Title
Fiscal Year 2023-24 Legal Representation Services Contracts (Ordinance S-49894)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into agreements with legal services providers to provide representation services to indigent defendants in Phoenix Municipal Court for Fiscal Year 2023-24. Further request to authorize the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item. The total value of the agreements will not exceed $3,949,000.
Report
Summary
The Public Defender's Office, through its contract holders, provides legal representation services to indigent individuals charged with criminal offenses in Phoenix Municipal Court. These services are provided in Phoenix Municipal Court courtrooms, and 365 days a year at Maricopa County's Intake, Transfer and Release (ITR) facility.
Procurement Information
On May 3, 2023 the City of Phoenix Public Defender Review Committee met to review resumes and applications of attorneys and legal support service providers for provision of legal defense services in Phoenix Municipal Court. The review process included applications from current contract holders as well as individuals seeking to obtain a contract for the first time. The Committee approved a list of those who meet the minimum qualification requirements and who would be eligible for consideration for a contract. The approved list in Attachment A contains more names than available contracts due to the necessity of having attorneys available should an unexpected opening occur during the course of the contract year. The procedure facilitates continuity in providing legal services and minimizes delay in processing and resolution of cases.
Contract Term
The contract will begin on or about July 1, 2023 for a one-year contract term.
Financial Impact
These assignments will have a financial impact of up to $3,949,000. Funding is available in the Public Defender's Office operating budget.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Interim Deputy City Manager John Chan and the Public Defender's Office.