Legal Services
Introduction
The Legal Services Framework, managed by the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO), is a comprehensive national solution designed to facilitate public sector organisations in accessing a broad spectrum of legal services across the United Kingdom. This framework, which is set to conclude on the 31st of August, 2024, is structured to simplify the procurement process, enabling contracting authorities to efficiently engage with legal service providers. As a framework agreement rather than a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), it provides a pre-defined roster of suppliers within various legal specialisations.
Context & Use Case
This framework encompasses twelve distinct categories, known as lots, each representing different areas of legal expertise. Public sector bodies, ranging from local councils to health authorities and educational institutions, utilise this framework to obtain expert legal advice and representation. The framework is particularly beneficial for contracting authorities seeking a streamlined and compliant route to secure professional legal services. By pre-selecting suppliers through a rigorous tendering process, the framework assures quality and compliance, offering a reliable mechanism for addressing diverse legal needs efficiently.
Scope of Services
The Legal Services Framework covers a wide array of legal disciplines. Some of the typical services offered include: 1. Commercial and Corporate Law 2. Property and Real Estate Law 3. Employment Law 4. Public Law and Administrative Law 5. Litigation and Dispute Resolution 6. Intellectual Property Law 7. Environmental and Planning Law 8. Health and Social Care Law 9. Education Law 10. Regulatory Law 11. Procurement and Contract Law 12. Data Protection and Information Law This categorisation allows contracting authorities to select the most suitable legal expertise based on their specific requirements, ensuring that they receive tailored and effective legal support.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to a diverse range of legal service providers who meet the necessary criteria established by NEPO. Typically, these include law firms of varying sizes and specialisations equipped to handle public sector legal matters. Unlike a DPS, which allows for ongoing applications, this framework requires suppliers to have been pre-approved through an initial selection process. However, suppliers looking to participate should prepare for future opportunities when the framework is renewed or a similar framework is established.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers benefit significantly from using the Legal Services Framework due to several advantages. Primarily, it offers a compliant procurement route, reducing the administrative burden associated with traditional tender processes. The framework ensures a rapid speed to market, enabling buyers to engage suppliers quickly when legal issues arise. Furthermore, the framework fosters competition among pre-approved suppliers, often leading to more competitive pricing and enhanced service quality. By providing a structured approach to procurement, it assists buyers in achieving value for money and ensuring legal compliance.
Lots
Not applicable
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in engaging with this framework or preparing for future opportunities should carefully review the specific requirements and criteria outlined by NEPO. For further information, direct contact with the contracting authority is recommended to gain insights into the framework's operation and potential future procurement exercises.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable offers support to suppliers by enabling them to discover relevant frameworks and procurement opportunities, such as the Legal Services Framework. Our resources assist in the preparation and submission of applications, ensuring that suppliers are well-equipped to meet the demands of public sector procurement. Additionally, we provide valuable insights into upcoming frameworks, helping suppliers maintain a visible and proactive pipeline strategy.