West Virginia § 3-5-12 - 3-5-12. Official and sample ballots; color.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 3-5-12 — 3-5-12. Official and sample ballots; color., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3-5-12. 3-5-12. Official and sample ballots; color.
There shall be a separate ballot printed on different colored paper for each political party participating in the primary election and the ballot of no two parties may be of the same color or tint. The Secretary of State shall select and determine the color of the paper of the ballot of each of the parties, and shall notify the clerk of the county commission of each county thereof, at the time he or she certifies the names of the candidates of the various parties to the clerk, as herein provided.
A different color of paper shall be selected and designated by the Secretary of State for each party. The sample ballots of each party shall be of a different color than the official ballot and of a different color from one another. There shall be printed across the face of such sample ballot in large letters the words "sample ballot". No sample ballot shall be voted or counted in any election.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 3-5-12
What does West Virginia Code § 3-5-12 cover?
Section 3-5-12 ("3-5-12. Official and sample ballots; color.") 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 § 3-5-12?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 3-5-12" (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 § 3-5-12 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.