North East councils issue call for competition on £96m barristers framework

The multi-supplier framework is worth an estimated £96m over eight years. It will be used solely by North East member authorities and their partners.

The services include “representation in judicial proceedings before the courts and legal advice given in anticipation of or preparation for such proceedings”.

The framework will be established following a competitive tendering process for an initial 48-month period, with the option to extend for an additional 2 x 24-month periods.

It will operate for a maximum 96-month term and will expire on 3 April 2034, subject to extension.

The framework will be reopened throughout its term to allow for new entrants. “As such, suppliers which have not been appointed to this Framework will have the opportunity to be appointed to the subsequent framework,” NEPO said.