HB 4893
Increase the penalties for contempt of court in a magistrate court
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill increases the penalties for being found in contempt of court in West Virginia magistrate courts. Currently, fines and community service are the primary punishments for contempt. This legislation raises the maximum fine for each offense, increasing it to $500 for a third or subsequent offense related to the same matter. The bill also allows for potential imprisonment in a county jail for contempt convictions.
Key provisions
- Increases the maximum fine for contempt of court in magistrate court to $500.
- Allows for imprisonment in a county jail for contempt convictions (up to 20 days).
- Increases fines for subsequent offenses related to the same contempt case.
- Maintains the opportunity for a person to be heard before a contempt conviction.
- Provides for an appeal to the circuit court.
- Applies to violations of behavior, disturbance, violence, or resistance within magistrate court proceedings.
Who is affected
- Individuals accused of contempt of court
- Magistrate court judges
- County jail administrators
- Legal professionals
- Members of the public appearing in magistrate court
Notable changes
- Increases fines and potential jail time for contempt of court convictions in magistrate courts.
- Establishes a tiered penalty system based on the number of prior offenses related to the same matter.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsor
Flanigan
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