Title
Resolution to Approve Amendment Number One to Professional Services Contract with Reiser and Frushour, PLLC to Provide Legal Representation as Court Appointed Counsel to Indigent Defendants ($40,000.00)
Memorandum
The 15th Judicial District Court is required by law to appoint attorneys to represent indigent defendants when potential sanctions (including sanctions for violations of court orders) upon conviction may include incarceration. Reiser and Frushour, PLLC currently provides these services.
Attached for your review and approval is a resolution to approve a contract amendment with Reiser and Frushour, PLLC to extend the duration of the current agreement for 60 days and increase the total contract amount from $240,000.00 to $280,000.00.
RFP 904 has been posted by the City on behalf of the Court to seek proposals from local law firms for indigent legal representation for misdemeanor cases.
The Court has budgeted funds for indigent counsel representation in the FY 2015 budget.
Reiser and Frushour, PLLC received Human Rights approval on September 23, 2013 and complies with the City living wage requirement.
Staff
Prepared by: Shryl Samborn, Court Administrator, 15th Judicial District Court
Approved by: Steven D. Powers, City Administrator
Body
Whereas, Persons charged with misdemeanor violations for which incarceration may be imposed are entitled to legal representation;
Whereas, Persons who are determined by the 15th Judicial District Court to be indigent have the right to have counsel appointed by the Court to represent them at public expense;
Whereas, It is in the best interests of the City, the Court and indigent 15th Judicial District Court defendants to select suitable legal service providers with due diligence and without haste;
Whereas, Funds for Court-appointed counsel for indigent persons have been approved in the 15th Judicial District Court’s FY 2015 Budget;
Whereas, Reiser and Frushour are attorneys who currently represent indigent defendants in the 15th Judicial District Court and have proven abilities, demonstrated knowledge and sensitivity in performing this work;
Whereas, The contract for legal representation with Reiser and Frushhour ends June 30, 2014 and the Firm is willing to extend their services; and
Whereas, Reiser and Frushour, PLLC received Human Rights approval on September 23, 2013 and complies with the City living wage requirement;
RESOLVED, That City Council approve a contract amendment with Reiser and Frushour, PLLC to extend the agreement to provide Court-appointed counsel for indigent defendants appearing in the 15th Judicial District Court for 60 days and increase the contract amount by $40,000.00;
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized and directed to execute the amendment following approval as to form by the City Attorney and as to substance by the City Administrator;
RESOLVED, That the City Administrator take all necessary administrative actions to implement this resolution.