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

In Washington State, contracts for Legal and Professional Services typically require clear scopes of work, defined deliverables, and compliance with state procurement laws such as the Washington State Procurement Reform Act (RCW 39.26). Contractors must hold appropriate professional licenses—attorneys must be admitted to the Washington State Bar Association, while other professionals (e.g., accountants, architects) must be licensed by relevant state boards. Contracts often mandate compliance with Washington’s ethics statutes (RCW 42.52), and public contracts may invoke requirements for equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, and records retention under the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). Standard insurance requirements include professional liability (errors and omissions) and general liability coverage, with specified minimum limits and evidence of insurance provided prior to contract execution. Indemnification clauses are common, with the contractor typically holding the state or agency harmless for acts of negligence. Payment terms generally follow net-30 or net-45 days from invoice receipt, contingent on acceptance of deliverables. Dispute resolution often favors negotiation and mediation before litigation, with venue typically set in Washington courts. Risk factors include strict adherence to confidentiality provisions, compliance with data privacy laws, and timely performance to avoid liquidated damages. Contracts are also shaped by prevailing wage laws for certain professional roles and may restrict subcontracting without prior approval.