Matthew H. Mues

Counsel

Matt Mues is an experienced complex commercial litigation attorney, with a particular area of focus on construction law and litigation. He has been involved in some of the largest construction litigation cases in the Pacific Northwest and has advised clients throughout the United States on construction issues. Matt strives to achieve cost-effective solutions for his clients and mitigate issues before they develop into bigger problems. When litigation is necessary, Matt is resolute in his commitment to understanding the details of the case and developing a comprehensive strategy to achieve the best result for his clients.

He has handled matters relating to contract development and disputes; liens; construction defects and design defects; land use and zoning; work site injuries; acceleration and delay; wrongful termination; differing site conditions; and insurance coverage and tenders.

Matt has been the lead attorney in numerous complex, multi-party litigation cases, including construction cases involving high rises, schools, hospitals, land developments, resorts, commercial buildings, care facilities, multi-family complexes, and residential homes and properties. He has represented owners, developers, general contractors, subcontractors, and design professionals.

Recovery of $13M+ for hospital in construction defect case

Lead attorney for hospital in complex, multi-party construction defect flooring case, leading to a global settlement in excess of $13 million for the hospital for the cost of repair, plus loss of use and attorney fees and costs.

Resolution of claim against retirement facility

Lead attorney for retirement facility in resolving 7-figure claim brought by the general contractor relating to post-tension concrete slab deflection; the facility paid nothing and recovered damages from its design team.

Defended manufacturer in SeaTac airport arbitration

Part of three-attorney team that defended steel manufacturer against claims brought by general contractor in $80 million arbitration involving the SeaTac airport.

Defended general contractor in $8M school case*

Lead attorney for general contractor in Lake Oswego High School litigation in Lake Oswego, Oregon, a suburb of Portland, wherein the School District sought over $8 million in damages.

Defended general contractor in $10M condominium case*

Lead litigation attorney for the general contractor of a 96-unit condominium complex, wherein the plaintiff sought in excess of $10 million dollars and claims were asserted on behalf of the general contractor against 49 third-party defendants, including subcontractors and design professionals.

*Denotes an attorney's experience prior to joining Davis Wright Tremaine

Admitted to Practice

Oregon, 2004
Utah, 2013
Washington, 2015
U.S. District Court, District of Oregon, 2010
U.S. District Court, District of Utah, 2013

Education

J.D., University of Oregon School of Law, 2004
- Associate Editor, Oregon Law Review
B.A., English Literature, University of Montana, 2000

Memberships & Affiliations

- Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA)

Professional Recognition

- Named one of the "Best Lawyers in America" in Construction Law by Best Lawyers, 2024-present
- Selected to "Oregon Rising Stars" for Construction Litigation, Thomson Reuters, 2010-2018

Background

- Director of Operations of Two Successful Start-Ups: 2016-2020
- Partner, 2009-2016; Associate, 2005-2009 — Blunck & Walhood, LLC
- Associate, Hershner Hunter, LLP, 2004-2005