HB 4998
Provide for a raise for private investigators hired by public defender offices or court appointed panel attorneys
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill seeks to increase the hourly rate paid to private investigators employed by West Virginia’s Public Defender Services and court-appointed panel attorneys. Specifically, it raises the investigator rate from $30 to $45 per hour. The bill also outlines procedures for submitting and processing invoices, including timelines for responses and court review, and addresses compensation for attorneys involved in cases, particularly those involving felonies or expungements.
Key provisions
- Increases the hourly rate for private investigators working for Public Defender Services from $30 to $45.
- Establishes procedures for submitting and processing invoices by panel attorneys, including timelines for responses and court review.
- Outlines compensation rates for attorneys based on the type of legal work performed (out-of-court vs. in-court).
- Sets maximum compensation amounts for specific types of cases, such as felonies and expungements.
- Specifies reimbursement limits for expenses incurred, including travel, transcripts, and investigative services.
- Details requirements for voucher submissions, including itemized time records and documentation.
- Addresses expedited payment for certain cases, such as child abuse and neglect.
- Provides for court review and potential appeal of compensation decisions.
Who is affected
- Public Defender Services
- Court-appointed panel attorneys
- Private investigators employed by Public Defender Services
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours