OPD Contract Attorney

The Montana Office of State Public Defender (OPD) is seeking qualified private attorneys to provide contract legal representation in criminal and civil matters statewide through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) identified as OPD-RFP/RFQ-2020-0079. The procurement opportunity, posted on March 25, 2020, and running through March 25, 2022, requires interested attorneys to submit a comprehensive application package including a completed form, current resume, writing sample, proof of professional liability insurance, and most recent Continuing Legal Education (CLE) transcript. Attorneys must maintain an active or recently expired Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with OPD and be prepared to provide legal services classified under commodity code 3920. Qualified attorneys will be expected to represent clients in various legal proceedings, demonstrating professional competence and adherence to public defender standards. The primary contact for this opportunity is Brett Schandelson, reachable at Brett.Schandelson@mt.gov or +1 406-523-5142, who will oversee the procurement process and potential attorney selections.

The RFQ does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. No incumbent vendors or specific contract award values are explicitly mentioned in the procurement documentation. Attorneys must independently complete and upload the required documentation through the state's procurement system, indicating a competitive selection process based on professional qualifications. While the document does not specify a precise budget range, it suggests that selected contract attorneys will be compensated for providing legal representation services across Montana. The opportunity appears open to qualified private attorneys who can meet the professional standards and documentation requirements outlined in the solicitation. Interested attorneys must carefully review the RFQ requirements and ensure they have all necessary documentation, including current professional liability insurance and a comprehensive professional background demonstrating capability in public defense work.