Patent Legal Services

Contract 1232SA21C0002 is a sole-source modification awarded by the USDA Agricultural Research Service to Nath & Associates PLLC for specialized patent legal services. Exercised under FAR Clause 52.217-8, this modification extends the period of performance for six months, ending February 28, 2026, at a total cost of $283,200, which breaks down to a monthly rate of $47,200. The services are performed in Beltsville, Maryland, and focus on managing the USDA's global patent and intellectual property portfolio, including patent prosecution, international filings, and coordination with licensees to ensure the uninterrupted protection of government intellectual property rights. The award was made on a non-competitive basis under the statutory authority of 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) and FAR 6.103-1, citing that Nath & Associates PLLC is the only responsible source capable of providing the necessary expertise and mobilizing qualified personnel by the required date. This justification for other than full and open competition was documented in a Justification and Approval (J&A) filing. While this extension ensures continuity of critical legal operations, the agency has indicated that a competitive procurement process is being prepared for future requirements.