Entering the government contracting arena—especially in Maryland’s high-security corridor near NSA and Fort Meade—requires careful planning and strict compliance. Federal agencies and large primes hold contractors to extremely high standards, and even small mistakes at the outset can delay opportunities or jeopardize eligibility. Here are the top five requirements every new government contractor must meet, and how the right attorney can help you succeed.
1. Proper Business Formation & Required Registrations
To do business with the federal government, you must be formally organized and properly registered. This includes forming an LLC or corporation, filing with Maryland SDAT, registering in SAM.gov, securing a CAGE code, and selecting accurate NAICS codes.
How a lawyer helps:
An attorney ensures your entity structure supports government work, protects ownership and control, and avoids pitfalls that can complicate certifications, clearances, or future growth. A lawyer also guides you through SAM.gov and other registration requirements to avoid costly mistakes.
2. Cybersecurity Compliance (NIST SP 800-171 / CMMC)
Cybersecurity is mandatory—not optional. Contractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must document NIST SP 800-171 compliance and prepare for forthcoming CMMC requirements. Primes increasingly require a System Security Plan (SSP) before issuing subcontracts.
How a lawyer helps:
An attorney identifies applicable DFARS clauses, helps draft or review your cybersecurity policies, and ensures your contracts and subcontracts reflect accurate cyber obligations and flow-downs.
3. Understanding and Complying with FAR/DFARS Requirements
Government contracts are governed by the FAR and, for DoD work, DFARS. These regulations impose requirements related to ethics, flow-downs, supply chain integrity, data protection, labor rules, and mandatory reporting.
How a lawyer helps:
Legal counsel ensures your contracts, subcontracts, teaming agreements, and internal policies incorporate the correct FAR/DFARS language. Attorneys also help you avoid clauses that unnecessarily shift risk to your business.
4. Workforce Readiness & Security Clearance Planning
NSA/Fort Meade projects often require cleared personnel or the ability to obtain clearances. Contractors must have strong employment agreements, NDAs, confidentiality procedures, and processes for protecting sensitive information.
How a lawyer helps:
A lawyer drafts legally sound employment agreements, NDAs, and internal protocols that protect IP and sensitive data. Counsel also advises on clearance pathways, key-person requirements, and FOCI issues that could block opportunities.
5. Financial Controls, Accounting Systems & Internal Policies
Government contractors must maintain compliant accounting systems, timekeeping procedures, internal controls, and insurance coverages. DCAA and prime contractors often evaluate whether your business is financially responsible before awarding work.
How a lawyer helps:
An attorney helps you understand contract billing requirements, advises on cost segregation, and structures policies to withstand audits. They also review insurance requirements to ensure coverage aligns with FAR clauses and contract risks.
The Bottom Line
Meeting these five requirements ensures your business is prepared to compete, comply, and grow in the government contracting market. For contractors operating near NSA and Fort Meade, the stakes are even higher—and legal guidance is essential.
Patriots Law Group helps new and established contractors build strong, compliant foundations that support national-security missions while minimizing risk. If you’re ready to enter the federal marketplace, we’re ready to help you get there.
Disclaimer
This blog is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney–client relationship with Patriots Law Group or any of its attorneys. Government contracting requirements are complex and highly fact-specific; you should consult a qualified attorney to obtain advice tailored to your specific business, circumstances, and compliance needs.