DRS RFP 26-07 Court Reporting Services

The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) is seeking court reporting services for its DRS Appeals Unit, both in person and electronically using Zoom or another web based service. DRS administers retirement plans for Washington State public employees, including state and local government employees, teachers, law enforcement officers, and firefighters. When a member, retiree, or employer disputes a DRS decision, the matter may be appealed to the DRS Appeals Unit. The DRS Appeals Unit conducts hearings under the Administrative Procedure Act and issues written orders based on Washington State statutes and rules. Orders issued by the Appeal Unit’s Presiding Officers are appealable to Washington Superior Courts. Not all matters appealed require full hearings or live testimony. Annually, the Appeals Units has between 5-10 hearings or oral arguments on motions that require the use of a certified court reporter. Generally, motion arguments are recorded for future transcription, if needed. The bidder shall provide legal, court-certified court reporting services that include, but are not limited to, the Appeals Unit’s pre-hearing conferences, oral arguments, and hearings. The court reporting services will be in person throughout the state of Washington or electronically using Zoom or another web-based service. In addition, court reporting services may also include legal transcription of electronically recorded pre-hearing conferences and oral arguments before the DRS’ Presiding Officers. Generally, court reporters must be available during regular business hours (8-5 p.m. PST), Monday through Friday.