Effective counsel should engage a consulting expert immediately upon the discovery of a defect on a project, the benefits of which include providing cost-effective representation that saves the client money and minimizes risk. A consulting expert can provide counsel and the client with creative solutions to address defects, thereby reducing remediation costs, litigation costs and any direct or indirect damages. Each of these reasons supports retaining a consulting expert early on in order to enhance the client's overall prospects for a successful outcome both with respect to the integrity of the project and the resolution of any disputes.