Standards and requirements for contracts with subcontracting entities. (1) The Oregon Public Defense Commission may enter into a contract with an entity that subcontracts with other entities or persons for the provision of public defense services only if the entity operates in accordance with standards and requirements established by the commission either through adopted policies or contract language approved by the Department of Justice

(2) The standards and requirements described in subsection (1) of this section must include, but are not limited to:

(a) A requirement that the entity have a designated administrator with authority to manage case distribution, address concerns and complaints and serve as the point contact for external matters;

(b) A requirement that the entity have defined policies concerning membership structure, including policies on admission criteria, participation expectations and decision-making authority;

(c) A requirement that the entity have internal policies and procedures for conflict resolution, ethical compliance and the removal of members due to misconduct or nonparticipation;

(d) A requirement that the entity comply with commission oversight, reporting requirements and other applicable policies and procedures of the commission; and

(e) A requirement that the entity hold regular meetings among its members or governing body, as appropriate for its size and structure.

(3) The standards and requirements described in subsection (1) of this section for an entity with five or more attorney members must additionally include a requirement that the entity have a board of directors or a steering committee with responsibilities that include but are not limited to the following:

(a) The approval of entity policies, budgets and initiatives;

(b) Ensuring attorney performance and compliance with legal and financial obligations;

(c) Oversight of the administrator; and

(d) Resolving disputes among members of the entity. [2025 c.569 §10]

Note: 151.223 becomes operative July 1, 2027. See section 11, chapter 569, Oregon Laws 2025.

Note: See note under 151.211.