Common use of Defense of Claims and Lawsuits Clause in Contracts

Defense of Claims and Lawsuits. 23.1. If any lawsuit or claim is filed by a third party (including but not limited to the Other Party’s contractors and subcontractors), arising out of trunk highway work performed pursuant to a valid work order issued under this MPC, the Other Party will, at the discretion of and upon the request of the State, tender the defense of such claims to the State or allow the State to participate in the defense of such claims. The Other Party will, however, be solely responsible for defending any lawsuit or claim, or any portion thereof, when the claim or cause of action asserted is based on its own acts or omissions in performing or supervising the work. The Other Party will not purport to represent the State in any litigation, settlement, or alternative dispute resolution process. The State will not be responsible for any judgment entered against the Other Party, and will not be bound by the terms of any settlement entered into by the Other Party except with the written approval of the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Transportation and pursuant to applicable law.