Item Q09
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Meeting Date: July 19,2006
Bulk Item: Yes
Division: COUNTY ATTORNEY
Staff Contact Person: Natileene W. Cassel
AGENDA ITEM WORDING:
Approval of the contract with the firm of Gray/Robinson, P. A. to provide legal services
to the County for the appeal of the case of Neumont v. Monroe County, et.,al. and to be
available for other cases if authorized.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
The County is involved in an Appeal of the case ofNeumont v. Monroe County and
seeks to hire legal counsel to assist in the appellate process.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
The BOCC have approved the hiring of the firm of Gray/Robinson, P. A. this contract is
the formal document between the County and the firm establishing the relationship.
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES: NONE
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Approval.
TOTAL COST:
BUDGETED: YES
NO
COST TO COUNTY:
SOURCE OF FUNDS:
REVENUE PRODUCING: YES NO X AMOUNT PER MONTH Year
APPROVED BY: County Atty ~/PurchaSing _ Risk Management
DIVISION DIRECfOR APPROVAL: ~P- ?/~
uzanne utt n
DOCUMENTATION:
Included X
Not Required
DISPOSITION:
AGENDA Item#
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AGREEMENT BETWEEN MONROE COUNTY AND
GRAYIROBINSON, f.A.
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this _ day of , 2006, A.D., by and
between the BOARD OF COUNIY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNIY, FLORIDA, as the
legislative and governing body of Monroe County, Florida, and in accordance with the powers
enwneratcd in Section 125.01, Florida Statutes ("COUNTY'~ and, ORA Y!ROBINSON, P ,A
("A1TORNEY") hereby enter into this Agreement regarding the retention of A TIORNEY by
COUNTY to provide legal advice and services.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and provisions contained herein,
the parties agree as follows:
l, THE CLIENT
The Client is the COUNTY, and to the extent ethically pennissible, its elected and ap(XJinted officers
and its employees, unless COUNTY advises ATI'ORNEYotherwise.
2. THE ATIORNEY
ATI'ORNEY is the individual or professional association named above and whose legally authorized
signature appears at the bottom of this Agreement. A TIORNEY is licensed to practice law in all
jurisdictions relevant to this matter. A TIORNEY has been retained specifically because
ATTORNEY is understood by COUNTY to be able to handle this matter. If ATIORNEY
practices with others who may also provide services to COUNTY, he or she understands that
COUNfY expects that A TIORNEY will be responsible for managing the representation, assuring
compliance of others with the terms of this Agreement and ethical requirements, preparing and
substantiating all bills, and communicating with COUNTY. AITORNEY may not delegate or
outsoW'Ce this work without full written disclosure to, and prior written approval from, the COUNrY.
3. TERM OF AGREEMENT
lbis Agreement and representation by A TIORNEY is effective upon execution by ATTORNEY
and acceptance and approval by COUNTY in accordance with COUNTY'S policies, ordinances,
or governing statutes. The representation shall continue until terminated by either the COUNTY,
or by the AITORNEY in accordance with ethical requirements and/or the terms of this
Agreement.
4. SCOPE OF THE WORK
A rrORNEY shall provide legal services and advice to COUNTY reprding appellate work in the
case of ELIZABETH J. NEUMONT, e.t.a!. vs. STATE OF FLORIDA, et.,al. and relevant drafting
of briefs, research, and/or litigation as assigned to A TIORNEY by COUNTY through the
COUNTY A TIORNEY. A TIORNEY may be assigned new matters by the COUTNY
AITORNEY, and only the COUNTY A1TORNEY from time to time dwing the tenD of this
Agreement, those matters shall be included under this Agreement when assigned by the
COUNTY in writing and accepted in writing by A ITORNEY and the Clerk of Court is notified
in writing of the addition of the matter. The new matter shall be given a new name and the matter
shall be billed under that name.
4.1 Professional ability to oerfonn work. a.ppointment of contract manager
ATTORNEY wammts that he or she is authorized by law to engage in the perfonnance of the
activities herein describedt subject to the tenns and conditions set forth in these contract
documents. ATIORNEY shall desisnate an individual attorney to be the contract manager for
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each matter and the contract manager shall at all times exercise independent, professional
judgment and shall assume professional responsibjJity for the services to be provided.
ATTORNEY warrants that he or she and the authorized time keepers are authorized by law and
the Rules and Regulations of The Florida Bar to engage in the perfonnance of the activities
encompassed by this Agreement. If A TIORNEY is a member of a law finn, either as partner,
shareholder, associate, or other relationship, ATTORNEY warrants that he or she is authorized to
enter into this Agreement by the law firm.
4.2 Management of time keepers
ATIORNEY is responsible for managing the matter cost-effectively and competently, e.g., by
insuring that additional time-keepers are competent, properly supervised, efficient, and in
compliance with the tenns of this Agreement as well as with ethical obligations.
