Just as with my Quick Hitters on the FAR and GSAR, my Quick Hitter series on the DFARS is meant to simplify contract business with the government. This time with DoD.
DFARS 233.210 Contracting Officer’s Authority
The claims and appeals portion within the contracting arena truly does reflect the power and authority a CO in the government is gifted with proper training and viable experience. They are the proverbial judge and jury so long as they possess a corresponding warrant.
PGI 233.210
The CO should peruse historical trends pertaining to the contractor’s claims. They also may consult the appropriate legal counsel, other contracting activities as well as DCAA.
A CO is far from a telemarketer. The best I had it explained to me from an instructor at the VA Acquisition Academy is that the profession is a mixture between a lawyer and an accountant, but you don’t have to take the BAR exam or the CPA exam.
The only time I truly used a lawyer was with just one of my claims. Otherwise, a simple video conference followed by an email recap is all you need to swing the gavel on one of these decisions. That, of course, assuming you have accumulated the proper knowledge from the facts of the scenario and its supporting documentation.
This process doesn’t have to be a struggle. That being said, if you wanna know what type of personality your CO has then make a disputable claim and email their supervisor with your findings. Some of them can be quite contrarian. Especially if they are under the assumption they haven’t been given enough control.
I would encourage you not to be scared to submit a disputable claim because the government most certainly is not.
If you think I can help you then email nicholas.s.robertson@outlook.com for your introductory email and free consultation. 
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