This bill amends and reenacts section 51-1-4a of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to enhance the rules governing the practice of law in the state. It introduces new provisions that outline the Supreme Court of Appeals' authority to prescribe, adopt, and amend rules related to the practice of law, including defining the practice, establishing a code of ethics, and creating the West Virginia State Bar. The bill also clarifies that the inherent rule-making power of the Supreme Court of Appeals is recognized, and any conflicting laws will be rendered ineffective.

Additionally, the bill specifies that records or documents collected under the rules for disciplining attorneys, which are deemed confidential, will not be considered public records and will not be subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. This provision aims to protect sensitive information related to attorney discipline from public access, thereby reinforcing the confidentiality of certain judicial processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 51-1-4a