Protecting Subcontractor Rights Nationwide
Each year, courts across the country issue hundreds of rulings involving federal and state laws—as well as court-made (“case”) law—that directly impact subcontractors. Many of these decisions interpret critical subcontract provisions, including:
Pay-if-Paid Clauses
Hold-Harmless Agreements
Duty-to-Defend Provisions
No-Damages-for-Delay Clauses
Some rulings establish legal precedent that affects subcontractors well beyond their state borders.
What the SLDF Does
The ASA Subcontractors Legal Defense Fund (SLDF) plays a vital role in protecting subcontractor interests in these precedent-setting cases. The fund supports ASA’s legal efforts by providing resources for amicus curiae (“friend of the court”) briefs in appellate-level cases that have the potential to significantly shape subcontractor rights and contract law nationwide.
A History of Impact
Since its inception, the SLDF has been instrumental in securing major legal victories for subcontractors—beginning with the landmark 1997 case Wm. R. Clarke Corporation v. Safeco Ins., which prohibited pay-if-paid clauses in California.
The SLDF continues to make a meaningful impact today. To view recent cases — including the updated Oregon case noted in the SLDF Activity Report (Spoiler alert: We won!) — visit the ASA SLDF Activity Report.
Get Involved
Know of a legal matter that could set a precedent affecting subcontractors? ASA welcomes submissions for potential SLDF involvement.
Submit completed SLDF applications to:
📧 ASAOffice@asa-hq.com
Support the SLDF
DONATE TO THE SLDF HERE
Learn More
🔹 Click here to learn more about the SLDF Case Application Process
🔹 Click here to learn more about the SLDF