summary
Introduced
02/26/2025
02/26/2025
In Committee
03/05/2025
03/05/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/16/2025
06/16/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An act relating to legal representation contracts; amending s. 16.0155, F.S.; defining the term "contingency fee"; creating s. 16.0156, F.S.; defining terms; prohibiting the Department of Legal Affairs from entering into certain contracts until the Attorney General makes a specified written determination; requiring that the determination include certain findings; requiring the Attorney General to request proposals from private attorneys after making such determination; providing that the written determination does not constitute a final agency action that is subject to review; providing that the request for proposals and the contract award are not subject to challenge under the Administrative Procedure Act; requiring contracted private attorneys to maintain certain records and to provide those records to the department at specified intervals; requiring the department to post and maintain specified information on its website; requiring the Attorney General to submit an annual report to the Legislature by a specified date; specifying requirements for the report; providing an effective date.
AI Summary
This bill establishes new rules for how the Florida Department of Legal Affairs can contract with private attorneys for legal representation. It defines a "contingency fee" as compensation that depends on the successful outcome of a legal action, and creates a detailed framework for legal representation contracts. The bill requires the Attorney General to make a written determination before the department can enter into such a contract, evaluating factors like available internal resources, the complexity of the legal matter, required attorney experience, and geographic considerations. The bill mandates that the department request proposals from private attorneys after this determination and imposes strict transparency requirements, including biweekly time record submissions, monthly website updates of expenses, and posting contract details online within 5 business days. Contracted attorneys must maintain detailed time records in 1/10 hour increments and provide them to the department. Additionally, the Attorney General must submit an annual report to the legislature by February 1st, detailing all legal representation contracts, including specifics like the attorney's name, legal matter status, parties involved, recoveries, and fees paid. The bill aims to increase accountability and transparency in how the Department of Legal Affairs contracts for legal services, with the new provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee (on 06/16/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1179 |
| BillText | https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1179/BillText/Filed/PDF |
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