Professional Bio
Steven Swanson represents architects, engineers, contractors, and developers in complex construction disputes, with a particular focus on design professional liability and construction defect litigation. A former licensed architect, Mr. Swanson brings firsthand design and construction experience to his legal practice, allowing him to evaluate claims involving alleged design and construction defects with a level of technical precision that most litigators cannot match.
Before entering the legal profession, Mr. Swanson practiced as a licensed architect, performing all phases of architectural design and construction administration on educational and transportation projects. That experience informs his approach to litigation today. He understands how buildings are actually designed, coordinated, and constructed, and he uses that knowledge to challenge plaintiff expert opinions, analyze standard of care issues, and develop practical, defensible case strategies for his clients.
Mr. Swanson has more than 25 years of experience representing architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and owners in construction-related disputes. His practice includes the defense of construction defect claims, design error and omission claims, and the prosecution and defense of mechanics lien and payment disputes. He has handled matters through all phases of litigation, including trial and arbitration, and works closely with clients and insurers to achieve efficient, cost-effective resolutions consistent with project realities and risk exposure.
Prior to joining Higgins, Hopkins, McLain & Roswell, LLC, Mr. Swanson was a partner at multiple civil litigation firms, where he led construction law practices and focused extensively on the defense of design professionals and construction industry participants. His career has been dedicated to construction law, providing him with deep, industry-specific experience across a wide range of project types and claim scenarios.
Bar Admissions
- State of Colorado, 2016 to present
- U.S. District Court for Colorado, 2016 to present
- United States Supreme Court, 2017 to present
- State of Wisconsin, 2000 to present, inactive
- State of Illinois, 2000 to 2022
Professional Activities
- Member, Colorado Defense Lawyers Association
- Member, Jefferson Society of lawyer-architects