West Virginia § 49-12-4 - 49-12-4. Parental rights.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 49-12-4 — 49-12-4. Parental rights., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 49-12-4. 49-12-4. Parental rights.
(a) All parental rights are reserved to the parent of a minor child in this state without obstruction or interference from the state, any of its political subdivisions, any other governmental entity, or any other state institution, including, but not limited to, all of the following rights of a parent of a minor child in this state: (1) The right to direct the education and care of his or her minor child.
(2) The right to direct the upbringing and the moral or religious training of his or her minor child.
(3) The right to apply to enroll his or her minor child in a public school or, as an alternative to public education, a private school, including a religious school, a home education program, or other available options, as authorized by law.
(4) The right to access and review all school records relating to his or her minor child.
(5) The right to make health care decisions for his or her minor child, unless otherwise prohibited by law.
(b) The right to parental rights guaranteed by this article shall not be denied or abridged on account of disability.
(c) A parent may raise this article as a defense before any court or administrative tribunal. In addition, any person aggrieved by the provisions of this article may bring an action for injunctive relief against a person who engages in conduct that constitutes a violation of this article in the circuit court of any county in which any part of the conduct occurs. The circuit court may grant any appropriate injunctive relief to prevent or abate the conduct, including a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, or permanent injunction.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 49-12-4
What does West Virginia Code § 49-12-4 cover?
Section 49-12-4 ("49-12-4. Parental rights.") 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 § 49-12-4?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 49-12-4" (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 § 49-12-4 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.