2026 Expert Edge | Intro to Government Contracts

The 2026 Expert Edge session titled "Intro to Government Contracts" is an interactive virtual event organized by the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD). This session is designed to help in-house leaders understand the unique aspects of government contracting compared to commercial norms and how these differences impact daily advising, risk assessment, and strategic decision-making.

Key topics include negotiation strategies across various contract types and government frameworks, illustrated through practical hypotheticals and real-world examples. The session will also address current issues affecting government contractors, such as the evolving use of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity concerns, and the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion considerations in government procurement. Additionally, participants will gain insights into significant changes in procurement policy and practice, including trends toward commerciality, small business issues, cost accounting implications, and recent amendments under the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.

The session is accredited for Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits in California, Illinois, and New York for both newly admitted and experienced attorneys. Credit applications for other jurisdictions are available upon request, though approval cannot be guaranteed. For specific CLE credit inquiries, attendees are encouraged to contact the LCLD directly.

This event is tailored for LCLD Alumni holding General Counsel (GC), Chief Legal Officer (CLO), or Deputy GC titles, as well as in-house alumni with 15 or more years of experience. It offers a valuable opportunity for seasoned legal professionals to deepen their understanding of government contracts and stay informed about current trends and challenges in the field.