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

In Florida, contracts for Legal and Professional Services—such as legal counsel, consulting, auditing, and related advisory roles—are subject to both general state procurement laws and specific professional licensing requirements. All legal service providers must be licensed attorneys in good standing with The Florida Bar, while other professionals (e.g., accountants, engineers) must hold relevant state certifications. State and local agencies typically require competitive solicitation unless a valid exemption applies; for legal services, sole-source justifications are sometimes allowed but must be well-documented. Contracts must comply with Florida Statutes Chapter 287, which governs public procurement, mandating clear scope of work, deliverables, and performance standards. Insurance requirements are standard, with professional liability/errors and omissions coverage commonly mandated; minimum coverage levels may vary by agency or project size. Indemnification clauses are often limited by sovereign immunity provisions (Section 768.28, Florida Statutes) when contracting with governmental entities. Payment terms are regulated under the Florida Prompt Payment Act, generally requiring payment within 30 days of receipt of a proper invoice. Nonresident contractors should be aware of possible registration or bonding requirements. Dispute resolution clauses often specify Florida venue and law, with mediation or non-binding arbitration favored before litigation. Confidentiality, records retention, and public records access (including compliance with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes) are also typical contract inclusions, reflecting the state’s strong public records laws.