West Virginia § 56-3-20 - 56-3-20. Further liability for failure to make proper return.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 56-3-20 — 56-3-20. Further liability for failure to make proper return., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56-3-20. 56-3-20. Further liability for failure to make proper return.
A judgment in a prosecution under the preceding section for failure to make proper return of any process or order, or to subscribe the return as aforesaid, shall be no bar to further proceedings if the failure be continued; but there shall be a further forfeiture by the officer, who ought to have made such return, of $20 for every month subsequent to the judgment that the failure shall continue, until it appear that the return cannot be made; or if it be the case of an execution or warrant of distress, until it appear that the amount thereof has been paid to the party entitled. Moreover, the court to which, or to the clerk's office of which, such return ought to be made, may, upon the motion of any party injured, and for his use, fine such officer and his sureties, or any one or more of them, or any deputy in default, a reasonable sum, and from time to time impose on him or them other reasonable fines, not exceeding altogether, in the case of an execution or warrant of distress, the rate of $5 for every $100 therein mentioned for each month that the failure to make such return shall have continued.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 56-3-20
What does West Virginia Code § 56-3-20 cover?
Section 56-3-20 ("56-3-20. Further liability for failure to make proper return.") 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 § 56-3-20?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 56-3-20" (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 § 56-3-20 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.