35290_May_4_26_solicitation_doc.pdf

This is a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by the Connecticut Department of Correction seeking qualified organizations to provide legal assistance services through the Inmate Legal Assistance Program (ILAP) for incarcerated individuals in the department's thirteen correctional facilities. The program will deliver pre-packaged legal form packages, paralegal support under attorney supervision, family law seminars at each facility annually, federal habeas corpus assistance under 28 U.S.C. § 2254, and limited services for Connecticut inmates housed in other states, with no requirement for actual legal representation or court appearances. The solicitation opened March 5, 2026, with a Letter of Intent due March 20, 2026. A vendor question and answer period runs from March 26 through April 3, 2026. Proposals are due April 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM EDT. The anticipated contract start date is July 1, 2026, with an initial two-year term and three optional one-year renewals at the Department's discretion. Inquiries should be directed to Maria Antoniou at 860-692-6837 or Maria.Antoniou@ct.gov.

Eligible proposers must employ at least one full-time Connecticut-licensed attorney and one attorney admitted to the United States District Court, provide audited financial statements or financial documentation demonstrating solvency, and submit detailed budgets with all startup costs identified and staffing plans demonstrating efficient personnel utilization. The program is open to private nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, and state agencies with preference given to those with a proven history of providing similar services and demonstrated financial stability. No fees may be assessed to inmates, and services must exclude assistance to inmates already represented by public defenders or assigned counsel. The total funding amount and specific contract cost have not been determined and remain contingent upon state budget appropriations. Evaluation will assess organizational profile (10%), scope of services (20%), staffing plan (10%), data and technology capabilities (10%), work plan (15%), financial profile (10%), budget and narrative (15%), and compliance with required appendices (10%).