Introducing the New Legal Services Framework

Your one-stop legal solution, designed with flexibility in mind

We’re proud to announce the launch of a new national Legal Services Framework, created in partnership with the University of Essex and managed by Dukefield Procurement. This framework is your one-stop shop for legal support across the education and public service sector.

Whether you're a university, school, trust, or any public sector organisation, this is your gateway to high-quality, pre-approved legal expertise, with Dukefield here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Who Can Use the Framework?

This isn’t just for schools. The framework is open to all UK public sector bodies, including:

●       Universities, schools, colleges, academies and trusts

●       Local authorities

●       NHS bodies and health organisations

●       Central government departments

●       Emergency services and police authorities

●       Registered charities, housing providers, and more

What’s Covered? The 7 Framework Lots at a Glance

Here’s a quick snapshot of what each lot covers: simple, clear, and tailored to organisational needs.

Lot 1 – National One Stop Shop
Full-spectrum legal services for education and public sector organisations. If you’re not sure which lot to choose, this is your go-to. Ideal for complex, multi-disciplinary needs.

Lot 2 – HR, Pensions and People
Employment law, pensions, HR advice, equality and diversity, TUPE, safeguarding, and more.

Lot 3 – Academy Conversion and Post-Conversion
Specialist support for schools converting to academies, joining MATs, or changing trust status. Covers contracts, governance, land transfers, TUPE, and more.

Lot 4 – Property
Everything from acquisition, disposal, leases, and planning to complex land or construction matters.

Lot 5 – Commercial, Contracts and Governance
Support on procurement, corporate governance, IP, data protection, franchising, social enterprise and other commercial legal needs.

Lot 6 – Dispute Resolution and Litigation
Litigation, student claims, regulatory challenges, reputation issues, debt recovery, and alternative dispute resolution.

Lot 7 – Legal Services for Education (including HE)
A focused lot just for education institutions, from safeguarding and SEN to academic appeals and regulatory compliance with OfS, ESFA and OIA.

Respected Pre-Approved Legal Suppliers

All suppliers were selected through a rigorous, competitive process based on quality, compliance, service standards, and social value. You’ll be working with leading firms including :

●       Bevan Brittan LLP

●       Eversheds Sutherland LLP

●       Forbes Solicitors

●       Freeths LLP

●       JG Poole & Co LLP

●       Weightmans LLP

●       Stone King LLP

●       Shakespeare Martineau LLP

●       HCR Legal LLP

●       Davitt Jones Bould Ltd

Each firm brings deep sector expertise, many with a long history of supporting schools, colleges, and universities.

For Full Details Visit: Education Legal Services Framework Overview

How to Use the Framework

There are two simple routes:

1. Direct Award – Compare suppliers based on your needs (price, service quality, or social value). If one clearly fits, you can appoint them directly.

2. Further Competition – Need something more complex? Our support service will assist with determining requirements and compilation of specifications, competition documents, and an evaluation model, as well as communicating with suppliers, receiving bids, and presenting findings and recommendations.

And Dukefield is here throughout to answer questions, support procurement, and help you get the best value.

The Benefits

●       Easy access to pre-approved legal providers

●       Fully compliant with UK procurement rules

●       Tailored for education, but open to all public sector organisations

●       Efficient and flexible procurement options

●       Expert support from Dukefield at every stage

●       Value for money and transparent pricing

●       Quality-assured suppliers, rigorously vetted

Ready to Get Started?

We’ve kept the process straightforward, and we're here to help if you need it. Check out the full framework guide here or get in touch with our help desk for one-to-one support.

Email: info@dukefieldprocurement.co.uk

Tel: 0345 900 2877