Bill > HB4604

This bill aims to improve the compensation and support for legal professionals involved in child abuse and neglect cases in West Virginia. It increases the hourly rates for panel attorneys, who represent eligible clients, and establishes a minimum hourly rate for paralegal services. The bill also introduces a new position, the "assistant guardian ad litem," who will assist a guardian ad litem (an attorney appointed to represent a child's best interests) in juvenile abuse and neglect proceedings by conducting visits, meeting with the child, and reporting to the guardian ad litem. Furthermore, the bill mandates specific language to be included in court orders for juvenile abuse and neglect cases, ensuring clarity regarding required actions and findings. Finally, it requires Public Defender Services to annually publish attorney compensation rates and mandates reporting on the services provided by guardians ad litem in child abuse and neglect cases to relevant legislative and oversight bodies.

Budget and Finance, Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4604&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill