West Virginia § 6-5-1 - 6-5-1. When terms of office to begin.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 6-5-1 — 6-5-1. When terms of office to begin., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6-5-1. 6-5-1. When terms of office to begin.
The terms of officers, except when elected or appointed to fill vacancies, shall begin respectively as follows: That of Governor, Secretary of State, State Superintendent of Free Schools, Treasurer, Auditor, Attorney General and Commissioner of Agriculture, on the first Monday after the second Wednesday of January next after their election; that of a member of the Legislature, on December 1, next after his or her election; and that of the justices of the Supreme Court of Appeals, the judges of the Intermediate Court of Appeals, the judges of the several circuit courts, the judges of the family and other inferior courts, the county commissioners, prosecuting attorneys, surveyors of land, assessors, sheriffs, clerks of the circuit, or other inferior courts, clerks of the county commissions, magistrates, on January 1, next after their election.
Whenever a person is elected or appointed to fill a vacancy, his or her term shall be as prescribed by chapter three of this code.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 6-5-1
What does West Virginia Code § 6-5-1 cover?
Section 6-5-1 ("6-5-1. When terms of office to begin.") 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 § 6-5-1?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 6-5-1" (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 § 6-5-1 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.