Hamilton Duncan is a full-service law firm that has been serving the Fraser Valley community since 1959.
SURREY – In the complex world of construction law, having an advocate on your side who knows the local landscape and is passionate about its future can offer confidence and calm in high-stakes disagreements. That is how Steven Shergill, litigator at Hamilton Duncan, carved a niche for himself as an invaluable asset to clients facing construction and commercial disputes.
“Dispute resolution has always been an interest of mine and something that I have always leaned toward in my life – being a mediator and problem-solver,” says Shergill.
Steven Shergill, litigator at Hamilton Duncan
“The reason that I shifted my litigation practice to the Fraser Valley was that I wanted to be able to use my skills and strengths within the community I live in. I am a people person and I prioritize getting to know my clients on a personal level so that I can wholeheartedly advocate for my clients’ best interests.”
Hamilton Duncan is a full-service law firm based in Surrey, BC, and one of the largest, respected law firms in the Fraser Valley. Since 1959, Hamilton Duncan has helped businesses, institutions, and individuals throughout the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley achieve their goals and objectives by providing experienced, innovative and superior legal services.
Born and raised in Surrey, Shergill articled for the City of Surrey after law school and then worked in local government law. Prior to Hamilton Duncan, Shergill was at a large international firm practicing in the areas of construction and infrastructure disputes. Shergill joined Hamilton Duncan in August of 2023 and since then has been focused on, construction litigation, commercial disputes, debt collection and foreclosure matters.
“Construction disputes encompasses a wide variety of issues. Some common issues we see in construction disputes are builders lien matters, defects and deficiencies claims, and delay claims. I work on any side of those disputes; a lot of times we are working for the general contractor or the sub-contractor, and other times it is the owner of a property,” says Shergill.
“I also work in both insured and uninsured claims. In terms of commercial disputes, I handle many contract disputes, shareholder disputes, and misrepresentation claims. With respect to debt-collection and foreclosure matters, we work with various institutions to assist with their claims.”
Shergill felt compelled to leave the international firm setting and be a part of the positive development progression the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley require.
“Hamilton Duncan is one of the most well-established firms south of the Fraser River; it’s been around for 65 years. With that support I am able to make a difference here and help facilitate the growth that we need in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.”
The construction industry has faced a tumultuous few years, with skyrocketing costs and geopolitical fluctuations. Most notably, Shergill sees a recent rise in builder claims and delay claims. Additionally, he notices abandonment claims on the rise, with general contractors abandoning projects when they are no longer economically viable. Additionally, foreclosures of venture projects are frequent challenges in the industry.
While litigation is a key focus, Shergill advocates for alternative dispute resolution methods when appropriate, aiming for efficient and cost-effective solutions. His tenacious advocacy in and out of court, combined with a diplomatic approach, has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor.
“I try to resolve matters in the most efficient way possible, and hopefully prior to having to go to court,” says Shergill. “I try to handle things in a very strategic and efficient manner, and I am always there to guide my clients through their everyday challenges.”
By Tyler Nyquvest