5. REVIEW OF ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS AND POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF
INTEREST BEFORE INITIATING REPRESENTATION
A TIORNEY has conducted a thorough investigation and detennined that neither ATTORNEY nor his
or her firm has any ethical impediment, real or potential, including but not limited to conflicts of
interest, to representing COUN1Y, To the extent that any ethical impediment, real or potential, is
discovered or ever arises, ATTORNEY shall immediately infonn COUNTY in writing of the
impediment (regardless of whether AITORNEY believes he or she has taken all steps necessary to
avoid the impediment and regardless of whether ATIORNEY believes that the impediment is
insubstantial or questionable), make full disclosure of the situation to COUNIY, obtain COUNTY'S
express, written consent to continue the representation of the other client, and take all steps requested by
COUNfY to avoid or mitigate the impediment ATIORNEY understands that, if a direct or indirect
conflict of interest arises which, in the opinion of the COUNTY, cannot be avoided or mitigated
under the Rules of Professional Conduct of The Horida Bar, COUNTY may, in its discretion, (a) obtain
reimbursement from A TIORNEY for all fees and expenses paid to A TIORNEY in this matter; (b)
obtain cancellation of all amounts allegedly owed by COUNTY to ATTORNEY; and (0) obtain
reimbursement for consequential expenses incurred by COUNTY. including the cost of replacement
counsel.
6. PAYMENTS TO ATTORNEY
ATIORNEY shall submit to COUNTY invoices with supporting docwnentation acceptable to the
Clerk on a schedule as set forth in the contract. Acceptability to the Clerk is based on generally
accepted accounting principles and such laws, rules and regulations as may govern the Clerk's
disbursal of funds.
6.1 A TIORNEY Fee (Hourlv)
A TIORNEY will be paid for his or her services based on the number of hours expended on
behalf of COUNTY (rounded to the nearest tenth hour for each time entry), not to include time
billable to Or compensated by other clients, multiplied by the ATIORNEY'S hourly rate. The
following minimum billing documentation and time-keeper requirements are a condition
precedent to payment by the COUNTY.
6,2. Non-billable time
A TIORNEY will bill COUNTY only for time reasonably and necessarily incurred to render
professional services on COUNTY'S behalf in accordance with this Agreement. Time attributable
to billing questions is not billable. Time expended by time-keepers who have not been approved
by COUNTY is also not billable.
6.3. Hourlv Rates. and Chan2es to hourly rates
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HoW'ly rates for ATTORNEY and additional Timekeepers will be set at:
Approved Time Keepers:
Name:
Ed Scales, :&q.
Monterrey Campbell, Esq.
Jason Unger
R. Dean Cannon
Mark Miller
Pete Antonocci
Frank Fleisher
Hourly Rate:
5225.00
$225.00
$225.00
$225.00
$225.00
S225.00
$225,00
ATTORNEY will charge no more than the homly rate quoted above throughout the duration of
the matter, unless otherwise agreed in writing and approved by COUNTY in the same manner as
Agreement.
6.4. Discounts to other Qients
The rates A TIORNEY will charge COUNTY represent the lowest rates charged by the same
time-keepers to other clients. In the event that lower rates or discounts are provided to other
clients, ATTORNEY and approved time-keepers will also provide them on the same basis to
COUNTY.
6.5. Time keeDers
As used in this Agreement, the term "time keeper" shan include ATTORNEY and other
AlTORNEYS and individuals identified in paragraph 6.3 of this Agreement who will be
providing services under this Agreement and who will bill the COUNfY for their services in
accordance with this Agreement.
6.51. Duplication of effort
Unless advance COUNTY approval is obtained, ATIORNEY will not have more than one time-
keeper bill for court appearances, attendance at depositions and meetings, including :l'neetings
with COUNTY representatives, and internal conferences. In the event that mOre than one person
attends, only the time of the person with the lowest rate will be billable. ATIORNEY is not
permitted to use this matter to provide on the job training for a time-keeper, and bill for that time-
keeper's services, without COUNTY'S advance approval.
6.5.2. Time-keeper changes
Time-keepers approved by the COUNTY are listed in paragraph 6.3 of this Agreement, and may be
amended from time to time, upon mutual agreement of the COUNTY and the A TIORNEY, to
evidence the then..current circumstances. Additional time-keepers may not be added to the matter
without advsnce written approval from COUN1Y. In the event that additional time-keepers providing
services which are to be billed to COUNTY are to be added to the staf'l; then. their hourly rates shall be
provided to COUNTY in advanoe, and, upon written approval by the COUNTY, their rates and billing
practices shall comply with the requirements of this Agreement. COUNTY e:xpects to receive
disoounts or other conoessions so that any inoreases or changes in time-keepers will not result
in unnecessary or unreasonable charges to COUNTY, e.g., for training, internal conferences,
and management.
6.6. Existine work product
To the extent the A TIORNEY makes use of existing work product, e.g., in the fonn of research
previously performed for another client, then AITORNEY shall bill only that time expended in
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using that work product for COUNTY. In other words, no premium, markup, or other adjustment
shall be made to COUNTY bill for time spent on work already perfonned.
7. BUlJNG OF FEES AND EXPENSES
AITORNEY shall comply with the following requirements as to billing fees and expenses as a
condition precedent to COUNTY'S obligation to pay each bill:
7.1. Monthly bills
Unless otherwise agreed in a writing signed by the COUNTY, bills shall be issued monthly by
AITORNEY within fifteen (15) days after the close of each month. ATTORNEY understands
that COUNTY requires prompt bills in part to facilitate effective management of the
representation and fees.
7.2, Bill fonnat
A TIORNEY shall provide detailed, itemized bills which shall, at a minimum:
7.2.1 DescriDtion
Provide a general description of the matter, to include the name of the COUNTY depaI1m.ent or
constitutional officer, ifnot indicated in the title of the matter, for which legal services are being
perfonned (e,g. Richard Roe v. Monroe County-BEO Claim); a description of the work
perfonned in enough detail so that each item is distinguishable from other listed items and
sufficient to allow COUNTY to detennine the necessity for and reasonableness of the time
expended, the services performed, the project Or task each service relates to, the subject and
pwpose of each service~ and the names of others who were present or communicated with in the
course of perfonmng the service. For example, simply the word "researchJ' is not acceptable,
more detail about the type of research and what was determined by the research is necessary.
7 .2.2 Personnel
Clearly identify each timekeeper performing services in conjunction with each entry. Clearly
identify all persons who are not full-time lawyers employed by the ATTORNEY'S finn
(including paralegals, employees of AITORNEY with their titles, subcontractors, independent
contractors, temporary employees, and outsourcing providers). Persormel who are not listed as
additional timekeepers will not be paid unless approved in writing the requirements of this
Agreement.
7.2.3 Time Records
Record the time expended by each time.keeper separately. In those situations where the minimum
billing increment exceeds the actual time spent on a task and several of these "minor" tasks are
performed, it is expected that the services will be aggregated until the total actual time spent
meets the minimum billing increment.
7.2.4 Totals and By Task
State the amount of time expended by each time-keeper broken down for each task.
7.2.5 Summarv of Rates
In a summary at the begirming or end of the bill, provide the CUlTent hourly rate for each time-
keeper, the total time billed by each time-keeper in that bill, the product of the total time and
hourly rate for each time-keeper, the total fees charged, and are reconciliation between the
amount charged and any applicable estimated or budgeted amount, by task. In addition, each
monthly statement should show the aggregate billing for that matter from the commencement of
the matter through the cunently-billed month.
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7.3. Expenses
COUNTY will pay the actual, reasonable cost of the following expense items ifincurred in
accordance with the guidelines below and promptly itemized in A TIORNEY'S monthly bill:
7.3.1 Reimbursable expenses
Actual cost for necessary long distance telephone calls, telecopying at $.25 per outgoing page,
overnight or expedited delivery, couriers, photocopying at $.15 per page, postage, court fees, and
other expenses approved in advance by COUNTY or as listed below:
7.3.1.1. Expedited or ernerl!:encv services
ATTORNEY is expected to avoid using expedited or emergency services, such as express
delivery services, couriers, telecopying, overtime, and so on, 1lllless necessmy because of
unexpected developments or extremely short deadlines. COUNTY may refuse to pay for any such
expenses when incurred routinely or because of ATTORNEY'S failure to manage the matter
efficiently.
7,3.1.2. Computerized research
A TIORNEY is expected to use computerized research services cost-effectively to reduce time
spent on research, for example, while closely~monitoring computerized research to insure that the
charges are reasonable and necessary. ATIORNEY is expected to pass through to COUNTY any
discounts or other arrangements that reduce the cost of computerized services.
7.3.1.3. Photoco,p.nng
A TIORNEY is encowaged to use outside copying services to reduce the oost of large-volume
copying, provided that these expenses are efficient, cost-effective, and incurred and billed in
accordance with this Agreement. AITORNEY is responsible for insuring that all copying
complies with copyright obligations.
7.3.1.4. Transcripts
Transcripts should not be ordered without prior approval from COUNTY. Transcripts should not
be ordered on an expedited basis unless necessary and approved in advance by COUNTY.
ATIORNEY should obtain digital electronic/computerized copies of transcripts when available
at a reasonable cost to avoid charging for time spent digesting or indexing transcripts, and to
allow COUNTY to maintain a digital electronic/computerized database of all transcripts.
7.3.1.5 Travel EXDenses
Travel expenses within the A ITORNEY'S local or metropolitan area will not be reimbursed and
time in transit is not billable. Local and Metropolitan area is defined as being within fifty (50)
miles of the ATTORNEY'S usual office space an does not include travel to or from the residence
to the office.Travel expenses outside the metropolitan area may only be reimbursed if the travel
was approved in advance by COUNTY. Reimbursable travel expenses, if approved in advance,
are the cost of transportation by the least expensive practicable means (e.g., coach class air
travel). the cost of reasonable hotel accommodations, and the cost of transportation while out of
town (e.g., by cab or rental car, whichever seems reasonable, at the lowest available rate). Travel
expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Florida Statute
112.321 and of the Monroe County Code for "approved travelers" and shall be summarized on
the Monroe County Travel Ponn by ATIORNEY with all applicable receipts attached thereto.
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7.3.1.6 Travel Time
Time spent in transit outside the ATTORNEY'S local area may be billed only if ATTORNEY or
time-keeper is unable to avoid traveling by using other fonns of communication or it is
determined by COUNTY and AITORNEY that travel is in the best interest of COUNTY with
prior approval of COUNTY. Travel by more than one time-keeper at the same time to the same
destination in not allowed without prior written approval by COUNTY. Approved travel time
during time-keeper's normal business hours will be billed at the hourly rate listed for the time-
keeper in paragraph 6.3 of this Agreement. Approved travel time outside of time-keeper's normal
business hours will be billed at one-half the hourly rate listed for the timekeeper in paragraph 6.3
of this Agreement
7.3.2. Non-reimbursable exp.enses
The following expenses will in no event be reimbursable without prior written approval by
County Attorney and approval by the Board of County Commissioners.
