CHARLESTON, W.Va. (Legal Newsline) - The West Virginia Supreme Court is seeking public comment on proposed rules for a Business Court in the state.

The Court on Feb. 9 considered draft rules presented by the Business Court Study Committee, led by Wayne Circuit Judge Darrell Pratt. The Supreme Court created the study committee in June 2010 in response to House Bill 4352, which the Legislature passed in March 2010.

Upon initial consideration of the Committee's proposal, the Court has decided a period of public comment would greatly assist it in its further consideration of the Committee's submission.

House of Delegates Speaker Rick Thompson said Wednesday he is pleased to see that the Supreme Court is seeking this public comment.

"These rules would provide a foundation for a Commercial Litigation Court to facilitate 'the just and efficient litigation between commercial entities,'" Thompson, D-Wayne, said. "I first proposed the Business Court concept because I strongly believe that a court system within our circuit courts to handle the sometimes complex issues unique to the business community would make our courts more efficient, the results more predictable and timely, and send the message to companies considering doing business in our state that this is a welcoming environment.

"I am encouraged by this step forward.

"I greatly appreciate the hard work by the Study Committee and look forward to reviewing the proposed rules and the public comments."

The proposal would amend the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, creating Rule 29, Commercial Litigation.

A link to the proposal is available on the Supreme Court website.

Comments should be filed in writing to the Clerk of the Court on or before May 11.