TORT FIRM EXPECTATIONS
The tort firm selected will represent Pierce Transit and the Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners in litigation matters related to civil claims for bodily injury, personal injury, property damage and wrongful acts in the conduct of our business activities.

Tort counsel will provide advice and interpretation of tort law as it applies to Pierce Transit. Such information may involve federal law, state and local statutes and ordinances.

Counsel retained will be of the highest quality that will provide objective, competent and conflict free representation. It is expected that counsel will have the skill and expertise to provide Pierce Transit effective representation.

The firm’s assigned counsel will when litigation necessitates, attend work sessions and meetings with Board and staff. When litigation warrants, the tort counsel will work with other assigned counsel.

The term of the contract shall be three (3) years with a provision for two (2) one-year contract extensions. The contract is expected to commence November 1, 2005.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Substantial knowledge and experience in the interpretation of both Federal and State laws as they relate to municipal corporations, municipalities, and Washington State transit agencies as it relates to tort law.
2. Substantial experience in working with public agencies and public boards.
3. Assigned counsel shall be a member of the Washington State Bar and have a minimum of five (5) years experience in all aspects of tort law, including common carrier law.
4. If the selected firm has a potential conflict of interest, the firm shall guarantee it will not represent any plaintiff against Pierce Transit.
5. History of successful defense of public agencies.