This class is eligible for CLE Passport use. You will be able to select the CLE Passport as your payment method for no additional cost when registering for this course.Credits: 2.0 General Credit hours*
*This class is General Credit hours. However, it is approved for Ethics Credit only in Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia.
Series Description: Designed for attorneys involved with government contractors, this three-part series delivers essential insights into critical areas of federal contracting law. The series begins with a deep dive into the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), equipping practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of its requirements and ethical obligations. The second class in the series explores the False Claims Act (FCA), detailing key enforcement trends, compliance risks, and defense strategies against government and qui tam actions. The series concludes with an examination of the unique complexities of mergers and acquisitions in the D.C. Metro’s thriving GovCon industry, offering practical strategies for navigating transactions successfully. Together, these classes provide invaluable knowledge for attorneys working in the dynamic field of government contracting.
Class Description: Navigating the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is essential for government contractors and the attorneys who advise them. This popular and timely class provides a comprehensive overview of the FAR and the ethical standards it imposes on those subject to its requirements. Join our expert panel as they break down key FAR topics, including the following:
- FAR Overview: What it is, which contracts it governs, and its industry-wide applicability
- Code of Ethics Requirements: Understanding the ethical framework for government contractors
- Key Ethical Rules: Highlights of FAR provisions on conflicts of interest, truthfulness, and accuracy in pricing and billing
- Interaction with Other Federal Laws: How FAR intersects with the Buy American Act and other statutes
- Reporting Violations: The meaning of “credible evidence of a violation,” reporting obligations, and potential liabilities
- Non-Compliance Consequences: Examining the risks of debarment, suspension, and civil damages
- The False Claims Act and FAR: Exploring their relationship and the implications of FCA violations for FAR compliance
Through real-world examples, hypothetical scenarios, and analysis of actual cases, attendees will gain a solid understanding of the FAR framework and its ethical standards, learn how to identify and address common compliance challenges faced by government contractors, and develop strategies to mitigate the risks of non-compliance and understand enforcement consequences. Whether you represent contractors, advise on compliance, or handle procurement litigation, this course is a must for navigating the complex world of federal acquisition ethics and regulations.
Those interested in attending this class may also be interested in attending the False Claims Act Primer 2025 (On-Demand) and Government Contracting M&A: Tips for a Successful Close 2025 (On-Demand).
Faculty:
Patrick Quigley, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP
Erin K. Sullivan, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP