This handbook highlights the critical differences that frequently exist between the law applicable to state and local public works versus private works so that owners, contractors, subcontractors and design professionals can avoid the many pitfalls and surprises that can arise due to such differences. Although the law of each state or local jurisdiction may vary in its particulars, there are a number of common differences between the law applicable to public and private projects. Familiarity with such differences enables those providing legal advice to participants on public projects and the participants themselves to better understand and discern the particular requirements of their state or local jurisdiction and how it differs from those applicable to private construction projects.