7.3.2.1. Personal and Office Co...sts
Meals for time-keepers not related to travel, overtime, word processing or computer charges,
personal expenses. expenses that benefited other clients. expenses for books. costs of temporary
employees, periodicals or other library materials, internal filing or other document handling
charges, clerical expenses, stationery and other supply expenses. utilities, and any other expense
that is either I.mfeasonable or unnecessary. (The fact that A'ITORNEY charges other clients or
that other f1nns charge their clients for an expense does not make it reasonable or necessary under
this Agreement.)
7.3.2.2. Experts. consultants. SUDDort services. outsoUlced services. etc.
ATTORNEY is not authorized to retain experts, additional counsel, consultants, support services,
or the like. or to out source or delegate work outside ATTORNEY'S law firm, without prior
written approval by County Attorney and approval by the Board of County Commissioners. If
agreed to ATTORNEY will be responsible for selecting and managing the services of others so
that their services and expenses will be rendered in accordance with the terms orthis Agreement,
including tenns applicable to ATIORNEY. AITORNEY will manage others to obtain cost
effective services for COUNTY. Unless otherwise agreed in writing. ATTORNEY shall obtain a
written retainer agreement, in a fonn which may be specified by COUNTY, from each service
provider. with bills from each provider being sent to both ATTORNEY and COUNTY.
7.3.2.3 hrnoorazy Staffing
A TIORNEY will not bill COUNTY for the time and expenses of temporary employees,
including so-called "Temps" or contract A ITORNEYS or other staff from outside companies,
nor "outsource" or delegate work, nor charge for swnmer associates, law clerks, or student
clerks, (collectively "temporary staft" even ifnot temporarily employed) without full advance
disclosure of the employee's temporary or short-term status to COUNTY, including disclosure of
the actual amount paid or to be paid to the individual. Unless COUNTY e~pressly agrees in
writing to paying additional amounts after full disclosure by ATIORNEY, ATIORNEY rnay not
charge COUNlY more than the actual cost paid by ATIORNEY.
7.3.2.4. Exoenses not passed throu2h at actual cost
COUNTY will not pay any markup for expenses. COUNTY will only reimburse the
A TIORNEY for their actual approved out-of-pocket costs and expenses, whether incurred
personally by an approved time-keeper or incurred by other approved petSonnel (such as experts,
consultants, support services personnel, or outsourced services personnel).
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7.3.2.5. Overhead not charged to County
COUNTY will not pay for any "expense" items that are in fact part of ATTORNEY'S overhead
which should be included within AlTORNEY'S fee, the determination of which expenses fall
into this category are strictly within the discretion of the COUNTY.
7.3.3. Advance aDDroval of expenses
In addition to the items noted above, ATTORNEY shall obtain advance approval from COUNTY
before incwring any expense in excess of $1 ,000.00 if A TIORNEY expects to be reimbursed for
that expense. COUNTY may refuse to pay any expense for which advance approval was not
obtained by ATTORNEY.
7.3.4. CODies ofreceints for exnenses
AITORNEY shall include copies of receipts for all expenses with the itemized monthly bill.
COUNTY may refuse to pay any expense item for which documentation is not provided by
ATIORNEY.
7.3.5, ExnellSes (and fees) after termination
Upon tennination of the representation, ATIORNEY shall promptly bill COUNTY for any
remaining reimbursable expenses and fees, COUNTY may refuse to pay any fees or expenses not
billed within 45 days of termination of the representation. ATIORNEY is also expected to
cooperate promptly with all aspects of termination and, if applicable, transition to other counsel.
Payment for fees and expenses is contingent upon prompt, full cooperation.
7.4. Bill and expense documentation
ATTORNEY must maintain support documentation for services and bills until at least one year
after the termination of the representation. This documentation shall be made available by
A TIORNEY to COUNTY (or COUNTY'S designated representative, including an accountant,
the COWlty Clerk or County Clerk's representative, or legal bill auditOt') upon COUNTY'S
written request. A TIORNEY agrees to cooperate with any examination of this documentation
and ATfORNEY'S fees and expenses, e.g., by responding promptly and completely to any
questions COUNTY or its designated representative may have. AITORNEY shall notify
COUNTY in writing at least 60 da.ys in advance of destroying any such records and, in the event
that COUNTY requests that they be preserved, shall preserve them at least one additional year or,
at the option of the COUNTY, delivered to the COUNTY for storage by the COUNTY, with
COUNTY responsible for paying the actual cost of storage. This documentation shall include, fOT
example, original time records, expense receipts, and documentation supporting the amount
charged by A TIORNEY for expense items generated by A TIORNEY or his or her finn.
COUNTY reserves the right not to pay any fee or expense item for which sufficient
documentation or expense item for which sufficient documentation is not available to determine
whether the item was necessary and reasonable.
8. PAYMENT TERMS
ATTORNEY'S request for payments and reimbursements may be made in either the
ATIORNEY'S name or the name of the ATIORNEY'S law firm, as appropriate. ATIORNEY
bills complying with this Agreement are due and payable according to the Prompt Payment Act.
