The bill amends the West Virginia Code to improve the compensation and continuing education requirements for Guardians Ad Litem (GALs) involved in legal matters concerning children. It mandates that GALs must complete all required continuing education before their appointment and requires them to review case facts, including the minor's injuries and proposed settlements, while filing an opinion on the settlement's alignment with the child's best interests. Additionally, the bill increases compensation rates for panel attorneys serving as GALs in child abuse or neglect cases, detailing the procedures for submitting payment vouchers and emphasizing the need for thorough record-keeping.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the release of claims for injuries to minors, requiring court approval for proposed settlements and ensuring that all related expenses are accounted for. It specifies that net settlement proceeds under $25,000 must be deposited in a regulated financial institution, with conditions for withdrawal upon the minor reaching adulthood. The bill also emphasizes the necessity of continuing legal education, mandating a minimum of eight hours of training on child abuse and neglect procedures for attorneys representing children or serving as GALs. Overall, these changes aim to strengthen the legal framework for child welfare cases, ensuring the protection of minors' rights and the proper management of settlement proceeds.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-21-13a, 44-10-14, 49-4-601