The bill amends the eviction proceedings under West Virginia law, specifically targeting the process for filing and scheduling hearings related to the wrongful occupation of residential rental properties. It mandates that upon the filing of an eviction petition, the court must schedule a hearing within five to ten judicial days. Additionally, it allows tenants to file and serve a written defense to the eviction petition within five days of receiving notice of the petition.

The new legal language inserted into the law clarifies the timeline for both the scheduling of the hearing and the tenant's opportunity to respond. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication and procedural fairness in eviction cases, ensuring that tenants have a chance to defend themselves against eviction claims promptly.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-3A-1
Engrossed Version: 55-3A-1
Enrolled Version: 55-3A-1