HB4980

To establish civil liability for judges who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants in the performance of their duties

Introduced·1/29/26
Intr Text

Establishes civil liability for judges in West Virginia who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants.

The Judicial Accountability and Civil Liability Act creates civil liability for judges in West Virginia who knowingly violate the law, conduct unlawful hearings, or abuse litigants. Judges found guilty of such misconduct can face civil actions, including compensatory and punitive damages, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees. Judicial immunity does not apply to willful misconduct. The judicial oversight body must investigate claims of misconduct, publish an annual report, and make all filings public. Civil actions must be commenced within five years of the misconduct.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

See what it does, who it affects, and the critical issues in plain language. Free, 30 seconds.

Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
9
RRRRRRRRR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Jan 29

House

Filed for introduction

Jan 29

House

To Judiciary

Jan 29

House

Introduced in House