Temporary appointment of retired magistrates

(a) The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals is authorized and empowered to create a panel of senior magistrates to consist of, and to utilize the talent and experience of, retired magistrates of this state. (b) Senior magistrates recalled and assigned to service shall receive per diem compensation set by the Supreme Court of Appeals, but not to exceed $200 for each day actually served: Provided, That the combined total of per diem compensation and retirement benefits paid to a senior magistrate during a single calendar year may not exceed the annual salary of a sitting magistrate, except as set forth in subsection (c) of this section. (c) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of this section, for purposes of maintaining magisterial efficacy and continuity of magisterial decision making, a senior magistrate may continue to receive per diem compensation after the combined total of per diem compensation and retirement benefits paid to the senior magistrate during that calendar year exceeds the annual salary of a sitting magistrate if the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Appeals enters an administrative order certifying there are certain extraordinary circumstances involving the necessary absence of a sitting magistrate because of a protracted, but temporary, illness or medical condition or a lengthy suspension which necessitate the extended assignment of the senior magistrate. Immediately upon entering such an order, the chief justice shall submit copies of the order to the State Auditor and the State Treasurer. (d) In addition to the compensation authorized by this section, senior magistrates recalled to service may be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.