In the realm of legal protests, understanding the factors that can contribute to a successful outcome is essential. As reported by Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP, the GAO’s newly released statistics for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY 23) offer valuable insights into this area.
In FY23, the GAO saw an influx of cases – up by 22% from the previous year, with a total of 2,025 cases. This represents a significant upward trend in protests, a shift echoed in the number of hearings conducted. Where GAO conducted only two hearings in the previous year, FY23 saw this number skyrocket to 22 cases. The increase signals the growing gravity and frequency of such disputes.
However, it is not enough to simply note the increase; understanding the underpinnings of successful protests is just as significant. To delve into the ‘why’ behind successful protests, the Sheppard Mullin team reportedly analyzed every published decision in which the GAO sustained a protest in FY23. The insights gleaned from this comprehensive review have immense potential to guide future litigants and legal teams in their pursuit of successful protest outcomes.
It is nuances such as these – right within the heart of legal statistics – that can offer invaluable insights into future strategies. About what works when it comes to protests, and significantly, what doesn’t. In the coming years, it may become increasingly important for legal professionals to keep a weather eye on these trends, and chart their own courses accordingly.