Summary of Inmate Legal Assistance Program RFP

This Specifications document is part of Request for Proposals #35290 issued by the Connecticut Department of Correction for the Inmate Legal Assistance Program (ILAP). The program seeks qualified organizations to provide legal assistance services to approximately 11,049 incarcerated individuals across thirteen correctional facilities. Required services include pre-packaged legal form packages, paralegal support under attorney supervision, family law seminars at each facility at least annually, federal habeas corpus assistance under 28 U.S.C. § 2254, and limited services for Connecticut inmates housed in other states. The program does not require actual legal representation or court appearances. A Letter of Intent is due March 20, 2026, with a vendor question and answer period from March 26 through April 3, 2026, and proposals due April 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM EDT. The anticipated contract start date is July 1, 2026, with a two-year initial term and three optional one-year renewals at the Department's discretion.

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. Evaluation criteria include 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%). The program is open to private nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, and state agencies, with preference given to those with proven experience providing similar services and demonstrated financial stability. No specific set-asides for disadvantaged enterprises or restrictions limiting eligible respondents have been identified. The program may not assess fees to inmates, and services must exclude assistance to inmates already represented by public defenders or assigned counsel. Total funding and contract costs remain contingent upon state budget appropriations, and no incumbent vendor information has been disclosed.