West Virginia § 48-20-203 - 48-20-203. Jurisdiction to modify determination.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-20-203 — 48-20-203. Jurisdiction to modify determination., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-20-203. 48-20-203. Jurisdiction to modify determination.
Except as otherwise provided in section 20-204, a court of this state may not modify a child custody determination made by a court of another state unless a court of this state has jurisdiction to make an initial determination under subdivision (1) or (2), subsection (a), section 20-201 and:
(1) The court of the other state determines it no longer has exclusive, continuing jurisdiction under section 20-202 or that a court of this state would be a more convenient forum under section 20-207; or
(2) A court of this state or a court of the other state determines that the child, the child's parents and any person acting as a parent do not presently reside in the other state.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-20-203
What does West Virginia Code § 48-20-203 cover?
Section 48-20-203 ("48-20-203. Jurisdiction to modify determination.") 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 § 48-20-203?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-20-203" (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 § 48-20-203 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.