West Virginia § 56-4-8 - 56-4-8. Return to show defendant's nonresidence; abatement as to nonresident not served.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 56-4-8 — 56-4-8. Return to show defendant's nonresidence; abatement as to nonresident not served., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 56-4-8. 56-4-8. Return to show defendant's nonresidence; abatement as to nonresident not served.
When a summons to a party to answer an action or bill is received by an officer who knows that such party is not a resident of his county, or not a resident of the state, he shall, unless he find him in his county on or before the return day, make a return that he is a nonresident of the county and/or state as the case may be; whereupon, if the court from which such process issued have jurisdiction of the case only on the ground of such defendant's residence in such county, the action or suit shall abate as to him and if he be returned a nonresident of the state, and the court have jurisdiction of the case only on the ground that the cause of action arose in the county, the action of suit shall abate as to him
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 56-4-8
What does West Virginia Code § 56-4-8 cover?
Section 56-4-8 ("56-4-8. Return to show defendant's nonresidence; abatement as to nonresident not served.") 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 § 56-4-8?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 56-4-8" (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 § 56-4-8 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.