Welcome & Overview  (10 MINUTES)
– Thomas J. Radio, Course Chair

Doing Business with the Government: Opportunities and Pitfalls  (45 MINUTES)
Pursuing government contracting may not be the right decision for every business. But the opportunities can be significant. Is the business willing to learn and follow the rules relating to acquisitions? Is it willing to do ongoing, detailed research to find procurement opportunities and take the time to prepare and present offers? Can the business financially support the performance of a government contract that may involve significant start-up costs? Is the business willing to be a subcontractor to companies that are prime contractors? What are some tips for marketing the business to government purchasers?  This session will explore these questions and more!
– Robert T. Dube Jr. & Jared M. Reams

Challenging a Government Contract Award and Unraveling the Bid Protest Process  (60 MINUTES)
A bid protest is a remedy that allows contractors to challenge a government contract award. This panel discussion will unravel the bid protest process and provide helpful tips for prevailing in these matters. Topics include:

• Types and timeframes involved for filing a bid protest
• What to expect in terms of protest procedures, written submissions, and hearings
• Protective orders
• Common protest arguments and how to use them to your advantage
• The standard required to prevail in protests

– James R. Cownie, Betsy B. Hayes, Alexander P. Hontos & Robert J. Huber
– Thomas J. Radio (moderator)

Analyzing Standard Government Contract Clauses and Their Implications as Contract Building Blocks  (60 MINUTES)
Unlike commercial contracting – where the buyers and sellers have a great deal of flexibility in developing terms and conditions – in state and federal government contracting, there are clauses mandated by statutes and regulations that neither the contracting officer, nor the contractor has the flexibility to omit or change. Many times, these clauses are incorporated by reference only, rather than spelled out. This session will provide an overview of the major standard state and federal government contract terms and conditions. Learn what these standard clauses say, what they mean, their effect, and what you can do to minimize risks for your clients.
– Nena M. Lenz

Strategies for Reducing Conflicts in the Administration of State Government Contracts  (30 MINUTES)
Successful government contract administration ensures that both parties fulfill their contractual obligations, as well as adapt to changing circumstances. No matter which side of the contract you’re on – government official or vendor – a firm grasp of contract procedures and legal requirements is essential for sound contract management. This session will provide guidance on all phases of the contract administration process. Topics include:

• Interpreting contract terms accurately
• Managing differing site conditions
• Renegotiating terms to reflect changes
• Making price adjustments
• Resolving disputes without litigation
• Ensuring prompt, full payment
• Terminating contracts   

– Rachel L. Dougherty & Elizabeth M. Randa

Suing the Government – Claims and Disputes in Government Contracts  (45 MINUTES)
This session will provide a roadmap for navigating the complicated process of pursuing contract claims against both the Federal Government and the State of Minnesota. We begin with an overview of the core concepts underlying all litigation against government entities, followed by a detailed discussion of the procedures governing claims against the Federal Government under the Contract Disputes Act. We will also address the process for bringing contract claims against the State and we will conclude by discussing the possibilities for negotiation and settlement of government contract disputes. Learn best practices and helpful tips regarding how to start a claim, how to avoid roadblocks, and how best to reach a successful resolution of your dispute.
– Mark J. Blando

Promoting Equity and Inclusion in the State Contract Procurement Process  (30 MINUTES)
Explore how the State of Minnesota is working to promote equity and inclusion in its contracting practices. Learn the legal considerations as well as an overview of the tools, techniques and statutory authorities the State utilizes to remove traditional barriers for businesses that experience underutilization. 
– Igbal O. Mohammed

Breaking Down the Labor & Employment Issues Facing Government Contractors  (30 MINUTES)
State and federal government contractors and subcontractors face unique legal and business challenges. Government contractors must not only operate within the constraints of standard employment statutes, but also follow the law under an additional layer of scrutiny. This session will discuss some of the federal and state labor and employment laws and regulations and data responsibilities that should be considered when pricing and performing a government contract. Learn how to advise your clients on minimizing risks and uncertainty and maintaining compliance with regulations specific to winning and keeping government contracts. 
– Scott M. Lepak

Navigating the False Claims Act: Protecting Your Client’s Business, Whistleblowers, and Tax Dollars  (30 MINUTES)
Fraud against the Government is still a pervasive problem and extends widely across industries. Government contractors are vulnerable to fraud claims against them and may be in a position to identify competitors whose fraud hurts their own business. Thus, understanding the ins and outs of the State and Federal False Claims Acts (FCA) and their qui tam and retaliation provisions enhances your ability to advise clients about their options. This session will explore the latest trends in FCA enforcement actions and associated litigation and will provide best practices for advising your government contract clients on how to avoid FCA liability.
– Susan M. Coler

Intellectual Property in Government Contracts – A Survivor’s Guide for Small Business Clients  (30 MINUTES)
Intellectual property is often a company’s most valuable asset. When developed and/or used as part of a government contract, IP rights generally are determined by standard government contract clauses imposed by regulation. However, successfully navigating those regulations is no easy task, and missteps or lack of preparation can result in disclosure of IP to the government and rival government contractors. This session will address common intellectual property issues with respect to government contracts and the interaction between subcontractors and prime contractors. This session will cover how making the right decisions early is critical to preserve a company’s IP when the government is a customer.
– Chad G. Clark

$245

Other discounts that may apply:

• Season Pass Discount
• On Demand Bundle Discount
• New Lawyer Discount

Scholarships available!
Need-based scholarships are available for in-person and online seminars. For further information or to obtain a scholarship application, contact us at 800-759-8840 or customerservice@minncle.org.

Minnesota CLE is applying to the Minnesota State Board of CLE for 6.0 standard CLE credits. The maximum number of total credits attendees may claim for this program is 6.0 credits.

Depending on the jurisdiction in which you practice, you may or may not be able to claim credit for viewing this on demand seminar. Please check with your licensing agency for accreditation information.