West Virginia § 22-18-12 - 22-18-12. Confidential information.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 22-18-12 — 22-18-12. Confidential information., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-18-12. 22-18-12. Confidential information.
Information obtained by any agency under this article shall be available to the public unless the director certifies such information to be confidential. The director may make such certification where any person shows, to the satisfaction of the director, that the information or parts thereof, if made public, would divulge methods, processes or activities entitled to protection as trade secrets. Nothing in this section may be construed as limiting the disclosure of information by the division to any officer, employee or authorized representative of the state or federal government concerned with effecting the purposes of this article.
Any person who knowingly and willfully divulges or discloses any information entitled to protection under this section is guilty of a misdemeanor, and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $5,000, or imprisoned in the county jail for not more than six months, or both fined and imprisoned.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 22-18-12
What does West Virginia Code § 22-18-12 cover?
Section 22-18-12 ("22-18-12. Confidential information.") 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 § 22-18-12?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 22-18-12" (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 § 22-18-12 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.