Source: http://courtswv.gov/legal-community/recent-rules-orders.html
Timestamp: 2017-05-24 17:33:57
Document Index: 422397906

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 17', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 62', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 49', '§ 48', '§ 51']

Recent Rules Orders - West Virginia Judiciary
Pursuant to Article VIII Section 3 of the West Virginia Constitution, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia "shall have power to promulgate rules for all cases and proceedings, civil and criminal, for all the courts of the State relating to writs, warrants, process, practice and procedure, which shall have the force and effect of law." See also W. Va. Code 51-1-4. The Court exercises this authority by issuing rules orders at various times throughout the year. Listed below, in reverse chronological order, are links to recent rules orders issued by the Court, along with a brief explanation of each. For more information about the amendment and promulgation of court rules, please contact the Clerk's Office.
Click on the year to view all of the orders from that year. The current year will always be open.
2017 Rules Orders
Approval and Adoption of Amendments to certain Guardian Ad Litem Rules for Family Court: By order entered April 25, 2017, the Court approved amendments to Rules 21.04 and 21.05 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules and Rule 47 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Family Courts, as well as amendments to Appendix B Guidelines for Guardians Ad Litem in Family Court. RE: Request for Public Comment on Proposed Revision to Rule 7 of the Administrative Rules for Magistrate Court: By order entered April 10, 2017, the Court is considering amendments to Rule of the Administrative Rules for Magistrate Courts, in light of West Virginia Code § 17B-7-1 et seq. Comments must be filed on or before May 11, 2017.
RE: Request for Public Comment on Proposed Revisions to Rule 8.3 of the Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 6 of the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure, and the Rules of the Lawyer and Judicial Assistance Program: By order entered April 10, 2017, the Court is considering amendments to various rules in order to combine the functions of the Judicial Committee and Assistance and Intervention with Lawyer Assistance Program, and will accept public comment on the amendments through May 11, 2017. IN RE: ADOPTION OF AMENDMENT TO RULE 23, CLASS ACTIONS, OF THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE: By order entered March 8, 2017, an amendment to Rule 23 of the West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure was approved and adopted, effective immediately, providing for disbursement of residual funds.
RE: Request for Public Comment and Provisional Approval of Proposed Amendments to certain Guardian Ad Litem Rules for Family Court: By order entered March 8, 2017, the Court has provisionally approved proposed amendments to the rules governing guardians ad litem in family court, and will accept public comment on the amendments through April 10, 2017. The amendments are necessary because guardians ad litem should not routinely be appointed in family court cases. 2016 Rules Orders
IN RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO RULE 23, CLASS ACTIONS, OF THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE: by order entered October 25, 2016, a proposed amendment to The West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure is being published for comment. The proposed amendment to Rule 23, Class Actions, Rules of Civil Procedure provides for disbursement of residual funds. Comments must be filed in writing on or before January 31, 2017.
IN RE: RULE 33 OF THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE: By order entered November 4, 2016, the Court approves amendments to Rule 33 of the West Virginia Rules of Appellate Procedure. The amendments are necessary to properly cite to Canon 2, Rule 2.11 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, as amended by order entered November 12, 2015, effective December 1, 2015.
RE: ADOPTION OF AMENDMENT TO THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW: By order entered October 25, 2016, an amendment to The Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law was approved and adopted to permit the temporary practice of law in West Virginia by the attorney spouses of active service members assigned to a permanent duty station in West Virginia, commonly referred to as "Military Spouse Rule". The proposed amendment was published for comment period closed on December 15, 2015. Comments were received by Robert F. Bible, Lewis G. Brewer and Josie Beets.
RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW: By order entered October 5, 2016, amendments to The Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law were approved and adopted to implement the Uniform Bar Examination and other changes. The proposed amendments were published for comment and the comment period closed August 8, 2016. No comments were received.
RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULE 6 OF THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CIVIL PROCEEDINGS: By order entered October 5, 2016, amendments to Rule 6 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Domestic Violence Civil Proceedings were approved and adopted to address confidentiality of records involving minors. The proposed amendments were published for comment and the comment period closed on July 5, 2016. No comments were received.
RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULES 17(a) AND 32(a) OF THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By order entered September 14, 2106, amendments to Rule 17(a) and 32(a) of the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings were approved and adopted. Rule 17(a) was amended to encourage the use of co-petitions and Rule 32(a) was amended to be consistent with the time period in W.Va. Code § 49-4-610(8)(B). The proposed amendments were published for comment and the comment period closed August 15, 2016. No comments were received.
RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO RULE 39(c) OF THE RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE: By order entered September 14, 2016, an amendment to Rule 39(c) of the Rules of Juvenile Procedure was approved and adopted to be consistent with W.Va. Code § 49-4-714(b)(5)(C). The proposed amendment was published for comment and the comment period closed on August 15, 2016. No comments were received.
RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON ADDITION TO THE WEST VIRGINIA TRIAL COURT RULES: By order entered on September 14, 2016, a proposed amendment to the Trial Court Rules is being published for comment. The proposal adds Rule 18, in response to recently enacted W.Va. Code § 62-6B-6(c) to provide greater confidentiality of recorded interviews of children in certain circumstances.
IN RE: WEST VIRGINIA TRIAL COURT RULES: By order entered on September 13, 2016, the Court approves amendments to Rule 17 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules. The amendments are necessary to properly cite to Canon 2, Rule 2.11 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, as amended by order November 12, 2015, effective December 1, 2015.
RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON AMENDMENT TO RULE 39(c) OF THE RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE: By order entered on June 14, 2016, the court has approved, subject to sixty day comment period, a change in the last sentence of Rule 39(c) of the Rules of Juvenile Procedure in order to make the rule consistent with W.Va. Code § 49-4-714(b)(5)(C). W.Va. code § 49-4-714(b)(5)(C) provides: "Commitments may not exceed the maximum term for which an adult could have been sentenced for the same offense and any such maximum allowable term of confinement to be served in a juvenile correctional facility shall take into account any time served by the juvenile in a detention center pending adjudication, disposition, or transfer."
RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON AMENDMENTS TO RULES 17(a) AND 32(a) OF THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By order entered June 14, 2016, The Court has approved, subject to a sixty day comment period, changes to Rules 17(a) and 32(a) of the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings. The Court Improvement Program requests that the word "mutual" be removed from the second sentence of Rule 17(a) to encourage the use of co-petitions. The Court Improvement Program also requests that the Court consider a proposed amendment to Rule 32(a) of the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings to make the rule consistent with the time period set forth in W.Va. Code § 49-4-610(8)(B). W.Va. Code § 49-4-610(8)(B) states: "Any hearing to be held at the end of an improvement period shall be held as nearly as practicable on successive days and shall be held as close in time as possible after the end of the improvement period and shall be held no later than thirty days of the termination of the improvement period."
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT - RE: Amendments to The Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law: By order entered on June 7, 2016, The Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has adopted the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) with an effective date in July 2017. Subject to the attached amendments to the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law, which are released for public comment, the Supreme Court adopted the recommendation of the West Virginia Board of Law Examiners that West Virginia adopt the uniform exam.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT - RE: Amendments to Rule 6 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Domestic Violence Civil Proceedings: By order entered on June 2, 2016, the Court requested public comment on proposed revisions to Rule 6. Confidentiality of court records, of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Domestic Violence Civil Proceedings. Comments must be filed in writing on or before Tuesday, July 5, 2016 with the Clerk of this Court.
ORDER OF CORRECTION - RE: Approval of Amendment to Rule 2(h) of the Rules of Procedure for Administrative Appeals: By order entered on March 3, 2016, the Court issued an Order of Correction of the Order of Approval of Amendment to Rule 2(h) of the Rules of Procedure for Administrative Appeals. Rule 2(h) was amended in light of the Court's decision in RMLL Enterprises, Inc. v. Matcovich, State Tax Comm'r, No. 13-1275 (W.Va. Supreme Court, October 17, 2014)(memorandum decision) in order to clarify Rule 2.
