James N. Rhodes | Attorney | PilieroMazza PLLC , Law Firm, Government Contracts Attorney

Bio

James brings a diverse background in procurement law to PilieroMazza’s Government Contracts Group from his experience in private practice, at a cabinet-level federal agency, and on Capitol Hill. He advises government contractors on regulatory compliance, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency supplements, and participation in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) small business programs. James also represents clients in bid protests, contract disputes, and investigations.

As an extension of his practice, James helps architect, engineering, and construction (A/E/C) companies navigate the complexities of operating in the federal marketplace. Representation includes prime and subcontractor requests for equitable adjustment (REAs) and claims, including those involving complex constructive changes and time impact analysis. James also advises A/E/C companies on subcontracting arrangements, joint ventures, and risk analysis.

Before joining PilieroMazza, James was Senior Procurement Counsel for the Committee on Oversight and Reform at the U.S. House of Representatives. There, he performed oversight of federal contracting across the executive branch and conducted several related investigations. James also drafted legislation on acquisition reform and engaged with high-level government and industry stakeholders on a range of acquisition policy matters.

Previously, James was a procurement attorney for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of General Counsel. During his tenure, James litigated contract disputes before the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (CBCA) and bid protests before the Government Accountability Office (GAO). He advised the agency and its bureaus on all stages of contract formation and administration, including procurements for enterprise information technology (IT), laboratory construction, and for the aircraft and ship fleets of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Before that, James practiced procurement law at two small Washington area law firms.