West Virginia § 15-16-5 - 15-16-5. Complaint procedure; notice; equitable relief.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 15-16-5 — 15-16-5. Complaint procedure; notice; equitable relief., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-16-5. 15-16-5. Complaint procedure; notice; equitable relief.
(a) Any person, including a federal agency, may file a complaint with the Attorney General alleging that a state entity, local entity, or law enforcement agency has violated or is violating this article. The person shall include with the complaint any evidence the person has in support of the complaint.
(b) A state entity, local entity, or law enforcement agency for which the Attorney General has received a complaint pursuant to this section shall comply with any document requests, including a request for supporting documents, from the Attorney General relating to the complaint.
(c) If the Attorney General determines there is sufficient evidence that a local entity or law enforcement agency has violated or is violating the provisions of this article, the Attorney General may file a petition for declaratory or injunctive relief, mandamus, or other appropriate relief in Circuit Court for Kanawha County, or in the Circuit Court for a county in which the principal office of the entity or agency is located, against the entity or agency suspected of violating this article.
(d) If a court finds a state entity, local entity, or law enforcement agency has violated or is violating this article, the court shall enjoin the violation. The court shall have continuing jurisdiction over the parties and subject matter and may enforce its orders with contempt proceedings as provided by law.
(e) An order approving a consent decree or granting any relief under this section shall include written findings of fact that describe with specificity the existence and nature of the violation.
(f) In an appeal related to a suit brought under this section, the appellate court shall render its final order or judgment with the least possible delay.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 15-16-5
What does West Virginia Code § 15-16-5 cover?
Section 15-16-5 ("15-16-5. Complaint procedure; notice; equitable relief.") 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 § 15-16-5?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 15-16-5" (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 § 15-16-5 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.