Suspension & Debarment of Government Contractors

Suspension and debarment are among the most serious consequences a government contractor can face — effectively excluding a company from the federal marketplace for a period of years. The process moves quickly, the stakes are existential, and the procedural rules require experienced counsel who knows how to engage effectively with Suspending and Debarring Officials (SDOs).

Berry & Partners represents government contractors at every stage of the suspension and debarment process: pre-notice strategy when a referral is anticipated, response to show cause letters and notices of proposed debarment, negotiation of administrative agreements, and appeals where appropriate.

We understand that SDOs are making judgments about present responsibility — and that the quality of a contractor's response, including the remedial steps it has taken and the compliance program it has built, is often as important as the underlying facts. We help clients tell that story effectively, and we engage with SDOs in a manner that reflects both the seriousness of the proceeding and the contractor's commitment to responsible business conduct.