Janette Leonidou has extensive knowledge and experience in construction law, representing owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in a variety of disputes. She has litigated countless complex public and private work projects throughout California and has extensive litigation experience in wide-ranging business disputes.

Janette additionally provides pre-litigation services including contract preparation, contract review and negotiation and advice prior to and during construction to minimize the likelihood of litigation. She is also largely recognized for her unique ability to resolve difficult and contentious cases. Her tenacity, combined with her creative approach to negotiation and settlement, has resulted in consistently positive outcomes in many cases where resolution seemed impossible.

Janette has successfully litigated before state and federal trial courts and appellate courts, arbitration panels, administrative boards, and administrative law judges. She has also argued many legal issues related to projects, both pre-and post-bid, before cities, counties, and other public entities.

In addition to providing legal services on construction-related disputes, Janette serves as an instructor, teaching several classes a year to the construction industry on managing legal issues for complex projects. She is a highly in-demand speaker for various trade and industry groups on subjects such as claims documentation, prompt payment statutes and procedures, construction contract issues and recent legal developments.

Areas of Focus

Credentials

Education

  • University of California - Hastings College of the Law (J.D.)
  • University of Nevada, Reno (B.A.)

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • California

Court Admissions

  • U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California

Recognitions

  • Fortune Magazine, "Women Leaders in the Law," 2015
  • Northern California Super Lawyers, 2009-2026

Professional Activities

  • Monterey County Bar Association (MCBA)
  • San Mateo County Bar Association (SMCBA)
  • Santa Clara County Bar Association
  • The Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF)
  • United Contractors, Legal Advisor

Community Involvement

  • The Hellenic Law Society of California
  • The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County