Workers Compensation Counsel Services

The City of Newark, New Jersey is seeking Workers Compensation Counsel Services through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for its Law Department. The procurement is specifically for legal representation on workers' compensation matters on an as-needed basis, with services encompassing preparation of pleadings, motions, discovery documents, deposition attendance, settlement conferences, and trial participation. Qualified legal firms must demonstrate expertise in workers' compensation law and a proven track record of cases tried in New Jersey state and federal courts. The contract term is for one year, running from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024, with electronic submissions accepted through the City's e-Procurement Portal until 10:15 am on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. Evaluation criteria will include the respondent's experience and reputation, knowledge of the City's Law Department, availability, government experience, local presence, commitment to diversity, and other factors deemed in the best interest of the City. The compensation structure is a blended hourly rate of $150.00 per hour, inclusive of overhead and secretarial costs, with additional expenses to be negotiated separately.

The RFQ indicates a commitment to diversity and local economic participation, though no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly detailed. Respondents must submit several required documents, including a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate, proof of insurance, employee information reports, and various disclosure forms related to affirmative action, pay-to-play regulations, and investment activities. The City reserves the right to modify, amend, suspend, or terminate the procurement process at its sole discretion, with no liability to respondents for incurred costs. While no specific budget range is provided, the hourly rate structure suggests a flexible, as-needed engagement model that will depend on the volume of workers' compensation legal services required. Potential respondents must demonstrate comprehensive legal expertise, local familiarity, and a commitment to ethical and transparent procurement practices to be considered for this contract opportunity.