WV SB974

Requires political subdivisions (local governments) in West Virginia to obtain Attorney General approval before entering into contingency fee contracts with private attorneys to pursue litigation

Mandates public notice and open meeting approval before a political subdivision can hire outside counsel on contingency, including disclosure of reasons for the arrangement, attorney qualifications, and why internal legal resources are insufficient

Gives the Attorney General 90 days to approve or deny contingency fee contracts, with automatic approval if no action is taken by day 91; denial permitted if requirements aren't met, the matter conflicts with state litigation, or wouldn't promote efficient resolution

Requires contracted attorneys to maintain detailed time and expense records subject to inspection by the political subdivision and Attorney General, with final statements being public information

Declares any contingency fee contract entered in violation of these requirements void as against public policy, with no fees payable for work performed under void contracts