In the fields of architecture and engineering, risks are inherent. Ziegler’s work focuses on guiding clients through these hazards, whether it’s during project selection, contract negotiation, or addressing unforeseen issues that arise during construction.
Ziegler understands that success in these fields often brings increased legal challenges, especially as technology raises the stakes. The more technology advances, the more engineers and architects are expected to deliver precise and innovative solutions. This creates heightened expectations, which increases the possibility of claims if things don’t go as planned.
For Ziegler, one of the most significant legal risks in these professions comes down to the project selected and contract language. Engineers and architects must decide what projects to take on and what contracts they’re willing to accept. These decisions are crucial because they influence not only the success of a project but also the likelihood of legal disputes.
Ziegler works with clients to strike a balance between risk and reward. He helps them carefully assess project terms and manage the trade-offs between securing business and protecting themselves legally. He emphasizes that no contract is foolproof—there’s always an element of compromise. What’s critical is ensuring that compromise doesn’t lead to unnecessary exposure.
Helping Clients When Everything Is on the Line
Over the years, Ziegler’s legal expertise has saved his clients from some major crises while leaving a lasting impact on his career. One of his most prominent cases was the Ocean Tower Padre Island project, often called the “Leaning Tower of South Padre.” Most people thought that his client was headed straight for financial ruin, but through Ziegler’s legal work, the client avoided bankruptcy and is still successful today.
Another case involved defending a design professional in a multi-million-dollar lawsuit. The plaintiff was out to destroy the client’s reputation and finances. After a month-long trial, Ziegler won, saving his client’s career and future. For him, these victories are more than just legal wins, but personal triumphs that allow him to defend people whose careers are on the line.
He understands the immense pressure that comes when a person’s license, reputation, and financial future are on the line. That’s why he takes each case personally, making sure his clients are safeguarded—no matter the size of the issue.
Understanding Risks in Contracts
One of the most important parts of Ziegler’s job is negotiating contracts, which are rarely straightforward. There’s often a delicate balance between protecting a client’s legal interests and ensuring that they can still move forward with their project. Ziegler works closely with his clients to make sure that they understand the risks involved in their contracts and how to look after themselves without losing out on opportunities.
During a high-profile sports stadium project, Ziegler’s skills in this area were put to the test. His client was offered a significant role in the design, but the contract terms were strict and non-negotiable. Ziegler took a hard look at the risks and ultimately advised his client to walk away, even though it was a tough call. It turned out to be the right decision—those who stayed on the project faced financial losses, but Ziegler’s client avoided disaster.
Staying With Clients From Start to Finish
Known for his commitment to the people he serves, Greg Ziegler—attorney and industry expert—ensures his clients’ legal protection at every step. His work doesn’t stop after the contract is signed. He stays involved throughout the whole project to make sure his clients are safe. Whether it’s helping them meet legal requirements or guiding them through unexpected problems, he’s always ready to step in when needed.
Ziegler supports his clients by emphasizing the need for clear communication. He encourages them to maintain thorough, written documentation of everything—from emails and meeting minutes to agreements with contractors and clients. Should a legal issue arise, having a well-documented record can be a crucial advantage.
Ziegler also assists with intellectual property issues, helping his clients keep their designs from being copied or used without their permission. When someone does cross the line, he’s there to enforce his clients’ rights and protect their work.
The Future of Design Law
As the design and construction industries keep changing, Ziegler has recognized new challenges his clients are likely to face. A major concern today is the shortage of young lawyers who understand the specific needs of engineers and architects. It’s becoming more difficult to find legal professionals who are both talented and dedicated to serving these industries, but Ziegler sees this as an opportunity for new talent to fill the gap.
Looking ahead, he believes the industry will continue to grow and change, with more collaboration between designers, contractors, and owners. He’s excited about this shift toward teamwork, which he hopes will reduce legal disputes and lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. Ziegler’s forward-thinking approach means he’s always focused on preventing issues before they happen, ensuring smoother projects and fewer legal battles.
For those thinking about pursuing a career in law, Ziegler recommends gaining a wide range of experiences and focusing on communication. Listening to clients and clearly explaining legal strategies are key to building a successful legal practice, particularly when working in specialized fields like architecture and engineering.
Legal Advocacy With a Personal Touch
When it comes to the legal risks in design and construction, Greg Ziegler—attorney and trusted advocate—brings a level of expertise that is hard to match. To him, no case is just another case, but an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. He approaches every challenge with a personal touch, taking the time to understand not just the case, but the people behind it.
When he’s not busy helping clients, he enjoys spending time with his family and staying connected to his Texas roots. He’s an avid fisherman and rancher, and you’ll often find him cheering on his favorite football team.
Ziegler’s career is rooted in his dedication to his clients. Winning cases isn’t his only goal; he cares about protecting the people who design and build the spaces we live and work in. Whether he’s helping them through complex contracts, representing them in court, or helping them avoid future legal issues, his priority is making sure his clients can continue to do what they do best—creating, designing, and building with confidence.
By Chris Bates
