Request to Tender - Framework Legal Services

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

Buyer Title CPV / category Estimated value Per-year Procedure type Lots Location Contract length Submission deadline Go-live / start |-----------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------|-----------------|----------|----------------|------|----------|------------------|------------------------------|------------------| Department of Finance Request to Tender - Framework Legal Services not disclosed not stated not stated not stated not stated 3 years (with possible 1-year extension) 2026-08-24 11:00 not stated

2. Scope of Work

The Department of Finance seeks to establish a multi-party framework for the provision of legal services to the Minister for Finance. This framework aims to supplement the legal advice provided by the Office of the Attorney General (AGO) and the Chief State Solicitor’s Office (CSSO) by allowing access to additional legal resources as specific needs arise. The services will primarily focus on areas such as financial services, banking, and corporate matters.

The contractor's day-to-day activities will include:

• Legal Advisory Services: Providing expert legal advice on financial regulations, corporate governance, and compliance issues.
• Contract Drafting and Review: Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts related to financial transactions and corporate matters.
• Litigation Support: Assisting in legal proceedings, including preparation of documents and representation in court if necessary.
• Research and Analysis: Conducting legal research and analysis on relevant legislation and case law to support the Department's objectives.
• Collaboration with AGO/CSSO: Engaging with the AGO and CSSO as required, ensuring that all legal advice and documentation are compliant with governmental standards.

The framework will operate for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of extending for an additional year. The Department of Finance anticipates appointing between three to four consultants based on the most economically advantageous tenders.

3. Background & buyer context

This tender is being issued to enhance the legal support available to the Department of Finance, particularly in light of the Minister's recent divestitures from Irish financial institutions. The need for additional legal resources arises from the complexities associated with financial services and corporate governance. The Department intends to ensure that it has access to a range of legal expertise to address these challenges effectively. The framework will complement existing legal services provided by the AGO and CSSO, ensuring comprehensive legal coverage for the Department's operations.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum average annual turnover of €3,000,000 for each of the last three financial years.
• Insurance:
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: €15m each and every claim.
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

Bidders who fail to meet any minimum requirement will be eliminated from consideration.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The evaluation will follow a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach, focusing on the balance between quality and price.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement / response document: Follow the provided template; page limits apply.
• CVs: For key personnel; specific page count not stated.
• Pricing schedule: Must adhere to the specified format in the tender documents.
• Case studies: Not specified for this tender.
• Declarations: Including ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest statements.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: Tenders must be submitted via the electronic postbox on www.etenders.gov.ie.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term: Initial period of three years, with a possible extension of up to one year.
• Payment terms: Fees must be fixed and free from fluctuations; VAT excluded.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified for this tender.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified for this tender.
• Termination clauses: The Department reserves the right to terminate the framework agreement under certain conditions.
• IP ownership: Not specified for this tender.
• Sub-contracting rules: Sub-contractors may be required to enter into collateral agreements with the Department.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• The minimum turnover requirement of €3,000,000 may limit participation to larger firms, potentially excluding smaller businesses.
• The lack of specified past experience or personnel requirements may lead to ambiguity in evaluation.
• The framework does not guarantee the award of contracts, which may affect the financial viability for appointed consultants.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is open to firms that can demonstrate:

• A minimum annual turnover of €3,000,000, indicating that larger firms with established legal practices are more likely to qualify.
• The ability to form consortia, as joint and several liability is required among consortium members.
• A significant effort in bid preparation, likely requiring several days to compile the necessary documentation.
• The presence of incumbents or established firms may signal a competitive environment, making it challenging for new entrants.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: 2026-06-11 Legal Panel RTT.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email: Not specified
• Important attachments:
• Schedule 1 — Eligibility Requirements
• Schedule 2 — Award Criteria and Evaluation
• Schedule 4 — Draft Framework Agreement