House Bill No. 449 aims to enhance transparency regarding attorney fees by requiring attorneys, other than the attorney of record, to disclose their interest in a case if they reasonably expect to earn a fee of $1,000 or more. This requirement also extends to attorneys who expect to earn this amount through a business entity, excluding fees for legal services already provided in the case. The bill stipulates that any information disclosed under these provisions will be considered discoverable, and any nondisclosure agreements that prevent such disclosures will be deemed null and unenforceable.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that its provisions do not violate the Uniform Trade Secrets Act. Amendments made during the legislative process included specifying the $1,000 threshold for disclosure and removing the requirement for court officers to file complaints against attorneys who violate these provisions. Overall, the bill seeks to promote accountability and transparency in legal practices concerning attorney fees.