HB 4473
Relating to the West Virginia Supreme Court’s power to promulgate rules allowing for the limited practice of law by nonlawyers
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill would allow the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals to create rules permitting nonlawyers to practice law under a limited license. It establishes a task force to study and recommend specific rules and procedures for this limited practice, including qualifications, examinations, and areas of practice. The task force will also consider how to adapt the existing Rules of Professional Conduct and establish a process for handling complaints against these limited license practitioners.
Key provisions
- The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals can create rules for limited practice of law by nonlawyers.
- A task force will be formed to recommend rules and procedures for this limited practice.
- The task force will include representatives from the State Bar, law schools, Marshall University, and a Circuit Judge.
- The task force will determine certification requirements, including examinations and character/fitness reviews.
- The task force can offer alternative pathways to certification for individuals with relevant education (e.g., Master's degree or paralegal certification).
- Initially, limited practice will be limited to child abuse/neglect and mental hygiene proceedings and limited civil litigation.
- The task force will consider costs associated with establishing certification programs.
- The task force will identify a process for handling complaints against limited license legal practitioners.
Who is affected
- West Virginia State Bar
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