J. Nathan Cole

I am the founding partner of Cole Law Partners, P.C., and a trial attorney and seasoned litigator with offices in Boston, MetroWest and Providence, focusing on construction disputes, commercial lease issues, construction defect cases (commercial and residential), delay claims, Prompt Pay Act claims, cumulative impact claims, business litigation, non-disclosure and non-compete agreements, mechanic’s liens, employment disputes, shareholder conflicts, insurance disputes, and personal injury cases. With extensive experience as a negotiator and advocate, I represent plaintiffs and defendants in litigation, contract negotiations, partnership disputes, and claims against insurance brokers, assisting clients with employment, contract, and construction-related matters.

My priority is delivering exceptional service, working closely with clients to secure victories in court or negotiate robust, favorable contract terms. I am committed to promptly returning calls and emails, treating every case with the respect and attention it deserves.

Notable Victories

• October 20204: Prevailed on a Motion for Summary Judgment in a real estate dispute, successfully arguing that an option agreement regarding the sale of land was too vague to be enforced against my clients.
• December 2024: Convinced the Superior Court to vacate an arbitrator’s award for my client, overturning an unfavorable decision tied to the Massachusetts Prompt Pay Act. This win showcased my skill in challenging arbitration outcomes in complex disputes.
• January 2024: Secured a major victory for a subcontractor in a construction dispute, featured in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. Facing a general contractor withholding over $700,000, I argued full performance and Prompt Pay Act violations, overcoming procedural and contractual defenses. After a multi-day arbitration, my client prevailed on its change order claim for lost productivity.
• March 2022: Won summary judgment in U.S. District Court for a subcontractor sued for $15M over a liquidated damages clause. I proved the clause was unenforceable, enabling counterclaims for unpaid work. This was the cover story in the March 25, 2022 Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly.
• June 2018: Dissolved a mechanic’s lien in Massachusetts Superior Court, arguing improper recording under G.L. c. 254 due to contract discrepancies. This homeowner win was the cover story in the June 25, 2018 Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly.
• Recent Jury Trial: Defended a snowplow company in Middlesex Superior Court against a slip-and-fall claim during a blizzard. I argued reasonable care with six trucks plowing, and the jury returned a defense verdict in under an hour.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiated a deal for Polkadog Bakery, securing monthly social media promotions from a “Real Housewives” star’s foundation for pet treat donations, reaching millions of followers.
• Secured millions in settlement for construction workers and others injured on jobsites, car accidents and catastrophic personal injury matters.

Approach

With a proven track record in and out of the courtroom, I craft protective contracts for clients—from residential to commercial construction—using my trial expertise. In litigation, I am a focused, prepared, and tenacious advocate.

Awards and Recognitions

• Preeminent AV Rating, Martindale-Hubbell
• Massachusetts Super Lawyers, 2013–2025 (Boston Magazine)
• Perfect “10” Rating, Avvo
• Best Lawyers in America, 2020–2025 (Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation)
• Top Lawyers for Construction Law, Boston Magazine, 2022, 2024 & 2025

Leadership and Speaking

I hold leadership roles in the Massachusetts Defense Lawyers Association where I am currently serving on the Executive Committee and Chair, Construction Law Committee. I am the past Chair of the International Association of Defense Counsel's Construction Law and Litigation Committee and am active in the Massachusetts and Boston Bar Associations. A frequent speaker, I’ve lectured at law schools, MCLE, and the National Institute for Trial Advocacy on topics like construction safety, negotiating construction contracts, Chapter 93A, and blockchain’s legal impact (IADC 2022 Mid-Year Meeting).