West Virginia § 48-14-502 - 48-14-502. Willful failure or refusal to comply with order to pay support.

Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-14-502 — 48-14-502. Willful failure or refusal to comply with order to pay support., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 48-14-502. 48-14-502. Willful failure or refusal to comply with order to pay support.

If the court finds that the obligor willfully failed or refused to comply with an order requiring the payment of support, the court shall find the obligor in contempt and may do one or more of the following:

(1) Require additional terms and conditions consistent with the court's support order.

(2) After notice to both parties and a hearing, if requested by a party, on any proposed modification of the order, modify the order in the same manner and under the same requirements as an order requiring the payment of support may be modified under the provisions of Part 5-701, et seq. A modification sought by an obligor, if otherwise justified, shall not be denied solely because the obligor is found to be in contempt.

(3) Order that all accrued support and interest thereon be paid under such terms and conditions as the court, in its discretion, may deem proper.

(4) Order the contemnor to pay support in accordance with a plan approved by the Bureau for Child Support Enforcement or to participate in such work activities as the court deems appropriate.

(5) If appropriate under the provisions of section 1-304:

(A) Commit the contemnor to the regional jail; or

(B) Commit the contemnor to the regional jail with the privilege of leaving the jail, during such hours as the court determines and under such supervision as the court considers necessary, for the purpose of allowing the contemnor to go to and return from his or her place of employment.

Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-14-502

What does West Virginia Code § 48-14-502 cover?

Section 48-14-502 ("48-14-502. Willful failure or refusal to comply with order to pay support.") 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 § 48-14-502?

A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-14-502" (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 § 48-14-502 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.