West Virginia § 38-16-504 - 38-16-504. Filing fees.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 38-16-504 — 38-16-504. Filing fees., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-16-504. 38-16-504. Filing fees.
(a) The fee for filing an action under this chapter is $15. The plaintiff must pay the fee to the clerk of the court in which the action is filed. Except as provided by subsection (b), the plaintiff may not be assessed any other fee, cost, charge, or expense by the clerk of the court or other public official in connection with the action.
(b) The fee for service of notice of an action under this section charged to the plaintiff may not exceed:
(1) Twenty dollars if the notice is delivered in person; or
(2) The cost of postage if the service is by registered or certified mail.
(c) A plaintiff who is unable to pay the filing fee and fee for service of notice may file with the court an affidavit of inability to pay.
(d) Since the fee imposed under subsection (a) of this section is less than the filing fee the court imposes for filing other similar actions, if the plaintiff prevails in the action, the court may order a defendant to pay to the court the differences between the fee paid under subsection (a) and the filing fee the court imposes for filing other similar actions.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 38-16-504
What does West Virginia Code § 38-16-504 cover?
Section 38-16-504 ("38-16-504. Filing fees.") 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 § 38-16-504?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 38-16-504" (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 § 38-16-504 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.