The attorney general is the chief legal officer for West Virginia. The current Attorney General of West Virginia is Republican Patrick Morrisey, elected in 2013. The attorney general serves a four-year term and can be reelected unlimited times.
Constitutional Officers in West Virginia
The attorney general is one of five constitutional officers in West Virginia, which include:
- Governor
- Secretary of State
- Auditor
- Treasurer
- Commissioner of Agriculture
These officers make up the executive branch of the state government. The Secretary of State is Republican Mac Warner, and the auditor is John B. “JB” McCuskey.
Functions of the Attorney General
- Represents the state in all claims against it
- Initiates criminal proceedings
- Supervises state accounting and finances
- Provides legal representation for state agencies, officials, commissions, and boards
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does the Attorney General of WV do?
The attorney general prosecutes cases involving the government, gives advice to the president and executive department heads, enforces federal laws, provides legal counsel in federal cases, interprets laws, heads federal jails and penal institutions, and examines alleged violations of federal laws. -
Who is the Attorney General for WV?
Patrick Morrisey (Republican Party), since 2013.
Additional Information
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National Do Not Call Registry:
Register your phone number online at www.donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222. -
Opioid Crisis:
Tackling the opioid crisis has been a top priority for the Attorney General’s Office since January 2013. -
Seized Bank Accounts:
Contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-368-8808 for assistance with seized bank accounts.
The attorney general is elected on Election Day in November and takes office on the first Monday of the next January.
Current Political Control
West Virginia has a Republican triplex, with the Republican Party controlling the offices of governor, secretary of state, and attorney general.
Upcoming Elections
- Senators Ryan Weld and Mike Stuart are running for AG in 2024, intending to protect citizens and expand the office’s authority to prosecute crimes.
The attorney general is available to protect consumers, legislate laws, and enforce antitrust regulations. You can contact the office at 304-558-2021, located at the state capitol building in Charleston.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office ensures justice in the Southern District by prosecuting federal crimes and serving to enhance the quality of life.