This bill amends various sections of the West Virginia Code concerning public defender services and child welfare, particularly focusing on the compensation and reimbursement processes for panel attorneys involved in abuse and neglect cases. It establishes a minimum compensation rate of $100 per hour for legal services provided by panel attorneys and $20 per hour for paralegal services out of court. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for reimbursing expenses incurred by attorneys and paralegals, with specific maximum amounts for travel and investigative services. It mandates that Public Defender Services prioritize processing vouchers for child abuse and neglect cases and requires annual reports summarizing the legal services provided by panel attorneys serving as guardians ad litem.

The bill also clarifies definitions related to juvenile proceedings, such as "assistant guardian ad litem" and "battered parent," and outlines procedures for multidisciplinary treatment planning in child abuse and neglect cases. It emphasizes timely hearings, the right to legal representation, and the responsibilities of guardians ad litem, including regular contact with children. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for the appointment of attorneys for co-petitioning parents and mandates continuing legal education for attorneys in these cases. The bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding child welfare, ensuring the rights of all parties are protected while prioritizing children's safety and well-being.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-21-13a, 49-1-201, 49-4-405, 49-4-601, 49-4-602, 49-4-604, 49-4-608, 49-4-610