2015 Rules Orders
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE: By order entered November 25, 2015, the Court approved amendments to the West Virginia Rules of Juvenile Procedure. The amendments are effective January 1, 2016. Notice of Correction to Rule 21 of the West Virginia Rules of Juvenile Procedure.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE: By order entered November 24, 2015, the Court approved amendments to Rules 3(d)(2), 4(b), 10(c)(10)(a) and (b), 10(g), and 11(i), to the West Virginia Rules of Appellate Procedure and approved changes to the certification in Appendix A of the Notice of Appeal. Rule 3(d)(2) and Rule 10(c)(10)(a) and (b) provide guidance to counsel in criminal cases, habeas corpus cases, or abuse and neglect cases, when counsel lacks a good faith belief that an appeal is warranted, and the client insists that an appeal be advanced. Rule 3(d)(2) sets forth that counsel will not be permitted to withdraw solely on the basis that counsel lacks a good faith belief that an appeal is reasonable and warranted under the circumstances. The amendment to Rule 4(b) prohibits pro se filings whenever a party is represented by counsel in an action regardless of whether counsel has made a filing or an appearance before this Court in that action, unless specifically permitted by order. Rule 10(c)(10) sets forth the requirements that must be observed when counsel in a criminal case, habeas corpus case, or abuse and neglect case lacks a good faith belief that an appeal is reasonable and warranted. Rule 10(c)(10)(a) states that counsel must engage in a candid discussion with the client regarding the merits of the appeal. If, after consultation with the client, the client insists on proceeding with the appeal, counsel must file a notice of appeal and perfect the appeal on the petitioner’s behalf. Rule 10(c)(10)(b) provides that in extraordinary circumstances, if counsel is ethically compelled to disassociate from the contentions presented in the brief, counsel must preface the brief with a statement that the brief is filed pursuant to this Rule. If counsel is ethically compelled to disassociate from any assignments of error that the client wishes to raise on appeal, counsel must file a motion requesting leave for the client to file a pro se supplemental brief raising those assignments of error that the client wishes to raise but that counsel does not have a good faith belief are reasonable and warranted. The amendment to Rule 10(g) applies to all cases and states that unless otherwise provided by order, in cases where more than one respondent’s brief is filed, the petitioner is limited to filing only a single reply brief that consolidates the reply to each of the responses. In cases where more than one response brief is filed, the page limitation for the reply brief under Rule 38 is automatically extended to thirty pages, without need for further order. Also, the statement in lieu of transcript requirement for abuse and neglect cases in Rule 11(i) was deleted. The certification required in Appendix A of the Notice of Appeal was updated in light of the changes to Rules 3 and 10 which clarify the application of good faith belief in the merits of the appeal. The amendments are effective January 1, 2016. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA CODE OF JUDICIAL CONDUCT: By order entered November 12, 2015, the Court approved amendments to the West Virginia Code of Judicial Conduct. The amendments are effective December 1, 2015.
In RE: Approval of Amendments to the West Virginia Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings: By order entered November 9, 2015, the Court approved amendments to the West Virginia Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, effective immediately.
In RE: Approval to Rule 3.29 of the Rules of Lawyer Disciplinary Procedure: By order entered October 14, 2015, the Court approved amendments to Rule 3.29 of the West Virginia Rules of Lawyer Disciplinary Procedure with regard to the appointment of trustees.
