West Virginia § 48-8-101 - 48-8-101. General provisions regarding spousal support.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-8-101 — 48-8-101. General provisions regarding spousal support., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-8-101. 48-8-101. General provisions regarding spousal support.
(a) An obligation that compels a person to pay spousal support may arise from the terms of a court order, an antenuptial agreement or a separation agreement. In an order or agreement, a provision that has the support of a spouse or former spouse as its sole purpose is to be regarded as an allowance for spousal support whether expressly designated as such or not, unless the provisions of this chapter specifically require the particular type of allowance to be treated as child support or a division of marital property. Spousal support may be paid as a lump sum or as periodic installments without affecting its character as spousal support.
(b) Spousal support is divided into four classes which are: (1) Permanent spousal support; (2) temporary spousal support, otherwise known as spousal support pendente lite; (3) rehabilitative spousal support; and (4) spousal support in gross.
(c) An award of spousal support cannot be ordered unless the parties are actually living separate and apart from each other.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-8-101
What does West Virginia Code § 48-8-101 cover?
Section 48-8-101 ("48-8-101. General provisions regarding spousal 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 § 48-8-101?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-8-101" (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 § 48-8-101 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.