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

In Ohio, contracts for Legal and Professional Services—such as legal counsel, consulting, auditing, or specialized advisory roles—are typically structured as personal services agreements with clear scopes of work, defined deliverables, and detailed compensation terms. State procurement regulations often require competitive selection processes for public sector contracts, including Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and formal evaluation criteria. Practitioners must maintain appropriate state licenses (e.g., Ohio Bar admission for attorneys or CPA licensure for auditors) and, where applicable, professional certifications. Most contracts mandate proof of professional liability insurance, with minimum coverage amounts varying by agency or project size. Ohio law prohibits certain indemnification clauses in state contracts, and sovereign immunity may limit the state’s liability. Payment terms are usually net 30 days from receipt of an undisputed invoice, and retainage is uncommon except for large or complex engagements. Confidentiality and data protection clauses are standard, especially for contracts involving sensitive information. Dispute resolution typically favors negotiation and mediation over litigation, with venue stipulated in Ohio courts. State ethics laws restrict conflicts of interest and may require disclosure of relationships or prior engagements. Compliance with the Ohio Revised Code (particularly Chapters 125 and 153 for procurement) and adherence to anti-discrimination, equal opportunity, and prevailing wage statutes are standard contractual expectations.