Service Disabled Contracts – SDVOSB Lawyers

Federal law enforcement agencies actively target service disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) companies for government contract and SDVOSB fraud investigations. Violations can result in criminal liability and potential jail time when the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG) initiates an investigation that leads to criminal indictment.

Recently, in Anchorage, four individuals involved in a bribery and fraud scheme to obtain SDVOSB government contracts with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) were sentenced in federal court. This case serves as an example of why having an experienced SDVOSB lawyer on your team is crucial to your success.

A service-disabled veteran-owned small business fraud case can arise at various stages. Federal prosecutors may allege that false information was provided to the VA or SBA during the application process. Cases can also arise from fraudulent information submitted to the government during bidding. Additionally, many cases arise after contract award when the prime contractor violates the limitations on subcontracting rule and conducts what prosecutors call a pass-through to the subcontractor. All of these issues are governed by complex and tricky regulations.

Nationwide Reach – Washington DC and Denver, Colorado Locations

Watson & Associates, LLC, a veteran-owned small business with law offices in Denver, Colorado and Washington, DC, understands the challenges that small businesses face in the SDVOSB Certification procurement marketplace. Our SDVOSB attorneys and criminal defense attorneys for veterans, we provide assistance during litigation when a company’s SDVOSB certification status is challenged in a bid protest or if the SBA or VA issues an adverse decision.

• We represent small businesses in all states involved in federal contract cases

SDVOSB companies face several legal issues that can complicate their business operations. Disputes may arise due to small business compliance or procurement fraud investigations. Having attorneys who understand the substantive issues can make a significant difference.

SDVOSB Certification Lawyer Services

Watson & Associates, LLC’s SDVOSB lawyers and government contracting small business lawyers represent service-disabled veteran small business contractors across the United States. We assist them in avoiding frequent and costly legal mistakes during the contract performance stage and litigation.

As VA Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Attorneys, Our Legal Services Include

Help with the service disabled veteran-owned small business program application disputes; VA government contracts;  CVE SDVOSB Bid Protests;  Government investigations; SDVOSB fraud allegations; SDVOSB Bid protests; Teaming agreements; VA SDVOSB Joint venture agreements; Small Business size protests and size determinations; SDVOSB mergers and acquisitions; Government Contract claims; SDVOSB Construction contracts ; NAICS Appeals to OHA; Limitations of subcontracting and relationships with large businesses; Suspension and Debarment; Government contract consulting services.

To speak with experienced government small business contract lawyers about bid protests, claims, SBA and VA SDVOSB fraud investigations, or appeals, call 1-866-601-5518 for a free initial consultation.

To be eligible for VA contracts for service-disabled veterans, your business must meet certain requirements. The veteran-owned business must have a service-connected disability determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Department of Defense. The business must also qualify as small under the assigned NAICS code and have unconditional ownership of at least 51% by the SDVOSB. Additionally, the qualifying member must control the management and daily operations, and hold the highest officer position.

When applying for SDVOSB status, it is crucial to ensure that all regulatory certification requirements are met before applying to the VA.

At Watson & Associates, LLC, we can assist with disputes involving service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. We understand the importance of showing ultimate control over the business and having the ability to make critical day-to-day decisions. Anything short of ultimate control can result in criminal investigations, intrusive accounting, and oversight by the VA IG team. Our SDVOSB attorneys are well-equipped to help in these areas.

SDVOSB self-certification can be done by updating the socio-economic status section of your business profile at SAM.gov. The federal government aims to award at least 3% of government contracting dollars to SDVOSB companies each year. While the Small Business Administration (SBA) has resumed control of program qualifications, SDVOSB self-certification is allowed throughout 2023 to compete for federal contracts. However, the Veterans Administration does not recognize SDVOSB self-certification. If you choose to self-certify, you must still apply for SBA SDVOSB certification by January 1, 2024.

Our SDVOSB government contract attorneys can also provide guidance on VA set-asides and SDVOSB contracting. Whether you have a VA construction contract or a service contract, our team can help you navigate the complexities involved. As experts in the Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Program, we can assist with complex SDVOSB government contract claims, disputes over veteran-owned business designations, and appeals to the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals and Court of Federal Claims regarding the Vets First Verification Program.

SDVOSB joint ventures have specific requirements outlined in 13 CFR Section 125.18. These regulations specify that in order for a business concern to be eligible for an SDVOSB contract, it must submit appropriate representations and certifications to the contracting officer, including confirming its small size status, SDVOSB status, and no material changes affecting its SDVOSB status and eligibility. Joint ventures must also meet additional requirements to be considered an SDVOSB or VOSB concern.

SDVOSB Fraud Lawyers

As SDVOSB and criminal defense attorneys for veterans, we are experienced in representing small companies facing allegations of major fraud against the United States, SDVOSB fraud, False Claims Act violations, or other criminal acts related to government contracting. We can provide representation and defense for contractors charged with or investigated for government contract fraud,false claims, violating the limitations on subcontracting rules, or any other criminal charge associated with government contracting.

Call our SDVOSB lawyers and consultants today for legal advice on VA contracts for disabled veterans, how to get certified, SDVOSB joint venture arrangements, VOSB sole-source contracts, government contract fraud and set-aside disputes, or any other related matters. Reach out to Watson & Associates, LLC at 1-866-601-5518.