West Virginia § 48-22-304 - 48-22-304. Consent or relinquishment by infants.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-22-304 — 48-22-304. Consent or relinquishment by infants., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-22-304. 48-22-304. Consent or relinquishment by infants.
If a person who has executed a consent to or relinquishment for adoption is under eighteen years of age at the time of the filing of the petition, and such infant parent is a resident of the state, the consent or relinquishment shall be specifically reviewed and approved by the court and a guardian ad litem may be appointed to represent the interests of the infant parent. The guardian ad litem shall conduct a discreet inquiry regarding the consent or relinquishment given, and may inquire of any person having knowledge of the consent or relinquishment. If the guardian ad litem finds reasonable cause to believe that the consent or relinquishment was obtained by fraud or duress, the court may request the infant parent to appear before the court or at a deposition, so that inquiry may be made regarding the circumstances surrounding the execution of the consent or relinquishment. The failure of the court to appoint a guardian ad litem is not grounds for setting aside a decree of adoption.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-22-304
What does West Virginia Code § 48-22-304 cover?
Section 48-22-304 ("48-22-304. Consent or relinquishment by infants.") 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 § 48-22-304?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-22-304" (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 § 48-22-304 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.