Allows magistrates to order mental evaluations for defendants charged with specific offenses.

This bill amends the West Virginia Code to allow magistrates to order mental health evaluations for defendants charged with violations of protective orders, personal safety orders, or threats of terroristic acts. The evaluation aims to determine if the defendant needs mental health treatment or counseling as a condition of bond. The evaluation must be completed within 10 days, and the examiner must report findings to the magistrate within 48 hours. A bond hearing must be held within five days of receiving the report.

Allows magistrates to order mental evaluations for defendants charged with specific offenses.

This bill amends the West Virginia Code to allow magistrates to order mental health evaluations for defendants charged with violations of protective orders, personal safety orders, or threats of terroristic acts. The evaluation aims to determine if the defendant needs mental health treatment or counseling as a condition of bond. The evaluation must be completed within 10 days, and the examiner must report findings to the magistrate within 48 hours. A bond hearing must be held within five days of receiving the report.