West Virginia § 61-3-5 - 61-3-5. Burning, or attempting to burn, insured property; penalty.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 61-3-5 — 61-3-5. Burning, or attempting to burn, insured property; penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 61-3-5. 61-3-5. Burning, or attempting to burn, insured property; penalty.
Any person who willfully and with intent to injure or defraud an insurer sets fire to or burns, or attempts so to do, or causes to be burned, or who aids, counsels, procures, persuades, incites, entices or solicits any person to burn, any building, structure or personal property, of any class or character, whether the property of himself or herself or of another, which shall at the time be insured or which is believed by the person committing an act prohibited by this section to be insured by any person against loss or damage by fire, shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, be sentenced to the penitentiary for a definite term of imprisonment which is not less than one nor more than five years or fined not to exceed $10,000, or both. A person imprisoned pursuant to this section is not eligible for parole prior to having served a minimum of one year of his or her sentence or the minimum period required by the provisions of section thirteen, article twelve, chapter sixty-two of this code, whichever is greater.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 61-3-5
What does West Virginia Code § 61-3-5 cover?
Section 61-3-5 ("61-3-5. Burning, or attempting to burn, insured property; penalty.") 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 § 61-3-5?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 61-3-5" (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 § 61-3-5 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.