Lincoln University’s Office of the General Counsel provides support to the University in the contracting process.
To assist the ease of departments entering into contracts for revising services, the OGC has developed several Lincoln University standard form contract documents.
The OGC is knowledgeable of the University’s policies and state and federal regulations that govern each transaction.
Faculty and staff may use the information provided below to find the Lincoln contracting office guide for reviewing and managing a contract.
1. What is a Contract/MOU/ Partnership Agreement?
A Contract, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), or Partnership Agreement is a formal, written document that outlines the terms and conditions between two or more parties who are entering into a business or collaborative relationship.
2. What is a contract review process?
The contract review process is the procedure of examining the terms, conditions, and language of a contract to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with the organization’s interests, legal requirements, and policies. The goal is to identify potential risks, ensure compliance, and confirm that all obligations and benefits are clearly stated before the agreement is signed.
The standard review period is 10 business days. If there is a need for expedited review, please ensure that the expedition request is clearly indicated when submitting the contract for processing.
3. Who typically conducts the contract review process?
The contract review process at Lincoln University is typically conducted by the Office of Finance & Administration, the Office of Purchasing, or the Office of Information Technology, depending on the structure and subject matter of the contract. The Office of Purchasing reviews the document for budgetary, procedural, and operational considerations to ensure alignment with University policies and fiscal responsibility.
The Office of the General Counsel reviews the contract to identify and mitigate any potential legal risks or issues.
Final approval and execution authority rest with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the University.
4. Can a contract be rejected or modified during the review process?
Yes. During the review process, a contract can be rejected, revised, or negotiated if the terms are unfavorable, unclear, or inconsistent with the University’s policies or legal obligations. The reviewing party may propose modifications or clarifications to protect the University’s interests before the final version is approved and executed.
This procedure is intended to ensure that all agreements obligating the University are properly reviewed, approved, and signed prior to implementation.
The procedures below outline the necessary steps:
(1) Complete a Contract Approval Form (CAF)
(2) Email the form with signatures and the contract for review to generalcounsel@lincoln.edu
(3) SEA (Senior Executive Assistant) will respond to you with the receipt of CAF and Contract
(4) SEA will do an initial review for prior approvals. All signatures up to the Vice President must be obtained.
5) After maintaining all prior approvals, the contract will be sent to General Counsel for review.
(6) After review, the General Counsel will approve or reject. If rejected, it will be sent back to the original sender with an explanation.
(7) If approved, it will be sent back with instructions to forward to the CFO or President for final signature authority and execution.
Please find below the contract approval form link as well as instructions for how to complete the form:
