Mastering Federal Contracts Part 1: The Fundamentals of Federal Subcontracting

This 3-part webinar series is designed to provide construction and federal contractors with the essential knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of federal contracting requirements, from critical FAR clauses to subcontracting strategies and collaboration options like teaming and joint ventures. Led by experienced government contracting attorney Maria Panichelli, each session offers actionable insights to help contractors minimize risk, fulfill legal obligations, and leverage partnerships effectively.

Webinar 1: The Fundamentals of Federal Subcontracting

Date: Jan. 9, 2025

Time: 12:00-1:45 PM

About the webinar: In the government contracting space, subcontract agreements must do double duty. Not only do they have to address the requirements of the prime and subcontractor, they also have to consider the interests of the federal government. This legal balancing act requires a depth and breadth of knowledge about the FAR and related subcontracting issues. In this webinar, Maria Panichelli, a partner in McCarter & English LLP’s government contracts and global trade group, will explain how to successfully navigate some of the biggest subcontracting issues from both the prime contractor and subcontractor points of view. The webinar will cover flow-down clauses, sub vs. prime dispute resolution, and key strategies to minimize risk. Maria will discuss some of the most common subcontracting mistakes made by subs and primes in federal contracting and how to avoid them. She will also briefly address pass-through claims and liquidation agreements.

Mastering Federal Contracts Part 2: Teaming, Joint Ventures, & the SBA Mentor-Protege Program

Webinar 2: The Fundamentals of Federal Subcontracting

Date: Jan. 16, 2025

Time: 12:00-2:00 PM

Part 2 of 3-part series: You can’t go far in government contracting today without hearing about Teaming and Joint Venturing, or Mentor Protégé relationships. Whether you are a large business looking to leverage a small business partner’s eligibility, or a small business looking to supplement your own performance capabilities and gain a competitive edge, these strategies can greatly increase your access to contracts, and give your revenue a boost. While many contractors have heard of these strategies, not all fully understand the related eligibility requirements, or how to draft enforceable, compliant teaming or JV agreements. Similarly, many contractors do not fully understand their rights and obligations after forming a mentor-protégé relationship. These gaps in information are dangerous because, when done incorrectly, teaming and joint venturing can have serious negative consequences. During this webinar, experienced government contracting attorney Maria Panichelli will explain the proper considerations and procedures for entering into an enforceable teaming agreement and the essential clauses to include in these types of agreements, as well as common pitfalls to avoid. Attendees also will learn how to form eligible small business JVs, and how to navigate the SBA mentor-protégé program. Recent changes to the small business regulations relating to teaming, JVs and the mentor-protégé regulations will also be discussed.

Webinar 3: FAR Clauses Every Construction Contractor Should Know

Date: Jan. 30, 2024 (Rescheduled from Dec. 19th)

Time: 12:00 – 1:30 PM

About the webinar: Any federal government contractor can tell you that getting the contract award is only the beginning. The FAR imposes a whole host of obligations on the contractor, which govern how the contractor should perform, how it should handle changes to the contract, and how it may seek compensation or resolve a dispute with the agency relating to those changes. In the construction context in particular – where changes and delays are inevitable – understanding these provisions can make all the difference between a successful project, and a disaster. A contractor who truly understands the FAR, and the obligations it imposes, can often avoid conflict with the agency, and resolve disputes before they get out of control. In this webinar, experienced government contracting attorney Maria Panichelli will discuss common issues relating to the “Changes” clause, defective specifications, differing site conditions, delays, and more. Attendees will learn how to effectively communicate with agency personnel to avoid escalation of the dispute, how to fulfill notice requirements, and how to preserve claim rights. Common government defenses, and how to anticipate and avoid them, will also be covered.