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Approve a contract with Thomson Reuters (dba West Publishing Corporation) in an amount not to exceed $226,289 for Westlaw online legal research services for the term of January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028; and Delegate authority to the County Administrator to execute the contract and any amendments with County Counsel concurrence up to an aggregate amount of $74,999
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
County Counsel recommends that the Board of Supervisor:
1. Approve a contract with West Publishing Corporation (doing business as Thomson Reuters) in an amount not to exceed $226,289 for Westlaw online legal research services for the term January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028; and
2. Delegate authority to the County Administrator to execute the contract and any amendments with County Counsel concurrence up to an aggregate amount of $74,999.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
County Counsel requests Board approval of a contract with West Publishing Corporation for Westlaw, an essential online legal research platform used to support the delivery of timely and accurate legal services.
The Office of County Counsel provides comprehensive legal advice and representation to all County departments, as well as various independent local agencies and special districts. The office supports a broad and diverse caseload, including juvenile dependency matters, conservatorships and probate proceedings, labor and employment issues, grievance arbitration, litigation, public safety, contracting, zoning and land use, building matters, environmental health, and code enforcement.
Given this wide range of practice areas, County Counsel functions similarly to a full-service public law firm and requires access to reliable, current, and comprehensive legal research tools. Westlaw enhances the office’s ability to efficiently perform legal research, stay current with evolving law, and effectively represent the County’s interests.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The FY2025/26 cost for Westlaw online legal research services of $35,540 is included within the department’s FY2025/26 Working Budget. The future costs of $73,212 for FY2026/27, $77,605 for FY2027/28, and $39,932 for FY2028/29 and will be included in future Requested Budgets.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board may choose not to approve the contract. However, this is not recommended, as access to Westlaw is necessary for County Counsel to provide effective, timely, and comprehensive legal services.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION