GA HB1546

Local authorities (counties, municipalities, and other local governmental entities) must obtain written approval from the Attorney General before contingent fee contracts with private attorneys become effective and enforceable.

Governing bodies must make written determinations that contingent fee litigation is in the local authority's best interest, considering factors such as substantial need, available resources, case complexity, and whether hourly or flat fee arrangements are feasible.

Local authorities must request proposals for outside counsel unless written findings show circumstances prevent this, and must approve contracts in open public meetings after evaluating attorney qualifications and potential relationships.

The Attorney General has 45 days to approve or decline contracts, with authority to reject contracts involving legal matters the state is already pursuing or that fall within state enforcement scope; failure to respond within 45 days constitutes automatic approval.

Exemptions apply to legal services involving debt collection, property sales, bond services, insurance recoupment, and matters with amounts in controversy under $100,000.