Need a Legal And Professional Services Contract in Alabama? AroundWire Can Help

In Alabama, contracts for Legal and Professional Services—such as legal counsel, audit, consulting, or engineering—are typically governed by both state procurement statutes and professional licensing laws. Service providers must hold appropriate state licensure (e.g., attorneys must be admitted to the Alabama State Bar; engineers must be licensed by the Alabama Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors). State agencies often utilize competitive procurement processes, but professional services may be exempt from strict low-bid rules, allowing for qualifications-based selection. Contracts must comply with the Alabama Open Records Act, so confidentiality provisions are balanced against public disclosure requirements. Insurance obligations are standard, with providers typically required to carry professional liability/errors and omissions insurance, and in some cases, general liability coverage—limits are often specified in the solicitation. Payment terms are generally net 30 days from invoice approval, but retainage or milestone payments may be used for larger projects. Indemnification clauses are common but may be limited by Alabama law, which restricts state agencies from agreeing to open-ended indemnities. Dispute resolution often defaults to Alabama state courts, as mandatory arbitration clauses are less favored in public contracts. Additionally, contracts may include requirements related to E-Verify enrollment and compliance with state immigration laws. Overall, attention to statutory compliance and clear delineation of scope, deliverables, and performance standards are essential in Alabama’s legal and professional services contracts.