This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 5-3-3b, to the Code of West Virginia, 1931, which establishes oversight by the Attorney General regarding the hiring of private attorneys by political subdivisions under contingency fee arrangements. The bill outlines definitions, procedures for pre-formation and post-approval of contracts, and requirements for public disclosure of information related to these contracts. It mandates that political subdivisions must provide written notice to the public detailing the reasons for hiring a private attorney, the qualifications of the attorney, and the financial resources available to handle the legal matter internally. Additionally, the Attorney General must approve any contingency fee legal arrangement before it becomes effective.

The bill also includes provisions for indemnification, public information requirements, and the rights and obligations of both the political subdivisions and the contracted attorneys. It specifies that contracts entered into in violation of this section are void and outlines the process for payment and supervision of contracted attorneys. The changes made by this amendment will only apply to contracts or amendments entered into after the effective date of the new section. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the hiring of private attorneys by political subdivisions in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-3-3b