Bill > SB290

This bill modifies existing Missouri law regarding attorney's fees in administrative agency proceedings by updating definitions and removing a previous cap on hourly attorney fees. The bill defines an "agency proceeding" as an adversarial contested case where the state is represented by counsel, excluding specific types of proceedings like child custody, eminent domain, and tax commission hearings. It clarifies who can be considered a "party" in such proceedings, primarily focusing on individuals or businesses with a net worth under $7 million and fewer than 500 employees. The bill defines "prevailing" as obtaining a favorable order or decision and specifies that "reasonable fees and expenses" include expert witness costs, study expenses, and attorney fees. Notably, the bill removes the previous restriction that limited attorney fees to $75 per hour unless a special justification was provided, which gives more flexibility in determining appropriate compensation for legal services in agency proceedings.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=203