In RE: Approval of Amendments to Rule 15A.04 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules: By order entered July 27, 2015, the Court approved amendments to Rule 15A.04 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules with regard to participation in the Unified Electronic Filing System Pilot Project.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT on AMENDMENTS to the WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE: By order entered July 22, 2015, the Court approved a sixty-day period for public comment on the proposed amendments to the West Virginia Rules of Juvenile Procedure. The proposed amendments to the Rules reflect the reorganization of Chapter 49 of the Code and incorporate statutory reforms to the juvenile justice system. Comments may be filed, in writing, with the Clerk of the Court on or before September 22, 2015.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT on PROPOSED REVISIONS to the RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE: By order entered July 13th, 2015, the Court requested public comment on proposed revisions to the Rules of Appellate Procedure. The proposed amendments to Rules 3(d)(1) and (2), 5(b), 10(c)(10), and 11(b) provide guidance to counsel in criminal appeals, habeas corpus appeals, or abuse and neglect appeals when counsel lacks a good faith belief that an appeal is warranted, and the client demands than an appeal be advanced. The proposed amendment to Rule 4(b) provides that a party who is represented by counsel may not file pro se documents with the Court or make an oral argument before the Court, unless specifically permitted to do so by order regardless of whether counsel previously has made a filing or an appearance before the Court. The proposed amendment to Rule 10(g) provides that the petitioner is prohibited from filing more than one reply brief unless permitted by order. The proposed amendment to Rule 11(i) provides that the Court will no longer accept a statement in lieu of a transcript in abuse and neglect appeals, because transcripts are essential for the consideration of abuse and neglect appeals. The public comment period concludes on September 11, 2015. All comments must be filed in writing with the Clerk of Court.
IN RE: REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA CODE OF JUDICIAL CONDUCT: By order entered July 6, 2015, the Court requested public comment on proposed revisions to the Code of Judicial Conduct. Since receipt of public comments on a prior draft, the Code has undergone significant revisions, and adopts the structural revisions of the 2007 ABA Model Code. The public comment period concludes on September 8, 2015. All comments must be filed in writing with the Clerk of Court. IN RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULE 12 OF ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR THE MAGISTRATE COURTS OF WEST VIRGINIA By order entered March 11, 2015, the Court approved amendments to Rule 12, Retention of Records that take effect on March 11, 2015.
IN RE: GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN'S GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT CASES By order entered May 18, 2015, the Court approved changes to Appendix A.
IN RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR MINOR GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDINGS By order entered May 19, 2015, the Court approved amendments to rules reflect changes due to 2015 Regular Session of the West Virginia Legislature.
IN RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By order entered May 4, 2015, the Court requests public comment on proposed revisions to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings.
2014 Rules Orders
IMPLEMENTATION OF ANNUAL FEE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LAWYERS ADMITTED PRO HAC VICE UNDER RULE 8 OF THE RULES FOR ADMISSION: By order entered December 12, 2014, the Court approved measures to permit the West Virginia State Bar to assess the new annual fee created by the amendments to Rule 8 that take effect on January 1, 2015.
In Re: Approval of Amendments to Rule 15A.04 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules By order entered November 24, 2014, the Court approved proposed amendments to the West Virginia Trial Court Rules for the establishment of a Unified Electronic Filing System Pilot Program.
In Re: Request for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Rule 15A.04 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules By order entered October 1, 2014, the Court approved revisions to Rule 15A.04, subject to a thirty-day comment period.
APPROVAL OF AMENDED RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT By order of September 29, 2014 (ERRATA), the Court approved comprehensive amendments to the Rules of Professional Conduct. The amendments are effective January 1, 2015.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULE 8 OF THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW By order of September 29, 2014, the Court approved amendments to Rule 8 of the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law, which relates to admission pro hac vice. The amended rule is effective January 1, 2015.
APPROVAL OF STATE BAR ADMINISTRATIVE RULE 10 By order of September 29, 2014, the Court approved a new State Bar Administrative Rule 10, relating to IOLTA and client trust accounts. The new rule is effective immediately.
