Bill > S0148

This bill establishes new regulations for legal representation contracts at the Florida Department of Legal Affairs. The bill defines a "contingency fee" as compensation that depends on the successful prosecution or settlement of a legal action, and creates a new set of requirements for the Attorney General when entering into legal representation contracts with private attorneys. Before signing such a contract, the Attorney General must make a written determination that the representation is cost-effective and in the public interest, considering factors like available departmental resources, the complexity of the case, geographic area, and the attorney's experience. The bill requires the Attorney General to request proposals from private attorneys after making this determination and mandates detailed record-keeping by contracted attorneys, including maintaining time records in increments of 1/10 of an hour. The Department of Legal Affairs must post and maintain contract details, expenses, and payment information on its website for public transparency. Additionally, the Attorney General must submit an annual report to the Legislature by February 1st, detailing all legal representation contracts, including specifics about the attorneys, legal matters, recoveries, and fees. The legislation aims to increase accountability and oversight in the department's legal contracting process, with the new rules taking effect on July 1, 2025.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/148