Relating to compensation for panel attorneys

SB 145 increases compensation for attorneys representing indigent clients in criminal, juvenile, and abuse/neglect cases, as well as for guardians ad litem appointed by West Virginia courts. It requires Public Defender Services to process payment claims within 45 business days and establishes clear procedures for resolving disputes over rejected or reduced payments, including court review. The bill also mandates an annual report summarizing legal services provided by guardians ad litem. This directly affects panel attorneys, guardians ad litem, and the Public Defender Services agency.