APPROVAL OF RULE 6.5 OF THE RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT By order of September 12, 2014, the Court approved a new Rule of Professional conduct titled "Nonprofit and Court Annexed Limited Legal Services Programs," based upon the American Bar Association Model Rule. The new rule is effective immediately.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO TRIAL COURT RULE 29 by order entered June 13, 2014. These amendments concern the Business Court Division, and require that all motions and responses are to be filed with the Supreme Court Clerk's Office, in addition to other procedural changes.
APPROVAL OF REVISIONS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF EVIDENCE By order entered June 2, 2014, the Court approved revisions to the West Virginia Rules of Evidence, effective September 2, 2014. Notice of Correction to Rule 608(a) (June 24, 2014). Notice of Correction to Rule 612 (August 28, 2014). (All corrections have been incorporated.)
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS, THE GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN'S GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS, AND THE REQUIRED FORM GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT By order entered April 24, 2014, relating to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, the Guidelines for Guardians Ad Litem in Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, and a required form Guardian Ad Litem Report
ESTABLISHMENT OF UNIFIED ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM - ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA TIRAL COURT RULES, RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE AND RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE by order entered April 23, 2014, relating to the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, Rules of Civil Procedure and Rules of Criminal Procedure.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED REVISIONS TO TRIAL COURT RULE 29, RELATING TO THE BUSINESS COURT DIVISION By order entered April 11, 2014, the Court approved a 30-day period of public comment on proposed revisions to Trial Court Rule 29, governing the Business Court Division. The public comment period closes on Monday, May 12, 2014.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ANCILLARY MATTERS. By order entered April 14, 2014, the Court approved a 60-day period of public comment on major revisions to the Rules of Professional Conduct that are intended to update the rules in conformity with West Virginia law, and are largely patterned after the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct. As a consequence of the proposed revisions to the Rules of Professional Conduct, two additional subject matters are affected: admission of out-of-state lawyers pro hac vice and the administration of client trust accounts, including the Interest on Lawyer’s Trust Accounts (IOLTA) Program. These two subject matters are addressed in Rule 8 of the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law and proposed State Bar Administrative Rule 10, respectively. State Bar Administrative Rule 10 will form a part of a new set of rules that will replace the existing State Bar Rules and Regulations. The new State Bar Administrative Rules are still under development, and the remaining portions will be released for comment later this year. Because State Bar Administrative Rule 10 relates to the subject matter in the proposed amendments to Rule 1.15 of the Rules of Professional Conduct, it is appropriate for consideration as part of this package of rule changes. All practicing lawyers are encouraged to review the revisions carefully and submit comments. The public comment period closes on Friday, June 13, 2014.
2013 Rules Orders
AMENDMENTS TO THE RULESOF LAWYER DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE TO INCREASE MEMBERSHIP OF THE LAWYER DISCIPLINARY BOARD By order entered November 26, 2013, relating to Rule 1.1. Membership and Rule 3.1.Membership.
AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW By order entered November 20, 2013, relating to Rule 1.0. Board of Law Examiners.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA TRIAL COURT RULES, RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE AND RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE By order entered November 7, 2013, the Court approved a period of public comment on proposed amendments to West Virginia Trial Court Rules, Rules of Civil Procedure and Rules of Criminal Procedure. Comments may be filed, in writing, with the Clerk of the Court, on or before December 30, 2013. The proposed changes are attached to the Court's order. REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS, THE GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN'S GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS, AND THE REQUIRED FORM GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT By order entered October 15, 2013, the Court approved a period of public comment on proposed amendments to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, the Guidelines for Guardians Ad Litem in Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, and a required form Guardian Ad Litem Report. Comments may be filed, in writing, with the Clerk of the Court, on or before January 13, 2014. The proposed changes are attached to the Court's order.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE WEST VIRGINIA RULES OF EVIDENCE By order entered September 16, 2013, the Court approved a period of public comment on Proposed Revisions to the West Virginia Rules of Evidence. The proposed revisions are extensive, and the Court urges all interested parties to review the rules carefully and submit comments prior to the deadline of December 16, 2013.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF LAWYER DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE TO INCREASE MEMBERSHIP OF THE LAWYER DISCIPLINARY BOARD By order entered September 6, 2013, the Court requests public comment on proposed amendments to the Rules of Lawyer Disciplinary Procedure. Comments may be filed, in writing, with the Clerk of the Court on or before October 7, 2013.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law TO REQUIRE BOARD MEMBER RESIDENCY By order entered September 6, 2013, the Court requested public comment on proposed amendments to the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law. Comments may be filed, in writing, with the Clerk of the Court on or before October 7, 2013.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE CODE OF JUDICIAL CONDUCT By order entered June 28, 2013, the Court requested public comment on proposed amendments to the Code of Judicial Conduct. The ninety-day comment period ends on September 26, 2013, and all comments must be filed in writing with the Clerk of Court. For the convenience of review, a strikethrough version and an engrossed version are provided.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULE 8 of the WEST VIRGINIA TRIAL COURT RULES By Order entered June 18, 2013, the Court approved amendments to Rule 8 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, governing Cameras, Audio Equipment, and Media in the Courtroom.