If the bill materially fails to comply with the requirements of this Agreement, then it is not due
and payable until its deficiencies are remedied by A'lTORNEY,
9, MATTER MANAGEMENT
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COUNTY will expect that all communications between AITORNEY, and additional time
keepers, and COUNTY will be reviewed by A'ITORNEY and that ATIORNEY will serve as the
point of contact for this matter, including billing questions.
9.1. Case monitoring
COUNTY will be advised promptly by A TIORNEY of all significant facts and developments in
the matter so that COUN1Y may manage the matter effectively and make informed decisions
about strategy, tactics, settlement, scheduling, costs, and other related matters. COUNTY will
promptly receive from ATTORNEY copies of all orders, opinions, pleadings, briefs, memoranda
(internal and extemal), correspondence, and any other document material to the subject matter of
this Agreement, such that the COUNTY will have a current. up-to-date, "mirror" copy of the
COUNTY'S file maintained by ATIORNEY. For discovery materials or exhibits that are
lengthy, A TIORNEY should discuss them with COUNTY before providing a copy. Documents
available in digital electronic/computerized form should be provided in that form in lieu of paper
copies if requested by COUNTY. Additionally, ATTORNEY may be required to submit, on a
monthly basis, a case status and progress report to be subnritted to the Board of COUNTY
Commissioners. The format of the report shall be in the form required by the COUNTY
ATIORNEY.
9.2. Case control
ATTORNEY shall discuss all significant issues of strategy and tactics, including motions,
discovery, pleadings, briefs, trial preparation, experts, and settlement, with COUNlY before
implementation. AITORNEY is expected to exercise independent professional judgment.
9.3. ATIORNEY cooperation
A TIORNEY will cooperate with COUNI'Y or COUNTY'S representatives to promptly provide
all infonnation COUNTY requests or needs about the subject matter of this Agreement and
A TIORNEY' S bills and handling of the matter.
9.4. COUNTY cooperation
ATIORNEY should consult with COUNfY about all opportwrities for COUNTY to save money
or make use of COUNTY'S expertise to assist in, e.g., responding to discovery, preparing for
trial, locating experts, and the like. COUN1Y may also have personnel and facilities available to
reduce the expenses related to the subject matter of this Agreement.
to. CONFIDENTIALITY AND PUBliC RELA nONS
A TIORNEY is not authorized to waive or release any privilege or otheT protection of
information - confidential, secret, or otherwise - obtained from or on behalf of COUNI'Y.
ATTORNEY is to keep all confidential, privileged, or secret information confidential. This
requirement is perpetual, i.e., it will continue even after the termination of the relationship and
this Agreement.
10.1 Prohibition allain6t use of in formation
This requirement is also intended to prohibit AITORNEY from using information obtained from
or on behalf of COUNTY, including work product prepared at COUNTY'S expense, for other
client's of ATI'ORNEY or his or her flml, without COUNTY'S advance Mitten approval.
10.2 No use of County for madceting pUIJ'oses
A TIORNEY is not authorized to identitY COUNTY as a COUNTY, e.g., for purposes of
marketing or advertising, without COUNTY'S prior approval.
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11. OWNERSHIP OF AITORNEY FILES AND WORK PRODUCT
AITORNEY understands that all files and work product prepared by ATTORNEY or his or her
!inn at the expense of COUNTY (Of for which COUNTY is otherwise billed) is the property of
COUNTY, Without COUNTY'S prior written approval, this work product may not be used by
A TIORNEY or his or her firm nor disclosed by A TIORNEY or his or her firm to others, except
in the normal course of ATTORNEY'S representation of COUNTY in this matter. ATTORNEY
agrees that COUNfY owns all rights, including copyrights, to materials prepared by COUNTY
or by ATTORNEY on behalf of COUNTY. ATTORNEY shall notifY COUNTY in writing at
least 60 days in advance of destroying any such records and, in the event that COUNTY requests
that they be preserved, shall preserve them at least one additional year (with COUNTY
responsible for paying the actual cost of storage). ATfORNEY shall provide COUNTY with
prompt access to (including the ability to make copies of) all ATTORNEY files and work
product, regardless of whether the representation or matter is ongoing and whether A TIORNEY
fees and expenses have been paid in full.
12. DISPUTE E.ESOLlITIQN
ATTORNEY and COUNTY agree that if a dispute arises between them that neither shall be
required to enter into any arbitration proceedings related to this Agreement
12.1. Disputes regarding Attorney fees or expenses
AITORNEY and COUNTY agree that all disputes regarding AITORNEY'S fees or expenses
are to be resolved pursuant to the procedures and practices for mediation by the Attorney
Consumer Assistance Program of the Florida Bar.
12.2. DiSl'utes regarding interJlretati.on
COUNTY and A TIORNEY agree that all disputes and disagreements between them regarding
interpretation of the Agreement shall be attempted to be resolved by a meet and confer session
between representatives of COUNTY and ATTORNEY, If the issue or issues are still not
resolved to the satisfaction of both within thirty (30) days after the meet and confer session, then
either shall have the right to terminate the Agreement upon ten (10) business days notice in
writing to the other party.
