New Trial Judge Orientation (2026 – 2031)

The Maryland Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) is seeking proposals for a comprehensive facility to host the annual New Trial Judge Orientation from 2026 to 2031. The procurement solicits a secure, ADA-compliant venue within 50 miles of Annapolis to accommodate approximately 60 attendees, including 45 judicial appointees, 10 staff, 2 program coordinators, and 7 faculty for a retreat-style training event. The required facility must provide single occupancy overnight accommodations, multiple meeting spaces with audiovisual equipment, formal dining areas, business and fitness centers, and secured storage. Specific event dates are predetermined for mid-November each year, running Sunday through Friday, with the first event scheduled for November 15-20, 2026. Evaluation criteria will prioritize site visit compliance with RFP requirements, followed by pricing and overall response quality. Proposals are due by September 10, 2025, with shortlisted offerors required to facilitate site visits including space tours, audiovisual demonstrations, and catering tastings. The contract includes comprehensive requirements such as meal provisions with special dietary accommodations, on-site parking, dedicated event coordination, and compliance with current State of Maryland and Judiciary COVID protocols.

The solicitation encourages participation from businesses registered with Maryland's Department of Assessments and Taxation, with opportunities for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Veteran Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) certified organizations. Bidders must complete standard procurement documentation including a Contract Affidavit, Bid/Proposal Affidavit, and Non-Disclosure Agreement, demonstrating compliance with state business and legal requirements. The contract structure includes a base year in 2026 with five potential one-year renewal options, allowing for consistent annual programming. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive pricing form suggests a multi-year contract with standardized annual service requirements. Contractors must meet strict qualifications, including maintaining good standing with state authorities, having no outstanding tax obligations, and passing background checks related to criminal convictions, bribery, and potential debarment. The procurement emphasizes flexibility, allowing for potential attendee count adjustments up to two weeks before each event, reflecting the dynamic nature of judicial appointments in Maryland.