Law 792:  Government Contracts

This course analyzes the basic considerations in contracting with the federal government, including the sovereign’s power to contract, the applicable statutes, regulations and executive orders. Material covers methods of procurement; types of contracts; sealed bidding or negotiation (competitive proposals); the problems of offer, acceptance and consideration; affirmative action programs such as minority business enterprises, women business enterprises, and disadvantaged business enterprises; as well as the authority of government agents to contract.  The materials also focus on the problems of contract performance, including changes; delays and suspensions of work; contract termination either for contractor default or for government convenience; and equitable adjustments and allowable costs. We will review case studies, negotiation exercises, and course readings throughout the semester. We will have guest lecturers who are either practicing attorneys, government lawyers, or government contractor executives.

Sequence and Prerequisites: None.

Evaluation: The course will be evaluated by a take home exam.