12.3 Legal or Administrative procedures
In the event any administrative or legal proceeding is instituted against either the COUNTY or
A TIORNEY relating to the formation, execution, performance, or breach of this Agreement.
the COUNTY and ATTORNEY each agree to participate, to the extent required by the other, in
all proceedings, hearings, processes, meetings, and other activities related to the substance of
this Agreement; institution of any administrative or legal proceeding shall constitute immediate
termination of this Agreement. A'ITORNEY agrees to forward copies of all documents in his or
her possession related to the -matter which is the subject of this Agreement to COUNTY at the time
of filing any administrative or legal proceeding.
12.4 ATIORNEY'S Fees and Costs
In the event any administrative proceeding or cause of action is initiated or defended by the
COUNTY or AITORNEY relative to the enforcement or interpretation of this Agreement, the
prevailing party shall be entitled to an award of reasonable ATIORNEY'S fees, court costs,
investigative, and outuof-pocket expenses, as an award against the non-prevailing party, and shall
include reasonable ATIORNEY'S fees. court costs, investigative, and out-of-pocket expenses in
appellate proceedings. Mediation proceedings initiated and conducted pursuant to this Agreement
or as may be required by a court of competent jurisdiction shall be conducted in accordance with
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the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure and the usual and custom8Iy procedures required by the
circuit court of Monroe County and shall take place in Monroe County.
13. NOTICE REQUIREMENT
Any notice required or pennitted under this agreement shall be in writing and hand delivered or
mailed, postage prepaid, to the other party by certified mail, returned receipt requested, to the
fOllowing:
FOR COUNTY
County Administrator and
500 Whitehead Street
Key West, FL. 33041
FOR ATIORNEY
Edwin A. Scales, Esq.
201 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-292-8950
County Attorney
PO Box 1026
Key West, FL 33040
14. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE
This Agreement shall be governed by and constnIed in accordance with the laws of the State of
Florida applicable to contracts made and to be perfonned entirely in the State. Venue for any
legal action which may arise out of or under this agreement shall be in Monroe County, Florida.
IS. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
The entire agreement between the COUNTY and AITORNEY with respect to the subject matter
hereof is contained in this Agreement. This Agreement supersedes all prior oral and written
proposals and communications between the COUNTY and A TIORNEY related to this
Agreement. No provision of this Agreement shall be deemed waived, amended Or modified by
either party lIDless such waiver, amendment or modification is in writing and signed by the party
against whom the waiver, amendment or modification is claimed. This Agreement shall be
binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto, their permitted successors and assigns.
16. FLORIDA GOVERNMENf-lN-THE-SUNSHJNE LAW
A TIORNEY agrees that, unless specifically exempted or excepted by Florida law, the provisions
of Chapter 120, Florida Statutes, generally require full and public discussion of matters to be
voted upon by the Board of County Commissioners. ATIORNEY agrees to consult with the
County Attorney's office concerning the application of the Sunshine Law from time to time
concerning specific circumstances that may arise during the term of this Agreement.
17. FLORIDA PUBLIC RECORDS LAW
A TIORNEY agx-ees that, unless specifically exempted or excepted by Florida law or Rules and
Regulations of The Florida Bar, the provisions of Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, generally require
public access to all records and documents which may be made or received under this Agreement.
ATTORNEY agrees to consult with the County Attorney's office ooncerning the application of
the Public Records Law from time to time concerning specific circumstances that may arise
during the term of this Agreement.
18. NO ASSIGNMENTS
A TIORNEY shall not assign or subcontract its obligations under this agreement, except in
writing and with the prior written approval of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe
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County, which approval shall be subject to such conditions and provisions as the Board may
deem necessary. This paragraph shall be incorporated by reference into any assignment Of
subcontract and any assignee or subcontractor shall comply with all of the provisions of this
Agreement. Unless expressly provided for therein, such approval shall in no manner or event be
deemed to impose any additional obligation upon the Board.
19. TERMINATION
Either of the parties hereto may tenninate this contract without cause by giving the other party
fifteen (15) business days written notice of its intention to do so.
19.1 Documents forwarded to COUNTY
ATTORNEY agrees to forward to COUNTY along with Notice of Termination or upon receipt of
Notice of Tennination, depending upon which party tenninates the Agreement, oopies of all
documents in his or her possession of any nature whatsoever related to the ATTORNEYS
representation of COUNTY or obtained due to ATTORNEY'S representation ofCOUNlY.
19.2 Restriction on Communications
A TIORNEY agrees not to commWlicate with the public, including the press, about COUNTY or
about this matter.
20. SEVERABILITY
If a term, covenant, condition or provision of this Agreement shall be declared invalid or
Wlenforceable to any extent by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining tenns, covenants,
conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby; and each remaining
tenn, covenant, condition and provision of this Agreement shall be valid and shall be enforceable
to the fullest extent permitted by law unless the enforcement of the remaining terms, covenants,
conditions and provision of this Agreement would prevent the accomplishment of tile original
intent of this Agreement. The COUNTY and A TIORNEY agree to reform the Agreement to
replace any stricken provision with a valid provision that comes as close as possible to the intent
of the stricken provision.
21. CAPTIONS
The captions set forth herein are for convenience of reference only and shall not define, modify,
or limit any of the terms hereof.
22. LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSmILITIES: NON-DELEGATION OF
CONSTmJTIONAL OR STATIJTORY DUTIES
This Agreement is not intended to relieve, nor shall it be construed as relieving, either the
COUNTY or ATTORNEY from any obligation or responsibility imposed upon each by law
except to the extent of actual and timely performance thereof by the other, in which case the
perfonnance may be offered in satisfaction of the obligation or responsibility. Further this
Agreement is not intended to authorize, nor shall it be construed as authorizing, the delegation of
the constitutional or statutory duties ofthe COUNTY, except to the extent permitted by the
Florida Constitution, state statutes, case law, and, specifically, the provisions of Chapter 125,
Florida Statutes.
23. RECORDS
A TIORNEY shall maintain all books, records, and documents directly pertinent to performance
under this Agreement, including the documents referred to in this Agreement, in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, consistently applied. Upon ten (10) business days
written notice to the other, representatives of eithCT the COUNTY or A TIORNEY shall have
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~ccess, ~t all reas~nable times, to all the other party's books, records) correspondence,
mstructions, receIpts, vouchers and memoranda (excluding computer software) pertaining to
work under this Agreement for the purpose of conducting a complete independent fiscal audit.
A TIORNEY shall retain all records required to be kept under this Agreement fOf a minimum of
five years, and for at least four years after the tennination of this agreement. AITORNEY shall
keep such records as are necessary to document the perfonnance of the agreement and expenses
as incurred) and live access to these records at the request of the COUNTY, the State of Florida
or authorized agents and representatives of said government bodies, It is the responsibility of
ATTORNEY to maintain appropriate records to insure a proper accounting of all collections and
remittances. AlTORNEY shall be responsible for repayment of any and all audit exceptions
which are identified by the Auditor General for the State of Florida, the Clerk of Court for
Monroe County, the Board of County Commissioners for Monroe County, Or their agents and
representatives.
24. PUBLIC ACCESS
The COUNTY and ATTORNEY shall allow and pennjt reasonable access to and inspection of,
all documents, papers, letters, or other materials subject to the Florida Public Records Law, as
provided in Chapter 119, Florida Statutes) and made or received by the them, unless specifically
exempted by State Statute, Rules and Regulations of The Florida Bar, or case law. COUNTY
shall have the right to cancel this agreement upon violation of this pl'ovision by ATTORNEY,
25. MONROE COUNTY CODE EnneS PROVISION
A ITORNEY warrants that he or she has not employed. retained or otherwise had act on his
behalf any former COUNTY officer or employee in violation of Section 2 of Ordinance No. 10-
1990 or any COUNIY officer or employee in violation of Section 3 of Ordinance No. 10 1990.
For breach or violation of this provision the COUN1Y may, at its discretion, tenninate this
Agreement without liability and may also, at its discretion, deduct from the sums owed under the
Agreement, or otherwise recover, the full amount of any fee, oommission, percentage, gift, or
consideration paid to the fonner or present COUNTY officer or employee. COUNTY employees
and officers are required to comply with the standards of conduct delineated in Section 112.313,
Florida StatutesJ regarding) but not limited to, solicitation or acceptance of gifts, doing business
with one)s agency, unauthorized compensation, and misU5e of public position, conflicting
employment or contractual relationship, and disclosure of certain information.
26. PUBLIC ENTITY CRIME STATEMENT
Florida law provides that person or affiliate who has been placed On the convicted vendor list
following a conviction for publio entity crime may not submit a bid on an agreement to provide
any goods or services to a public entity, may not submit a bid on a agreement with a public entity
for the construction or repair oca public building or public work, may not submit bids on leases
of real property to public entity) may not be awarded or perfonn work as a contractor, supplier,
sub contractor, or consultant under a agreement with any public entity, and may not transact
business with any public entity in excess of the threshold amount provided in Section 287.017,
for CATEGORY lWO for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date of being placed on
the convicted vendor list. ATTORNEY warrants the neither ATTORNEY nor any authorized
time keeper has been named to the convicted vendor list.
27. ANTI-KICKBACK
A TIORNEY warrants that no person has been employed or retained to solicit or secure this
Agreement upon any contract or understanding for a commission, percentage, brokerage or
contingent fee, and that no employee or officer of the COUNTY has any interest, financially or
otherwise, in this Agreement, except as expressly stated hetein. For breach or violation of this
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warranty, the COUNTY shall have the right to armul this agreement without liability or, in its
discretion, to deduct any swns to be paid by COUNTY under this Agreement, or otherwise
recover, the full amount of such commission, percentage, brokerage or contingent fee.
28. MODlFICATIONS AND AMENDMENTS
This Agreement may not be modified in any wa.y without the express, written consent of both
parties. Any and all modifications and Amendments of the terms of this Agreement shall be in
writing and executed by the Board of County Commissioners for Monroe COWlty and by
A TIORNEY in the same manner as this Agreement.
29. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
At all times and for all puzposes hereunder, ATIORNEY is an independent contractor and not an
employee of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County. No statement contained in
this Agreement shall be construed so as to find A TIORNEY or any of the authori~d time
keepers, to be the employees of the Board of COUNTY Commissioners of Monroe COlDlty, and
they shall be entitled to none of the rights, privileges or benefits of employees of Monroe County,
30. CDMPLIANCE WITH LAW
In canying out ATIORNEY'S obligations under this agreement, ATIORNEY shall abide by all
statutes, ordinances, roles and regulations pertaining to or regulating the provisions of this
Agreement, including those now in effect and hereafter adopted. My violation of said statutes,
ordinances, rules or regulations shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and shall
entitle COUNTY to terminate this Ag1'eernent immediately upon delivery of written notice of
tennination to ATIORNEY.
31. LICENSING
A TIORNEY watx'ants that A TIORNEY and additional timekeepers do presently have, shall
have prior to commencement of work under this Agreement, and at all times during said work, all
required licenses and pennits whether federal, state, COWlty or City.
32. NON-DISCRIMINATION
A TIORNEY shall not discriminate, in its employment practices and in providing services
hereunder, on the basis ohace, color, sex, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, or age, and shall abide by all federal
and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Upon a detennination by a court of competent
jurisdiction that such discrimination has occurred, this Agreement automatically tenninates
without any further action by the COUNTY, effective the date of the court order. ATTORNEY is
aware of the provisions of Section 13-10 I through 13-106, Monroe County Code, relating to non-
discrimination, and agrees to abide by the Code's nondiscrimination requirements,
33. NON-RELJANCE BY NON-PARTIES
No person or entity shall be entitled to rely upon the terms, or any of them, of this Agreement to
enforce or attempt to enforce any third-party claim or entitlement to or benefit of any service or
program contemplated hereunder, and the COUNTY and A ITORNEY agree that neither the
COUNTY nor A TIORNEY or any officer, agent, or employee of each shall have the authority to
inform, counsel, or otherwise indicate that any particular individual or group of individuals, entity
or entities, have entitlements or benefits under this Agreement separate and apart, inferior to, or
superior to the community in general or for the purposes contemplated under this Agreement
34. AITESTATIONS
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ATrOkNBY agrees to a:xcc;utt 8\1oh &:lcumeats as tt:ur COUNTY rmYW&f~teqnire.
includiDa a Onxg-Fl'ee WOJkplaoe SIa1eD'Jent, W jJ. Public B:zl.tity Crime ~
35.. COtJ}ITV AIJ'I'B'O'R1TV
Thia ~t baa blllln duly notioe4at a 1cp11y lWll pm1ic ~ CQlJd.uctlld.:In Mouroo
Coun~1 P101id1. COUNTY'S parfomumoe IIZ1C1 abli,pliOQ ~ pyundcr *' CODtmct. ia cOllltin,pnt
upcn anobal appropriation.by the Boud of County Comml.llClQaE5,
36. HOLD HARMT.'MS ~ INSUR~CH
Prior to l5XeCUtion ortbia qro~ ATTORNEY s.ha1I.1hmisIl cotJNI'Y C&lIrtifiGlltG, 01
1DSurw:o ~ 1M mfniuuwPtO_b1 ubilit)' covcnp!:lt A'l1'OBNBY _ .dditional
timt-'beper1i in tht$ atDOum of on. nu1liOll dalJerl. ATroRNSY asn- to 'bop the lame elO\mt
af OO~ or nun at all tlme81n4 to provide proof of laid covmge to COUNTY III
CO'ONTY'S '{8quest at my _ cl1Jriq tb6 tetm ot#w ~t.
37. . NO J~~AJ,. UABJUTY'
No covenant cr obltption CDI1taiDa4 ill thie ~t Ihall "- ~ 10 be aCCM!lPant or
ohHgation of any mmlbet, offieer, apt or employee of the Board ofCouDty ~ae:imt- of
Monroe CoUlltyin hili or1rcc inc3Mdua1 ~padty IIU1 DO~. at'Bccr. apQt or ~oyee of
tbb Board. gf County Commis&l~ ofMoIIMS CQunty ,hall be Hable pc:a~y 01\ 1bi$
AliIeoru&Dt or bo subject to Ill)' pen;~lllabili:t)' OX' ~lity by nuon afthe excoution of
un. A&tcemenc.
38. RXSptmOJijN COUN'}.':SRP AlU'S
Thi5 Agrecmeat may be ex.ew:tcd in aayn.umbcr of~ uoh ofw1l1c:h &ell be xeprdo4
... 1ft original, all of whlcl118lctD topther s1>>ill QODIh~z or1Cl rmd the nmo instru:mer1t IDe! fi)o
COUNTY and ATI'ORNEY maygetlUlG tbii ~'by slpinc lfrj mch GOUil!e\'pI:rt.
nus ~wil1 beomms ..mva whca. e:(OGuted. by hoCh 1M AnoaNBY UId
eucun;d by tho Board of Ccunty CommIationOrt cfMontOt CO\mt;y, P'1ari.da.
Board of County Comminioam
OfMootoo County
Aitm;
Dan;ny L. Koblage. Clerk.
By.
~ . .
Ch1r1cl-Scmny" McCoy. MaYor
Date:
DdplUY Clerk
Datl:
W'ttn_ to AiL'OllNEY:
Signature
PriDt Nrnue
Address:
PA1'B:
~
~~
Bn4 :.-- .. all. Jr., ......ont,
Print~ ~~''''',1llo'''~
DATE:
14
TOTAL P.15