AMENDMENTS TO RULES OF THE W. VA. RULES OF THE WEST VIRGINIA LAWYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM By Order entered May 16, 2013, relating to Rule 1(c) Funding and Administration of West Virginia Lawyer Assistance Program.
REQUEST FOR COMMENTS ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO RULE 8 of the WEST VIRGINIA TRIAL COURT RULES By Order entered May 1, 2013, the Court requests public comment on proposed amendments to Rule 8 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, governing Cameras, Audio Equipment, and Media in the Courtroom. The public comment period ends May 31, 2013.
AMENDMENTS TO RULE 4 AND RULE 11, RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CIVIL PROCEEDINGS By Order entered February 21, 2013, relating to service of process of protective orders and relating to payment of the fee authorized by Rule 4 to any law enforcement agency that serves the pleadings or orders.
AMENDMENTS TO RULE 43 OF THE W. VA. RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE AND RULE 56 OF THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR FAMILY COURT by Order entered February 7, 2013, which addresses the payment of compensation to interpreters as provided by law.
2012 Rules Orders
FILINGS THAT DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE by Order entered December 10, 2012, all litigants before this court are hereby provided notice that all filings after January 1, 2013 must carefully comply with the Rules of Appellate Procedure.
ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW By Order entered November 20, 2012, the Court adopted the amendments to the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law effective January 1, 2013.
GUIDELINES FOR KANAWHA COUNTY PILOT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT By Order entered November 20, 2012, the Court approved the proposed guidelines for the Domestic Violence Court Pilot Project in Kanawha County as created by the Legislature at W. Va. Code § 48-37-301 and § 51-2A-2, effective immediately.
DECLINING TO ADOPT PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO WEST VIRGINIA STATE BAR RULES AND REGULATIONS, CHAPTER VII. RULES TO GOVERN MANDATORY CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION. By Order entered September 20, 2012, the Court declined to adopt the proposed amendments.
APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF NEW TRIAL COURT RULE 29, RELATING TO THE BUSINESS COURT DIVISION. By Order entered September 11, 2012, the Court approved Trial Court Rule 29, establishing a Business Court Division within the circuit courts of West Virginia. The new rule becomes effective on October 10, 2012. On the same day, the Chief Justice entered an order making appointments to the Business Court Division and naming a Chair. The changes were announced by Justice Robin Davis. Read more in the Court's press release.
APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF PROPOSED RULE CHANGES TO CREATE A NEW WEST VIRGINIA LAWYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. By Order entered June 19, 2012, the Court approved a three (3) year pilot program by creating the RULES OF THE WEST VIRGINIA LAWYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
APPROVAL OF GUIDELINES FOR GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN FAMILY COURT; AMENDMENTS TO TRIAL COURT RULE 21; AND AMENDMENTS TO RULE 47 OF THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR FAMILY COURT. By Order entered April 20, 2012, the Court approved guidelines related to the appointment of guardians ad litem in family court, along with a proposed amendment to Trial Court Rule 21 related to compensation of guardians and other matters. The rules are generally effective July 1, 2012. Please refer to the Order for additional details regarding the effective date of the new educational requirements and compensation.
CORRECTED ORDER NUNC PRO TUNC OF IN RE: APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS. By Order entered March 27, 2012, the Court issued a corrected order regarding the Approval of Amendments to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings. The rules are effective January 3, 2012.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES FOR ADMISSION TO THE PRACTICE OF LAW. By Order entered March 8, 2012, the Court requested public comment on proposed amendments to the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO CREATE RULE 29. By Order entered February 9, 2012, the Court requested public comment on proposed amendments to create Rule 29, Commercial Litigation, West Virginia Trial Court Rules. The public comment period ends May 11, 2012.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMMENDMENTS TO WEST VIRGINIA STATE BAR RULES AND REGULATIONS. By Order entered January 26, 2012, the Court requested public comment on proposed amendments to Chapter VII of the West Virginia State Bar Rules and Regulations, Rules to Govern Mandatory Continuing Legal Education, Rule 4.4. The public comment period ends February 29, 2012.
2011 Rules Orders
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By Order entered November 22, 2011, the Court approved amendments to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings. The rules are effective January 3, 2012.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED GUIDELINES FOR GUARDIANS AD LITEM IN FAMILY COURT; AMENDMENTS TO TRIAL COURT RULE 21; AND AMENDMENTS TO RULE 47 OF THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR FAMILY COURT. By Order entered October 21, 2011, the Court requested public comment on proposed guidelines related to the appointment of guardians ad litem in family court, along with a proposed amendment to Trial Court Rule 21 related to compensation of guardians and other matters. The public comment period ends December 31, 2011.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE BY-LAWS OF THE WEST VIRGINIA STATE BAR: By Order entered September 13, 2011, the Court approved amendments to the by-laws of the West Virginia State Bar, relating to the Bar's power to hold property and to borrow money. The rules are effective immediately.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE BY-LAWS OF THE WEST VIRGINIA STATE BAR: By Order entered July 13, 2011, the Court approved a period of public comment on proposed amendments to the by-laws of the West Virginia State Bar, relating to the Bar's power to hold property and to borrow money. The public comment period closed on August 26, 2011.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CIVIL PROCEEDINGS: By Order entered June 21, 2011, the Court approved amendments to the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Domestic Violence Civil Proceedings, following an extended period of public comment. The rules are effective July 15, 2011.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By Order entered May 25, 2011, the Court approved a period of public comment on amendments to the rules governing child abuse and neglect proceedings that were proposed by the Court Improvement Committee. The public comment period closed August 26, 2011.
CONTINUATION OF FAMILY COURT APPELLATE PROCEDURES: By Order entered May 12, 2011, the Court directed that the appellate procedures set forth in Rules 26 through 36 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Family Courts, and Rule 13 of the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure shall remain in full force and effect.
TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE: By Order dated February 11, 2011, the Court approved a technical amendment to Rule 37(a), which makes clear that the notice of appeal is filed with the Office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of Appeals.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE FOR MAGISTRATE COURTS: By Order entered February 10, 2011, the Court approved an amendment to the Rules of Criminal Procedure for Magistrate Courts that relates to guilty pleas for certain offenses. 2010 Rules Orders
SECOND REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CIVIL PROCEEDINGS: By Order entered November 23, 2010, the Court approved a second period of public comment on proposed amendments to the Rules of Procedure for Domestic Violence Civil Proceedings. The comment period closed December 15, 2010.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON AN AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE FOR MAGISTRATE COURTS: By Order entered November 22, 2010, the Court requested public comment on an amendment to the Rules of Criminal Procedure for Magistrate Courts that relates to guilty pleas for certain offenses. The public comment period closed January 23, 2011. APPROVAL OF AN ADDITION TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR MAGISTRATE COURTS: By Order entered November 17, 2010, the Court approved an addition to the Administrative Rules for Magistrate Courts. Public comments were received and reviewed by the Court.
