Chris Lyman represents clients in a wide variety of matters, with particular focus on the construction and real estate development industries. He represents owners, developers, sellers/buyers, contractors, suppliers, engineers, architects and other professionals in all phases of projects, from contract negotiations to dispute resolution. Chris has assisted clients in construction projects of virtually all types, from single-family homes to high-rise condominium buildings, office buildings, resorts, shopping centers, roads and bridges. Chris helps clients successfully avoid and resolve disputes by providing early analysis and strategies for resolving conflicts. When necessary, Chris has represented clients in mediations, arbitrations and litigation at all levels of state and federal courts, often working closely with engineering and design professionals. Additionally, he advises clients on insurance coverage issues related to these areas, often obtaining insurance coverage for clients for property damage, third party liability claims, and other losses.

Chris is a LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional), a distinction he earned through the Green Building Certification Institute. As a LEED AP, he has a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles, as well as the LEED Rating System. He was the second attorney in western North Carolina to earn this credential, and one of the few in the state. He also holds a general contractor's license from the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Among his recent cases, Chris successfully defended the owner/builder/seller of a large hotel in a multimillion dollar lawsuit filed by the purchaser of the hotel asserting construction defect and other claims. Chris obtained summary judgment early in the case in favor of the client on the construction defect claims and obtained insurance coverage for the client on the remaining claims.

In another case, Chris represented the owners of a large contracting firm in a multi-party lawsuit in which his client sought payment for construction of a multimillion dollar state prison. Chris successfully negotiated a settlement of the matter for nearly full payment, thereby avoiding years of protracted litigation.

Chris has also successfully resolved disputes for clients concerning boundaries, road maintenance, adverse possession, and a wide variety of real estate issues.

Chris is actively involved in numerous construction industry organizations. He is a member of the Construction Law Council of the North Carolina Bar Association and is a board member of the Asheville Home Builders Association. He serves on the Board of Advisors of the Western Carolina University School of Construction Management, where he has lectured on construction and development topics. He is also a member of the Historic Resources Commission of Asheville and Buncombe County.