West Virginia § 16-5-20 - 16-5-20. Delayed registration of death.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 16-5-20 — 16-5-20. Delayed registration of death., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-5-20. 16-5-20. Delayed registration of death.
(a) When a death occurring in this state has not been registered within the time period described by section nineteen of this article, a certificate of death may be filed subject to evidentiary documentation and other requirements as prescribed by legislative rule.
(b) If the required evidentiary documentation is not filed with the application for a delayed registration of death or the state Registrar has cause to question the validity or adequacy of the evidentiary documentation, the state Registrar may not register the delayed certificate of death and shall advise the applicant of his or her right to seek an order from a court of competent jurisdiction.
(c) A certificate of death registered one year or more after the date of death shall be marked "Delayed" and shall show on its face the date of the delayed registration.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 16-5-20
What does West Virginia Code § 16-5-20 cover?
Section 16-5-20 ("16-5-20. Delayed registration of death.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 16-5-20?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 16-5-20" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 16-5-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.