Legal Services Framework Agreement – EM Lawshare Consortium

West Northamptonshire Council is leading this procurement on behalf of EM Lawshare (EMLS), a consortium of over 240 public sector organisations seeking legal services. This is a competitive procurement conducted under the Procurement Act 2023 using a Light Touch procedure. About the Framework: The new framework agreement will replace the current one expiring 31 March 2026 and will appoint 10 private law firms to provide legal services across 10 areas of work covering all major categories handled by local authorities (excluding childcare). The framework has a maximum total value of £1 billion (exclusive of VAT) over its term. There is no requirement for consortium members to use the framework, and no minimum work is guaranteed. Eligibility: All contracting authorities in England and Wales are eligible to join the consortium to access the framework. Local authorities can join automatically; other contracting authorities require Consortium Board approval. Current members include major councils such as Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, and many others, with 82% being local authorities and parish councils. Key Terms: Appointed firms will pay annual management fees calculated as a percentage of invoiced income (net of VAT and disbursements) on a sliding scale. Firms must provide specified added-value services. Annual indexation applies from year three. The framework is not split into lots, and bidders must be capable of delivering services across all 10 work areas. How to Apply: Organisations must register via the In-Tend Portal at https://in-tendhost.co.uk/wnc/aspx/Home to participate. Tenders must be submitted through the portal by midday Monday 19 October 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted. More information on consortium governance is available at https://emlawshare.co.uk/directory/