APPROVAL OF THE REVISED RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE: By Order entered October 19, 2010 the Court promulgated the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure, which became effective December 1, 2010. The Revised Rules govern all appeals from orders entered on or after December 1, 2010. The following rules were also amended, in light of the revisions to the Rules of Appellate Procedure:
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE: By Order entered October 19, 2010, the Court amended Rules 72 and 73 of the Rules of Civil Procedure in order conform to the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure.
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE: By Order entered October 19, 2010, the Court amended Rule 37 of the Rules of Criminal Procedure in order conform to the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure.
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE FOR FAMILY COURTS: By Order entered October 19, 2010, the Court amended Rule 27 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure for Family Court in order to refer correctly to the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure.
APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PROCEEDINGS: By Order entered October 19, 2010, the Court amended Rule 49 and 50 of the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings in order conform to the Revised Rules of Appellate Procedure.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON AN ADDITION TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR MAGISTRATE COURTS: By Order entered September 22, 2010, the Court approved a period of public comment on a proposed addition to the Administrative Rules for Magistrate Courts. The addition relates to magistrate assistant's hours and duties. The comment period closed October 22, 2010.
APPROVAL OF TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO THE RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE: By Order entered September 9, 2010, the Court approved a technical amendment to Rule 37 of the Rules of Civil Procedure. The amendment corrects a cross-reference in Rule 37(a)(2).
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO RULE 1.15 OF THE RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT: By Order entered June 22, 2010, the Court approved amendments to Rule 1.15 of the Rules of Professional Conduct relating the the administration of IOLTA accounts, after review of the various public comments received.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO RULE 1.15 OF THE RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT: By Order entered May 17, 2010, the Court approved a period of public comment on proposed amendments to Rule 1.15 of the Rules of Professional Conduct relating the the administration of IOLTA accounts.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO TRIAL COURT RULE 26.08: By Order entered April 15, 2010, the Court approved the amendment to Trial Court Rule 26.08. No public comments were filed.
APPROVAL OF THE RULES OF JUVENILE PROCEDURE: By Order entered April 20, 2010, the Court approved a new set of procedural rules for juvenile status and delinquency cases arising under Chapter 49, Article 5 of the West Virginia Code.
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF JUDICIAL DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE: By Order entered April 14, 2010, the Court approved amendment to Rules 1.6 and 1.7 of the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure, relating to the membership of the Judicial Investigation Commission.
PROVISIONAL APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO TRIAL COURT RULE 26.08: By Order entered March 11, 2010, the Court provisionally approved an amendment to Trial Court Rule 26.08, relating to the powers of a presiding judge to control the jury selection process in a case assigned to the Mass Litigation Panel.
DISAPPROVAL OF PROPOSED CHANGE TO THE RULES OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE: By Order entered March 4, 2010, the Court disapproved a proposed amendment to the Rules of Criminal Procedure that would have made the number of peremptory strikes equal and alternating between the State and the defendant.
WITHDRAWAL OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT: By Order entered February 11, 2010, the Court permitted the Office of Disciplinary Counsel to withdraw proposed amendments to the Rules of Professional Conduct, after the amendments had been placed for a period of public comment.
ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS INCREASING THE FEE FOR PRO HAC VICE ADMISSION: By two orders entered February 11, 2010, the Court approved an amendment to the Rules of Admission to the Practice of Law and an amendment to the Trial Court Rules increasing the fee for pro hac vice admissions from $250 to $350.
REQUEST FOR COMMENT AND PROVISIONAL APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES OF JUDICIAL DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE: By Order entered January 28, 2010, the Court approved amendments to the Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure that relate to the membership of the Judicial Investigation Commission. The public comment period closed March 1, 2010.