Conflict Indigent Defense Counsel

Please read full RFP and apply through the application process outlined below. Please do not click quick apply as these applications will not be considered.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ):

CONFLICT INDIGENT DEFENSE COUNSEL

1. Introduction & Purpose Morgan County (County) invites statements of qualifications from licensed attorneys or law firms (Applicant) to provide indigent defense legal services in cases where the primary public defender has a conflict of interest. The objective is to provide high-quality representation to indigent individuals in criminal juvenile or other cases consistent with the Utah Indigent Defense Act and Sixth Amendment requirements.

2. Scope of Services The selected counsel will represent indigent defendants in cases arising in Morgan County where the primary public defender is conflicted out including:

• Criminal offenses (felonies and misdemeanors) in Justice and District Courts.
• Juvenile court cases.
• Mental health commitment hearings if required.
• Post-conviction matters or appeals if specifically contracted.
• Maintenance of conflict checks to ensure no representation occurs where a conflict exists.

3. Qualifications and Requirements

• Licensure: Active membership in good standing with the Utah State Bar.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience in criminal defense specifically handling conflicts with a minimum of two years preferred.
• Capacity: Ability to handle cases promptly including appearing in court for hearings trials and attorney-client consultations.
• Compliance: Adherence to the Utah Rules of Professional Conduct and standards set by the Utah Indigent Defense Commission.

4. Submission Requirements Interested parties must submit a proposal containing:

1. Resume/Firm Profile: Highlighting criminal defense experience.
2. References: At least three professional references (judges/attorneys preferred).
3. Fee Structure: Proposed compensation (e.g. hourly rate monthly retainer or per-case rate).

5. Evaluation Criteria Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Experience and qualifications in criminal defense.
• Knowledge of Utah law and indigent defense standards.
• Availability and capacity to handle conflict caseloads.
• Cost-effectiveness of the proposal.

6. Timeline and Contact

• RFQ Issued: March 4th 2026
• Deadline for Submission: April 1st 2026
• Contract Start Date: ASAP
• Submit Proposals To: Kate Becker Morgan County Administrative Manager via email with subject Conflict Counsel RFQ Submission.

7. Right to Reject Morgan County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals to waive any minor informalities and to select the proposer who best meets the needs of the county not necessarily the lowest cost.