The bill amends West Virginia Code §29-21-13a, focusing on the compensation and procedures for attorneys appointed to represent indigent clients in criminal, juvenile, and abuse and neglect cases, as well as those serving as guardians ad litem. Key provisions include an increase in compensation rates for attorneys, with out-of-court work compensated at $70 per hour and in-court work at $90 per hour. Additionally, the bill mandates that Public Defender Services must provide an annual report summarizing the legal services provided by guardians ad litem, detailing metrics such as the average number of cases handled and the duration of child abuse or neglect proceedings.

The legislation also introduces specific guidelines for the submission and processing of vouchers for attorney fees and expenses, including timelines for submission and notification of rejections or reductions. Notably, it allows for the direct billing of litigation expenses prior to case completion and establishes a framework for interim payments to attorneys after six months of representation. The bill aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the compensation process for public defenders while ensuring that indigent clients receive adequate legal representation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-21-13a
Committee Substitute: 29-21-13a
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 29-21-13a
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 29-21-13a