WomensLaw serves and supports all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.

Legal Information: West Virginia

Know the Laws - By State

Please see below for state-specific laws that might be useful for victims and survivors of domestic violence. This information is written in a Q & A format and is meant to provide you with easy-to-understand information. You can also reach us at our Email Hotline if you have more specific questions.

A brief description of the difference between state laws and federal laws.

Information about permanent and temporary domestic violence protective orders, personal safety orders, financial exploitation protective orders, and moving in and out of West Virginia with a protective order.

General information about custody and links to websites with specific information about custody in West Virginia.

This page addresses some general (not state-specific) laws of one parent taking a child out of the state or country, without the other parent’s consent.

Information about divorce in West Virginia.

Information about crimes the abuser may have committed in West Virginia and victim assistance programs.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, it may be illegal for the abuser to buy or have a gun.

You may have a right to sue the abuser for medical costs, lost wages, and to recover your property.