Bill > HB4650

This bill modifies the process by which a defendant in municipal court is entitled to a trial by jury, specifically amending section 8-10-2 of the West Virginia Code. The key change is that a defendant is now entitled to a jury trial if they are charged with an offense for which a fine of more than $5,000 may be imposed, in addition to offenses that carry a potential jail sentence. The bill also clarifies that if a jury trial is demanded and granted in a criminal matter, the municipal court will follow the procedures for magistrate courts, with the jury consisting of 12 members, replacing the previous mention of "twelve" members. This provision aims to ensure that individuals facing significant financial penalties have the same right to a jury trial as those facing potential jail time.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4650&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill