West Virginia § 8-5-9 - 8-5-9. Terms of office.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 8-5-9 — 8-5-9. Terms of office., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-5-9. 8-5-9. Terms of office.
Except as otherwise provided in the charter of any municipality, the terms of all officers elected after the first election in municipalities holding biennial elections shall commence on July 1, following their election and shall be for two years, and in municipalities holding quadrennial elections the terms of all elected officers shall commence on July 1, following their election and shall be for four years.
All municipal officers, whether elected at the first election of officers or at regular municipal elections, or appointed, shall hold their offices until their successors are elected or appointed and qualified according to law, unless sooner removed from office according to law. Officers in office when this article becomes effective shall hold their offices subject to the provisions of the immediately preceding sentence hereof.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 8-5-9
What does West Virginia Code § 8-5-9 cover?
Section 8-5-9 ("8-5-9. Terms of office.") 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 § 8-5-9?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 8-5-9" (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 § 8-5-9 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.