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

In Minnesota, contracts for Legal and Professional Services are typically governed by a combination of state procurement statutes (notably Minn. Stat. §§ 16C and 16B) and agency-specific policies. Contractors must ensure proper licensing—attorneys must be admitted to the Minnesota Bar, and other professionals (e.g., engineers, accountants) require state-recognized credentials. Contracts often mandate compliance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, equal opportunity, and affirmative action provisions, particularly for state-funded engagements. Insurance requirements are standard: general liability and professional liability/errors & omissions coverage are commonly specified, with minimum coverage amounts set by the state or contracting agency. Indemnification clauses are prevalent, but Minnesota law restricts public entities from agreeing to unlimited indemnity. Payment terms typically follow state prompt payment statutes (Minn. Stat. § 16A.124), requiring payment within 30 days of invoice approval. Most contracts stipulate that services cannot begin before full execution and may include specific deliverables, reporting, or performance benchmarks. Dispute resolution generally favors negotiation and mediation before litigation, with venue and jurisdiction in Minnesota courts. Data privacy provisions are often required, especially where client or citizen data is involved, aligning with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minn. Stat. Ch. 13). Contractors should also be aware of conflict-of-interest disclosures and lobbying restrictions. Overall, Minnesota’s contracting environment emphasizes statutory compliance, clear risk allocation, and transparency.