It is the intent of the Joint Meeting to solicit Qualification Statements from Respondents that have expertise in the provision of legal services – Labor and Employment Counsel. Firms and/or persons responding to this RFQ shall be able to demonstrate that they will have the continuing capabilities to perform these services: A. General Policy Review Provide review and advice regarding the Joint Meeting’s personnel policies and 7 practices, especially regarding compliance with and interpretation of applicable federal, state and local statutes, rules, regulations and related operating parameters. B. Third Party Representation Provide assistance and advise regarding case presentation and representation of the Joint Meeting before third party review and appeal boards for personnel and collective bargaining cases and disputes. Specifically, prepare cases for and provide representation usually before, but not limited to Disciplinary Hearing Officers, the New Jersey Public Employees Relations Commission (PERC), the New Jersey Department of Personnel (Civil Service), Office of Administrative Law and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). C. Internal Disciplinary Hearings Represent the Joint Meeting in internal disciplinary hearings. (Note: This role is limited to Major Disciplinary Actions and certain Grievances.) D. Collective Bargaining Agreement Review Provide review and advice regarding legal clarity, sufficiency and compliance with federal and state statutes for collective bargaining agreements; and provide specific interpretations of agreement provisions and statutory changes, which may effect agreement provisions. When requested by the Joint Meeting, attend and participate in collective bargaining negotiations. E. Related Work o Prepare and present staff training seminars on specific legal topics, especially in areas of statutory and regulatory personnel issues, e.g., anti-sexual harassment and discrimination policy, progressive discipline, Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations etc. o Other labor/personnel related work, as required. F. Attend meetings as requested by the Executive Director, General Counsel, or the Board. Provide a monthly status report on matters being handled by the firm.
