This is a Request for Information (RFI) for legal services for the National Qualified Representative Program (NQRP). The U. S. Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) requires these services nationwide for individuals found mentally incompetent to represent themselves in immigration proceedings. The Statement of Objectives (SOO) outlines the expected outputs, including legal representation and other related services. The contract type is anticipated to be firm-fixed-price or firm-fixed-price with cost-reimbursement for certain direct costs. The period of performance is 12 months with two additional 12-month option periods. Services will be provided nationwide, including at DHS detention facilities and immigration courts. The process involves EOIR identifying respondents, ordering qualified representatives, and sending information to the contractor. Required services include representation in various immigration proceedings and other related services such as release plan development, interpretation, facilitation of medical/social services, provision of expert witnesses, coordination of housing/transportation, and communication with family. Qualified representatives must be licensed attorneys, supervised law students/graduates, or DOJ accredited representatives. Performance objectives include timely entry of appearance and restrictions on withdrawal. Funding is restricted to required services. Deliverables include program operation plans, monthly reports, and training. Travel is approved for trips under $500 and requires prior authorization for trips exceeding $500. Estimated caseloads are provided for both carry-over and new cases. Vendors with relevant capabilities are invited to submit a capabilities statement via email.
The bid notice does not explicitly state a delivery deadline for proposals. However, it mentions specific timeframes for qualified representatives to enter an appearance, such as 35 calendar days, 21 calendar days, or 15 calendar days from the date of the finding of incompetence, depending on the circumstances. For monthly reports, the deadline is 11:59 p. m. Eastern time fifteen business days following the last day of each reporting period.
The bid notice does not specify payment terms.
The bid notice does not specify warranty requirements.
The bid notice does not specify the award criterion.
Qualified representatives must be licensed attorneys in good standing, law students or law graduates directly supervised by licensed attorneys, or DOJ accredited representatives with full accreditation. They must be authorized to practice before immigration courts and the BIA, complete a background check, and generally have at least one and a half years of experience practicing before immigration courts and/or the BIA.
The bid notice does not specify penalties.
The bid notice does not mention a site visit.
The bid notice does not require sample submissions.
The bid notice does not specify a challenge deadline.
The bid notice does not provide an estimated total value.