Government Contracts

Our team represents contractors in all aspects of bid protests, including challenges to agency awards and the defense of awarded work. We regularly appear before the Government Accountability Office, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, agency tribunals, and state and federal courts. Our experience includes filing protests that are sustained or that prompt agencies to take corrective action that protects our clients’ competitive standing. We also assist awardees and agencies in defending procurement decisions and in resolving protests efficiently. In every matter, we focus on timely, strategic advocacy that preserves opportunities and supports successful contract performance.

When the government or a prime contractor overreaches or fails to meet its obligations, contractors often need to assert claims to protect their rights and recover added costs or time. Our team guides clients through every stage of this process, from identifying and evaluating potential claims to preparing and negotiating Requests for Equitable Adjustment and formal claims. When disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation, we represent clients in litigation before boards, courts, and agencies. Our approach is practical and business focused, helping clients preserve contract value and keep performance on track.

Allegations of fraud, whether brought by the government or by qui tam relators, present significant risk for contractors. These matters can involve substantial financial exposure, including treble damages and civil penalties, as well as the possibility of suspension or debarment. Our team assists clients in all phases of False Claims Act inquiries, from conducting internal investigations to responding to agency, OIG, and DOJ scrutiny. We also represent companies and individuals in federal court when allegations of fraud or misconduct arise. Our focus is on managing risk, containing issues quickly, and protecting the client’s ability to continue performing government work.

Government oversight of contractors continues to expand, and companies must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively when inquiries arise. A wide range of agencies conduct financial audits, performance reviews, and investigations into suspected fraud, waste, abuse, or other misconduct. Understanding the scope of an inquiry and the potential exposure is critical to protecting the company’s interests.

Our team represents clients in all types of audits, investigations, and government claims. We assist with routine and complex matters involving agencies such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency, Offices of Inspector General, the Defense Contract Management Agency, military investigative services, the Department of Justice, Congress, and other oversight bodies. Our work includes addressing technical questions, responding to government demands, managing sensitive investigations, and guiding clients through matters that may carry civil or criminal implications.

In every engagement, we help clients quickly assess the facts, understand the applicable standards, and develop a practical and efficient strategy for resolution that supports ongoing contract performance and minimizes business disruption.

We advise clients on every phase of the government contracting process, including identifying opportunities, developing prime and subcontracting strategies, preparing proposals, securing awards, and resolving issues that arise during contract performance. Our team also has extensive experience with cooperative agreements, grants, and other funding instruments across major federal agencies, as well as with state and international procurement regimes.

We help companies navigate the regulatory and contractual requirements that apply to government work, including cost accounting, cost allowability, reporting obligations, and voluntary or mandatory disclosures. Our work includes supporting public-private partnerships, privatization initiatives, research collaborations, cooperative agreements, and grant-funded projects. We focus on practical guidance that aligns compliance obligations with business goals.

Compliance Programs

Companies involved in federal contracts or subcontracts must implement a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and maintain a compliance program that fits the nature and size of their operations. We assist with designing and implementing these programs, including policies and procedures, training, and internal audit frameworks.

Contract Terminations

We have significant experience assisting contractors when the government terminates a contract for default or for convenience. Our team helps clients contest default terminations, negotiate settlements, and position their business for continuity and recovery.

Subcontracting and Teaming

We support clients in drafting, negotiating, and administering teaming agreements, joint ventures, and subcontracts. Our attorneys advise both prime contractors and subcontractors on partnership structures, compliance with set-aside requirements, and dispute resolution.

Country-of-Origin Requirements

Compliance with the Buy American Act and the Trade Agreements Act is essential for companies supplying goods to the government. We assist clients in analyzing country-of-origin obligations, pursuing waivers where appropriate, and obtaining final determinations from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Across all counseling matters, our focus is on providing clear, actionable guidance that helps clients compete effectively, maintain compliance, and perform successfully in the public sector.

Contractors face a growing range of actions that can trigger suspension or debarment, including conduct that is unrelated to the performance of a government contract. These proceedings pose significant business risk, making it essential to respond quickly, understand the agency’s concerns, and take steps that demonstrate present responsibility.

Our team assists clients in all phases of suspension and debarment matters. We help companies evaluate potential issues early, make appropriate disclosures, and implement corrective measures that may prevent a proceeding from being initiated. When action is already underway, we represent clients in discussions with agency officials and develop strategies to resolve concerns and support reinstatement.

We have assisted companies and individuals in matters involving a wide range of alleged offenses and have engaged with suspension and debarment officials across numerous federal agencies. Our focus is on protecting eligibility for government work and preserving long-term business opportunities.

Mergers and acquisitions offer significant growth opportunities, but they also carry unique compliance risks and potential liabilities associated with government contracts. Understanding these risks is critical to structuring transactions, evaluating deal value, and ensuring long-term success.

Our team advises clients on all aspects of government contract-related transactions. We help identify and address risks during due diligence, draft contract provisions tailored to the government contracting environment, and resolve Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) concerns. We have experience negotiating FOCI mitigation plans, obtaining and maintaining U.S. security clearances, and guiding clients through Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) reviews.

After a transaction, we assist with a seamless business transition, including retention of size status, contract novations, and continued compliance with applicable government requirements. Our goal is to help clients complete acquisitions with confidence and maintain uninterrupted government contract performance.

Our team advises clients on procurements conducted by state and local government agencies, helping them navigate complex rules and requirements with confidence. We have a strong track record of supporting clients through all phases of state and local projects, from identifying opportunities and preparing proposals to managing performance and resolving disputes. Our approach focuses on practical guidance and strategic advocacy to ensure successful outcomes in the public sector at every level.

Our team helps small businesses navigate the unique requirements and opportunities of the federal marketplace, as well as assists larger companies seeking to partner with or invest in small enterprises. We guide clients through all aspects of small business participation, including securing regulatory certifications under the Small Business Administration’s size and socioeconomic programs, obtaining approval for the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program, and defending against challenges such as suspension or revocation of size certifications. We also handle SBA size protests and appeals.

Whether representing small businesses or their larger partners, we provide practical guidance and strategic advocacy to support successful participation, partnerships, and growth in the government contracting sector.