Legal Services

The Commonwealth of Kentucky's Justice and Public Safety Cabinet is requesting proposals for legal services to defend the state in federal litigation, with proposals due October 15, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The central scope is legal representation in Jamiahia Kennedy et al. v. Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, et al., filed in United States District Court, Western District of Kentucky (Civil Action No. 1:24-CV-00016-GNS), a class action alleging constitutional and statutory violations by detained juveniles under 42 USC 1983, the ADA/Rehabilitation Act, and state law negligence.

Multiple contracts may be awarded from this RFP. The initial contract term runs November 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028, with potential renewal for additional two-year periods as necessary to conclude pending cases, subject to Secretary of Finance and Administration Cabinet approval and Legislative Research Commission Government Contract Review Committee approval.

Evaluation uses a 1,200-point maximum: 800 points for technical merit, 200 points for cost, and up to 200 points for oral presentations if required. Technical criteria emphasize relevant experience defending state and local governments in Section 1983 claims in federal court, complex civil litigation and class action defense capability, e-discovery and document management proficiency, organizational capacity with identified personnel, conflict-of-interest identification and resolution processes, and professional liability insurance with minimum limits of $1 million per claim. Cost proposals must include hourly rates capped at $125 per hour for partners, $100 per hour for associates, and $40 per hour for paralegals under GCRC fee schedule; offerors may propose discounts or blended rates. Reimbursable expenses are limited to GCRC-authorized categories, including travel per GCRC policy.

Successful contractors must maintain Commercial General Liability Insurance with minimum limits of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate, Professional Liability Insurance with minimum limits of $1 million per claim, and proof of Kentucky Secretary of State registration. Written questions are due September 22, 2026, with Commonwealth responses anticipated by September 29, 2026. No offeror's conference has been scheduled. Contractors must comply with KRS 45A, Kentucky procurement regulations, nondiscrimination provisions, conflict-of-interest laws, tax and employment law compliance disclosures, and artificial intelligence policy requirements.