Government Contracts Attorney Construction & Government Contracts Team

Job Overview:

A law firm seeks an experienced Government Contracts Attorney to join its Construction and Government Contracts practice, one of the most prominent teams in the Southeast. The attorney will provide legal counsel and representation to clients engaged in federal, state, and local government contracting. This role requires expertise in government procurement law, compliance, and related litigation. The ideal candidate has a minimum of five years of experience in government contracting and will play a critical role in advising clients on navigating the complexities of government procurement.

Duties:

• Provide legal counsel on government contracting laws, regulations, and policies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local requirements.
• Review, draft, and negotiate contracts, amendments, and modifications with government entities.
• Identify and manage legal risks associated with government contracts, advising clients on potential issues and mitigation strategies.
• Represent clients in bid protests, contract disputes, and other government contract-related negotiations and litigation.
• Assist clients with Requests for Equitable Adjustments (REAs) and Contract Disputes Act claims.
• Guide clients through participation in the Small Business Administration (SBA) programs, including Mentor-Protégé Programs, Joint Ventures, and contracting assistance programs.
• Provide training to internal teams on government contracting regulations, compliance, and best practices.
• Stay informed on changes in government procurement laws and analyze their impact on client operations.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams such as procurement, finance, and project management to ensure contract compliance and successful execution.
• Maintain thorough documentation of contract-related communications, negotiations, and decisions.
• Participate in local and regional marketing opportunities to promote the firm's government contracts practice.

Requirements:

• A minimum of five years of experience in government contracting within a government agency, in-house legal department, or law firm.
• At least five years of general litigation experience.
• Expertise in federal, state, and local procurement laws, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its agency supplements.
• Experience with bid protests before the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and U.S. Court of Federal Claims.
• Familiarity with government contracting programs such as the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program, 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone, and related protests.
• Strong understanding of ethics, standards of conduct for federal contractors, and export control compliance.
• Experience in suspension and debarment proceedings.
• Excellent academic credentials and strong legal writing skills.
• An active member of the Virginia Bar Association.
• Willingness to engage in business development and marketing initiatives.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in Virginia (Virginia Bar membership required).

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of government contracting laws, procurement regulations, and risk management strategies.
• Proficient in contract drafting, review, and negotiation.
• Exceptional legal research and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage and resolve government contract disputes through negotiation and litigation.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with a client-focused approach.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and clients to ensure successful contract execution.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with matching contributions.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Life insurance coverage.

Work Environment: Professional office setting with travel required for client meetings, court proceedings, and related events.