SB 539
Relating to abuse and neglect cases
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to clarify and standardize procedures for handling abuse and neglect cases in West Virginia. It focuses on improving the compensation and oversight of panel attorneys who represent children in these cases, ensuring they receive appropriate reimbursement for their time and expenses. The bill also addresses the process for determining temporary custody and outlines specific requirements for court proceedings and documentation related to child abuse and neglect claims.
Key provisions
- Establishes clear guidelines for compensating panel attorneys for their services in abuse and neglect cases, including hourly rates and expense reimbursements.
- Outlines a process for attorneys to challenge voucher rejections by Public Defender Services, requiring notification, record submission, and court review.
- Defines specific circumstances under which a child can be temporarily removed from their home by the Department of Children and Families, emphasizing imminent danger to the child's well-being.
- Requires the Department of Children and Families to make reasonable efforts to preserve families when considering temporary custody.
- Specifies the types of expenses that can be reimbursed to panel attorneys, such as travel, transcripts, and expert witness fees.
- Mandates annual reporting by Public Defender Services to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources regarding legal services provided.
- Addresses compensation for attorneys representing children in expungement proceedings.
- Clarifies the roles and responsibilities of court-appointed special advocates (CASA) in child abuse and neglect cases.
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