Title
Approval of the List of Qualified Law Firms to Represent the City of Gainesville in Litigated Worker's Compensation Claims (NB)
This item involves establishing a list of qualified firms to represent the City of Gainesville in litigated worker's compensation claims.
Explanation
The City recently went through a Request for Qualification (RFQ) process to qualify outside counsel to represent the City of Gainesville with respect to litigated worker's compensation claims. Five firms responded to the RFQ, and after a review by Risk Management and City Attorney's staff, the following firms were selected as qualified based on the criteria set forth in the RFQ.
1) James Spears, Esquire - Broussard, Cullen, DeGailler & Eagan, P.A.
2) Mark Gelman, Esquire - Eraclides, Johns, Hall, Gelman, Johannessen & Kempner, L.L.P.
3) Derrick Cox, Esquire - Hurley, Rogner, Miller, Cox, Waranch & Westcott, P.A.
4) Sean O'Connor, Esquire - McConnaughhay, Duffy, Coonrod, Pope and Weaver, P.A.
5) Mitchell Feldman, Esquire - Silver, Levy, Feldman & Bass P.A
The number of litigated files assigned to outside counsel will fluctuate depending on the volume and complexity of the files. The ability to have multiple firms available will enhance the City's ability to effectively manage the litigated files.
Fiscal Note
The funds necessary to fund outside counsel are included in the Worker's Compensation Budget in the General Insurance Fund.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the firms listed above for use in the defense of the City's Workers' Compensation cases as outlined in the Request for Qualifications; and 2) authorize the City Manager to execute the documents necessary to effectuate the recommendation subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.