Inside the Deal: A Live Construction Contract Negotiation
Every successful construction project begins long before the first shovel hits the ground—it begins at the negotiation table.
In this one-of-a-kind interactive session, attendees will watch a real estate developer and a general contractor negotiate the terms of a construction contract in real time, each represented by experienced legal counsel. Rather than simply discussing contract provisions, our panelists will demonstrate how seasoned professionals navigate competing priorities, manage risk, and structure agreements that set projects up for success.
Whether you're an attorney, developer, contractor, architect, engineer, planner, or owner, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of how contracts are negotiated, why certain provisions matter, and how thoughtful deal-making can prevent costly disputes long before construction begins.
Ted Edwards (Panelist)
Founder, Cornerstone Legal Counsel
Ted Edwards is the founder of Cornerstone Legal Counsel, where he advises businesses, developers, contractors, and project stakeholders on complex commercial and construction matters. A nationally recognized construction attorney, certified mediator, and trusted strategic advisor, Ted has built his career helping clients navigate the legal and business challenges that arise throughout the life of a project—from contract formation and risk management to dispute resolution and litigation.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Ted has represented owners, contractors, developers, design professionals, and businesses in high-stakes construction and commercial disputes. Known for his practical, business-oriented approach, he helps clients evaluate risk, negotiate favorable outcomes, and resolve conflicts efficiently while protecting long-term project success. His extensive experience at both the negotiation table and in the courtroom provides a unique perspective on the contractual decisions that shape successful developments.
A graduate of Duke University School of Law, Ted is a certified mediator and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for his work in Commercial Litigation. Beyond his legal practice, he is deeply committed to advancing the profession and expanding access to justice. He previously served as Vice Chair of the North Carolina Interest on Lawyers' Trust Accounts (NC IOLTA) Board of Trustees, helping strengthen civil legal aid across the state. Through Cornerstone Legal Counsel, Ted continues to provide strategic legal counsel while mentoring the next generation of legal professionals and business leaders.
Robert Preston Brown (Panelist)
Mediator, Arbitrator & Consultant, Stanton Brown Consultants
Robert Preston Brown is one of the nation's most respected construction law professionals, bringing more than three decades of experience spanning private practice, in-house leadership, academia, and alternative dispute resolution. Today, he serves as a mediator, arbitrator, and consultant with Stanton Brown Consultants, where he helps resolve complex construction and commercial disputes throughout the United States.
Throughout his distinguished career, Robert has served as General Counsel for one of the nation's largest mechanical contractors and previously held executive legal leadership positions with a Fortune 500 global construction and engineering company. Earlier in his career, he practiced construction litigation and arbitration, served as a federal judicial law clerk, and taught law as an adjunct professor. This breadth of experience has given him an exceptional understanding of construction projects from every perspective—including owners, contractors, engineers, lawyers, and business executives.
A Fellow of the American College of Construction Lawyers and an active leader within the American Bar Association Forum on Construction Law, Robert is widely recognized for his expertise in construction contracts, dispute prevention, mediation, and arbitration. His career has been devoted to helping industry professionals successfully navigate risk while keeping projects—and relationships—moving forward.
Tony Small (Panelist)
Founder & Member-Manager, Davidson Construction, LLC
Tony Small is the founder and member-manager of Davidson Construction, LLC, a North Carolina-based commercial and residential general contracting firm known for delivering quality craftsmanship, collaborative project management, and client-focused service. Since establishing the company in 2008, Tony has grown Davidson Construction from a commercial contracting business into a respected builder of commercial facilities, custom homes, renovations, and complex construction projects throughout the region.
Tony believes every successful project begins with strong communication, careful planning, and trusted relationships. His leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration with clients throughout every phase of construction—from early planning and budgeting through project completion—to ensure that each project reflects both the client's vision and the highest standards of quality. This practical, hands-on approach has become a hallmark of Davidson Construction's reputation.
With nearly two decades of experience managing projects, coordinating construction teams, and balancing schedule, cost, and quality, Tony brings the contractor's perspective to every negotiation. His experience transforming contracts into successful projects makes him an invaluable voice in conversations about how effective negotiation lays the foundation for successful construction.
Bobby Drakeford (Panelist)
Founder & Development Director, The Drakeford Company
Bobby Drakeford is a real estate developer, attorney, entrepreneur, and former North Carolina legislator whose career sits at the intersection of development, law, finance, and public policy. As founder of The Drakeford Company, he leads residential, mixed-use, and urban infill development projects throughout the Charlotte region, specializing in land acquisition, site assembly, project planning, and community-focused investment.
Before launching his development company, Bobby built a successful career in commercial real estate and finance, bringing a comprehensive understanding of every stage of the development process—from identifying opportunities and structuring transactions to navigating legal, governmental, and community considerations. His multidisciplinary background allows him to evaluate projects not only through a legal lens, but also through the practical realities developers face when bringing projects from concept to completion.
Bobby's commitment to community development extends beyond private industry. He previously served in the North Carolina House of Representatives, where he contributed his experience in business and development to state policymaking. His unique combination of legal training, development expertise, and public leadership offers valuable insight into how successful projects are negotiated, financed, and ultimately built.
