Legal Services - Educational Advocacy

The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services is soliciting qualified attorneys to provide legal advice, counsel, and representation for education decision makers of transition-aged individuals, specifically those aged 18 to 22. The primary objective is to ensure stable residential special educational placements and positive outcomes under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, M.G.L. c. 71B, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Contracted attorneys are responsible for representing clients before the Bureau of Special Education Appeals, negotiating with school officials to settle disputes, and consulting with DDS staff to facilitate the transition to adult services. This is a fee-for-service, rolling enrollment procurement designed to establish a Master List of qualified providers. While initial proposals for the July 1, 2026, contract start date were due by March 3, 2026, the department will continue to accept and review proposals on a quarterly basis through December 31, 2030, with a final contract end date of June 30, 2031. Preference is given to participants in the Small Business Purchasing Program who meet the best value criteria. Qualified bidders must provide a resume, a five-page persuasive legal writing sample, a BSEA hearing decision, a list of relevant citations, a Certificate of Good Standing from the Board of Bar Overseers, and proof of current malpractice insurance. Contractors must comply with strict privacy and security standards, including HIPAA, the HITECH Act, and the Fair Information Practices Act, particularly when handling protected health information. Administrative requirements include registration in COMMBUYS and the Massachusetts Management Accounting and Reporting System for payment via the Payment Voucher system. All services are subject to appropriation, and providers are subject to annual written contract reviews by the DDS Office of the General Counsel to ensure quality assurance and professional standing.