ITEM TITLE:
Consider approving an agreement for professional services between the City of Lawton and Farzaneh Law Firm, PC for their expertise with immigration law relating to employment visas for select City of Lawton employees and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.
INITIATOR: City Attorney, John Andrew
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: City Attorney, John Andrew
BACKGROUND: The City of Lawton has a current employee that requires an employment visa. The immigration employment visa process is lengthy and complex and requires the expertise of a practicing immigration attorney. Hourly attorney rates vary from $350.00-$495.00 per hour based on attorney’s experience level. Hourly non-attorney rates is $180 per hour. Additionally, the Agreement outlines the potential for additional administrative fees and filing fees. The City Attorney has authority under the agreement to authorize additional hours of work, if necessary.
This agreement will replace the current contract with Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson, LLP, as the partnering attorney is opening his own practice. The rates above are the same rates of the previous agreement with Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson, LLP.
EXHIBIT: Proposed Agreement with Farzaneh Law Firm P.C.
KEY ISSUES: N/A
FUNDING SOURCE: Legal Expense Account #52030.
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Approve an agreement for professional services between the City of Lawton and Farzaneh Law Firm P.C for their expertise with immigration law relating to employment visas and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement.