Legal Help for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Legal Help for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you direct, no-fluff steps to get legal help in West Virginia. Every program, office, and form mentioned is linked so you can act right away. You’ll see exact phone numbers, timelines, and plan‑B options if the first door doesn’t open. Keep this page handy or screenshot the checklists.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call Legal Aid of WV intake right now to open a case. Intake line: 1-866-255-4370. Apply online if phones are closed. Use interpreters if needed. See hours and online application at Legal Aid of West Virginia — Apply for Help and statewide info at WV Court Forms — Family & Protective Orders. (legalaidwv.org)
- File for a Domestic Violence Protective Order the same day at any magistrate court if you are unsafe. Use the court’s approved petition and ask for an emergency order. Start with WV Judiciary — Domestic Violence Rules and find your court at WV Magistrate Courts by County. (courtswv.gov)
- Stop a utility shutoff today by calling your utility’s credit department, then immediately call the Public Service Commission consumer line at 1-800-642-8544 if disconnection is still scheduled. Review the 10‑day notice and personal-contact rules and ask about a medical certification hold. Start with PSC — Complaint & Consumer Assistance and the official shutoff rules at WV Code of State Rules 150‑4‑4. (psc.state.wv.us)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Legal Aid Intake: 1-866-255-4370; online application and hours at Legal Aid WV — Apply; self‑help forms at WV Judiciary — Court Forms. (legalaidwv.org)
- Child Support (BCSE): 1-800-249-3778; services and office finder at WV Bureau for Child Support Enforcement and local offices at Find Your BCSE Office. (bcse.wv.gov)
- Utility Shutoffs/Complaints: 1-800-642-8544; instructions and timelines at PSC Consumer Assistance and formal complaint details at PSC Complaint Procedures. (psc.state.wv.us)
- Domestic and Sexual Violence: 1-800-799-7233 (24/7); WV program locator via WV Coalition Against Domestic Violence — Find Help and statewide rape crisis info via WV FRIS — Crisis Centers. (wvcadv.org)
- Fair Hearings for SNAP/WV WORKS/Medicaid: 1-304-352-0905 (Board of Review); appeal info at WV OIG — Board of Review and DoHS programs at WV Department of Human Services. (oig.wv.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in West Virginia Today
When a shutoff notice hits, you have rights and a narrow timeline. Act the same day.
- Call your utility’s credit department and request a payment plan you can keep. Document names, dates, and amounts. Next, call the Public Service Commission’s Consumer Affairs staff at 1-800-642-8544 and open an informal complaint if disconnection still proceeds. See procedures at PSC Consumer Assistance and formal complaint timelines at PSC Complaint Procedures. Formal cases average about five months, so push for an informal resolution fast. (psc.state.wv.us)
- Use the medical certification option if someone in your home has a serious health condition. A provider can certify that shutting off power would be dangerous. Utilities must follow the 10‑day written notice and two attempts at personal contact rules. Read the exact rule language at WV CSR 150‑4‑4 — Customer Relations and check your utility’s medical certification process (example program page for AEP at Appalachian Power — Payment Assistance). (law.cornell.edu)
- Apply for emergency energy help during official windows. For summer 2025, West Virginia accepted Emergency LIHEAP (E‑LIEAP) applications July 28–August 8 (or until funds ran out). Requirements included a shutoff notice for electric/gas or proof of low deliverable fuel. Confirm current dates the minute funds open. See the announcement at DoHS — Emergency LIEAP 7/21/2025 and program overview at LIHEAP Clearinghouse — WV Profile. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Tap Dollar Energy Fund if eligible. West Virginia American Water’s H2O program grants up to 350everysixmonths(max350 every six months (max 700/year). Find application rules at WV American Water — H2O Help to Others and statewide rules/timeframes at Dollar Energy — WV Utility Assistance. (amwater.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Legal Aid of WV for utility advocacy and to review PSC options at Legal Aid WV — Apply, and keep the PSC complaint open until resolved via PSC Consumer Assistance. If water is at risk, contact WV American Water — Customer Assistance and your local crisis agency via WV 211.
Child Support: Establish, Enforce, and Modify
Start with the state program; it’s designed to serve custodial parents and non‑custodial parents alike. There’s no income test to open a case.
- Open a case and get an order through the West Virginia Bureau for Child Support Enforcement (BCSE). Call 1-800-249-3778, or use the office finder to locate your county office. Use the official site WV BCSE — Start & Services and Find Local Office for contact info and forms. Expect BCSE to gather income data and apply the state’s Income Shares guidelines. (bcse.wv.gov)
- Know the math: West Virginia uses the Income Shares formula and standard worksheets (basic shared vs. extended shared parenting). Review the law and worksheets at BCSE — Income Shares Support Formula and the statute reference at WV Code §48‑13‑204. You can explore an unofficial calculator at WV Support Calc Project to get a rough estimate before your case. (bcse.wv.gov)
- Get and track payments through the state’s SMART payment center. Pay or check disbursements at BCSE — Make a Payment and sign up for alerts. If the other parent isn’t paying, ask for enforcement (wage withholding, intercepts, license actions). (bcse.wv.gov)
- Modify when things change. If income, health costs, or parenting time shifts, request a review. Use the same BCSE contact. Keep records ready (pay stubs, medical bills). (bcse.wv.gov)
Timeline and tips: Initial intake to conference can take several weeks depending on workload. Return all financial forms fast to avoid delays. Bring a parenting time calendar and proof of childcare costs to your conference.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid to review your file at Legal Aid of WV, or call the Tuesday Legal Connect hotline (Tuesdays 6–8 pm, 1-800-642-3617) via WV State Bar — Free Hotline. If you need a private lawyer, use WV Lawyer Referral for a $25 first consult cap. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Safety Planning
The fastest legal protection is a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). The petition starts in magistrate court.
- File the petition in magistrate court; the rule says start there, and a final hearing must be set quickly. See filing and service rules at WV Judiciary — Domestic Violence Rules and find your magistrate clerk via Find Court by County. Forms, including modification, are at WV Judiciary — DV Forms. (courtswv.gov)
- Get an advocate through a local program. Use the statewide rape crisis map at WV FRIS — Crisis Centers or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656‑HOPE. Domestic violence services, shelter, and legal advocacy are coordinated through WV Coalition Against Domestic Violence and local programs like AWAY (Southern WV) and YWCA Wheeling — Family Violence Program. (fris.org)
- Victims’ compensation can cover medical bills, counseling, funeral costs, and lost wages if the crime was reported. Maximums are currently 35,000forinjuryand35,000 for injury and 50,000 for death, with funerals up to $10,000. Apply through the WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund or call 1-877-562-6878. Read details and eligibility at WV Legislative Claims Commission — CVCF. (claims.wvlegislature.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a program advocate to attend court with you (find one via WV FRIS centers). If your petition is denied, talk to Legal Aid about an appeal or safety plan through Legal Aid WV.
Family Law: Custody, Parenting Plans, and Divorce
- Use official court packets for divorce or custody. Start with the Petitioners’ Divorce Packet (SCA‑FC‑100/101) and parenting plan worksheet. See forms at WV Judiciary — Divorce Forms and parenting worksheet SCA‑FC‑128 at WV Judiciary — Parenting Plan Worksheet. (courtswv.gov)
- Fee waivers are available if you cannot afford filing fees. Use the Supreme Court’s updated fee waiver forms (effective Jan 1, 2025) at WV Judiciary — Fee Waiver Forms and see the statute at WV Code §59‑2‑1. For federal court fee waivers (not common for family law), see US Courts Fee Waiver Forms. (courtswv.gov)
- Get guided self‑help from Legal Aid’s interactive forms for divorce and custody modifications. Start at Legal Aid WV — Guided Self‑Help and browse family law articles at Legal Aid WV — Legal Information. (legalaidwv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Legal Aid or the State Bar hotline on Tuesday evenings at 1-800-642-3617 via WV State Bar — Free Hotline, or schedule a low‑cost consult through WV Lawyer Referral. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
Housing and Eviction Defense
West Virginia uses a fast “wrongful occupation” process. Hearings must be set 5–10 judicial days after filing, which moves quickly.
- Know the timeline: Landlords can file a verified petition in magistrate or circuit court; the court sets a hearing within 5–10 judicial days; service and written defenses have short windows. Read the statute at WV Code §55‑3A‑1 and follow‑up provisions at WV Code §55‑3A‑3. For manufactured home lots, see WV Code §55‑3B‑4. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- Defend and document: Bring rent receipts, repair photos, proof of conditions, and any habitability complaints you’ve made. Ask for reasonable time to move if you lose. For fair housing discrimination (pregnancy, disability, families with kids), file with the state WV Human Rights Commission and HUD’s FHEO at File a HUD Fair Housing Complaint. (oig.wv.gov)
- Get help fast: Apply to Legal Aid of WV and call the State Bar Tuesday Legal Connect at WV State Bar — Free Hotline for same‑evening advice. For rent or utility arrears, check Dollar Energy — WV. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the magistrate clerk how to appeal; explore settlement time to move; and if you suspect discrimination, file with both WV HRC and HUD FHEO Region III to preserve deadlines. (oig.wv.gov)
Public Benefits and Appeals (SNAP, WV WORKS, Medicaid, LIHEAP)
- Apply and manage online through the state portal. Screen and apply at WV PATH (DoHS) and find county field offices at WV DoHS — Find Field Offices. For SNAP program updates and forms, see BFA — SNAP. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Appeal any denial or cut by requesting a fair hearing with the WV Office of Inspector General Board of Review. Call 1-304-352-0905, email OIGBOR@wv.gov, or follow steps at WV OIG — Board of Review and Hearings & Decisions. You can usually request phone or video hearings. (oig.wv.gov)
- Energy help windows change during the year. Watch DoHS notices and LIHEAP summaries. Summer 2025 E‑LIEAP ran July 28–August 8. Confirm exact dates every cycle at DoHS — E‑LIEAP Notice and LIHEAP Clearinghouse — WV Profile. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Have Legal Aid review your notice and file the hearing request at Legal Aid WV. Keep using WV PATH to upload proofs and check messages.
Wage Theft, Unemployment, and Work Issues
- Wage complaints: For late final paychecks, unpaid hours, or minimum wage claims, file the RFA (Request for Assistance) with the WV Division of Labor — Wage & Hour. Read what the division can investigate and call 304-558-7890 if unsure at Division Authority & Referral Info. For federal claims (overtime/FMLA), call the U.S. DOL at 1‑866‑487‑9243 via U.S. DOL — How to File a Complaint. (labor.wv.gov)
- Unemployment appeals: If your benefits were denied, appeal quickly. The Board of Review address and phone are listed at WorkForce WV — Disqualification & Appeals; call 1‑304‑558‑2636 to check deadlines and where to file. See the appeal steps at WorkForce WV — Appeals. (workforcewv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Legal Aid for appeal prep at Legal Aid WV, and ask the State Bar hotline on Tuesday evenings at WV State Bar — Hotline.
Driver’s License Reinstatement After Court Fines
- Court fine suspensions: If your license was suspended for failure to pay court costs (for certain dates), WV law allows reinstatement after full payment plus a 25reinstatementfee,orapaymentplanwitha25 reinstatement fee, or a payment plan with a 25 administrative fee. Read WV Code §62‑4‑17 and confirm your exact requirements with DMV Reinstatement at 1‑800‑642‑9066 or the online fee portal at WV DMV — Reinstatement Fees. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- Point suspensions: Check the points brochure and reinstatement instructions at WV DMV — Point System, and pay by mail if indicated. If your suspension involved child support or other orders, coordinate with WV BCSE to clear holds. (transportation.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid to review court debt options at Legal Aid WV and request a realistic DMV payment plan through WV DMV — Reinstatement.
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups
- Catholic Charities West Virginia offers low‑cost immigration legal help and statewide assistance. Call 304‑343‑1036 and see services at CCWVa — Refugee & Immigration Services and region contacts at CCWVa — Locations.
- Mountain State Justice takes select consumer, housing, and rights cases for low‑income West Virginians. Call 304‑344‑3144 and read their intake guidance at Mountain State Justice — Get Help and about their impact at Mountain State Justice — Home. (mountainstatejustice.org)
- Regional victim services include AWAY — Southern WV (24/7), YWCA Wheeling — Family Violence, and RDVIC — Mon County. For a statewide map, use WV FRIS — Crisis Centers. (awaywv.org)
- Legal hotlines & referrals: Tuesday Legal Connect (Tuesdays 6–8 pm, 1‑800‑642‑3617) at WV State Bar — Free Hotline and online matching at WV Lawyer Referral with $25 first‑consult caps. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county courthouse self‑help desk for local pro bono days, and check Public Defender Services — Community Resources for civil resources that anyone can use. (pds.wv.gov)
Resources by Region
- Kanawha Valley (Charleston & surroundings): Use Legal Aid WV — Apply for civil issues, contact PSC — Consumer Assistance for utility complaints, and check water grants at WV American Water — H2O. (amwater.com)
- Huntington/Cabell‑Wayne: Combine Legal Aid help at Legal Aid WV with WorkForce WV — Appeals if you lost benefits, and use Dollar Energy — WV during open funding windows. (workforcewv.org)
- North Central (Monongalia, Marion, Preston): Contact RDVIC — 24/7 Hotline for safety planning and WV BCSE — Offices for local child support issues. For court filings, find the magistrate clerk at Mon County Magistrate Court. (fris.org)
- Northern Panhandle (Ohio, Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Wetzel): Call YWCA Wheeling — Family Violence and the Sexual Assault Help Center. For shutoff disputes, use PSC Consumer Assistance. (fris.org)
- Southern Coalfields (Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Summers): Reach AWAY (formerly WRC) — Get Help and check E‑LIEAP dates at DoHS — News. For custody or divorce, use WV Judiciary — Divorce Forms. (dhhr.wv.gov)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Paths to Help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: For civil rights issues at school, work, or government services, use ACLU of West Virginia — Legal Intake and the WV Human Rights Commission to report discrimination in housing, jobs, or public places. To update identity documents, see Vital Registration’s current policy for amending a birth certificate’s sex designation and name at WV Vital Registration — Amend a Certificate and read background at ACLU WV — Gender Marker Guidance. TTY users can reach offices via West Virginia Relay 711. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for ADA accommodations in court (interpreters, assistive tech) through WV Judiciary — Court Forms and appeal program decisions with Board of Review by phone or video. For disability discrimination, contact WV Human Rights Commission and HUD’s FHEO complaint center if housing is involved. (oig.wv.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Call the VA Women Veterans Call Center at 1‑855‑829‑6636 for referrals, VA health enrollment, and MST‑related services, and ask about legal clinics like WVU Law — Veterans Advocacy Clinic. For state claims help, connect with your county VSO through VA’s Women Veterans Health and the WVU clinic line at 304‑293‑7249. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Get low‑fee immigration help from Catholic Charities WV — Immigration Services and check WVU Law — Immigration Clinic for limited services. For VAWA, U‑visa, or SIJ cases, Legal Aid may advise on civil issues while the nonprofit handles immigration filings.
- Tribal citizens and Native families: If CPS is involved, ask immediately whether the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) applies; it changes placement rules and notice requirements. Use BIA — ICWA Guide & Contacts and NARF — ICWA Resource Hub to locate tribal agents and get advocate materials. Share ICWA contact info with your attorney and caseworker the same day. (bia.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for phone/video hearings with Board of Review and magistrate clerks listed via Courts by County. Use WV Relay 711 for TTY or captioning.
- Single fathers: The same family court forms and child support services apply. Use BCSE — Income Shares and WV Judiciary — Divorce/Custody Forms to file or modify.
- Language access: Ask every agency for interpreters and translated notices. Legal Aid provides interpreters for intake at Legal Aid WV — Apply, and telephone access is available via WV Relay 711.
Charleston Water Bill Help
- Who to call first: West Virginia American Water at 1‑800‑685‑8660 and request a payment arrangement. Ask about H2O grants and reduced‑rate programs. Program details are at WV American Water — Assistance Programs and the grant rules are at H2O Help to Others. (amwater.com)
- Plan B: If the grant won’t fully restore service, combine a partial payment with Dollar Energy assistance or a short PSC complaint to hold the shutoff. Start with Dollar Energy — WV and PSC Consumer Assistance. (dollarenergy.org)
How to File or Find Common Court Forms (Quick)
- Family safety and parenting: WV Judiciary — Family Court Forms and Parenting Plan Worksheet. (courtswv.gov)
- Divorce packets: WV Judiciary — Divorce Forms and instructions (SCA‑FC‑100) at Petitioner’s Divorce Instructions. (courtswv.gov)
- Fee waivers: WV Judiciary — Fee Waiver Forms (updated Jan 1, 2025). (courtswv.gov)
Reality Check — Common Delays and Shortages
- Utility help: Grants can run out mid‑season. Keep receipts and submit proof the same day funds open. Watch current program posts at DoHS — News and Dollar Energy — WV.
- Court backlogs: Family courts vary by county. Use official forms and file complete packets to avoid continuances. Court form links are at WV Judiciary — Court Forms and magistrate contacts at Courts by County.
- Legal Aid triage: Intake staff prioritize safety, eviction, benefits cuts, and court deadlines. If declined, try the State Bar hotline at WV State Bar — Free Hotline and consider a $25 consult at Lawyer Referral. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to appeal: Fair hearing deadlines are short; request the hearing right away using Board of Review and upload documents through WV PATH.
- Missing proof: Courts and agencies decide from the record you submit. Use the checklists below and pull official forms from WV Judiciary and agency sites like BCSE.
- Skipping utility rules: Don’t assume the company can shut you off tomorrow. Quote the 10‑day notice and personal‑contact rules from WV CSR 150‑4‑4 and loop in PSC Consumer Assistance if needed. (law.cornell.edu)
Quick Program Snapshot (Table)
| Program | Who Helps | How to Apply | Typical Wait/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Support (BCSE) | Establish, enforce, modify | BCSE — Start and Find Local Office | Intake + data gathering; time varies by case. (bcse.wv.gov) |
| DV Protective Orders | Safety orders, custody relief | DV Rules & Forms and Magistrate by County | Emergency orders often same day; final hearing set quickly. (courtswv.gov) |
| Utility Shutoff | Complaint & holds | PSC Consumer Assistance | Informal complaints are fastest; formal avg ~5 months. (psc.state.wv.us) |
| E‑LIEAP/LIHEAP | Energy emergencies | DoHS — E‑LIEAP Notice | Windows open/close fast; call to confirm. (dhhr.wv.gov) |
| Crime Victims Comp | Medical, counseling, lost wages | WV CVCF — Apply | Decision after investigator review; keep police report. (claims.wvlegislature.gov) |
Legal Topics vs. Where to Get Help (Table)
| Legal Issue | First Call | Forms/Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Custody/Parenting | Legal Aid WV | Parenting Plan Worksheet and Family Court Forms (courtswv.gov) |
| Child Support | BCSE | Income Shares Formula |
| Eviction | Legal Aid WV | WV Code §55‑3A timelines (code.wvlegislature.gov) |
| Benefits Cut (SNAP/WV WORKS) | Board of Review | WV PATH uploads |
| Utility Shutoff | PSC Consumer Assistance | CSR 150‑4‑4 (law.cornell.edu) |
Eviction & Utility Timelines (Table)
| Action | WV Rule/Source | Practical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction hearing set | WV Code §55‑3A‑1 | 5–10 judicial days after filing. (code.wvlegislature.gov) |
| Utility shutoff notice | CSR 150‑4‑4 | 10‑day written notice, plus two personal‑contact attempts. (law.cornell.edu) |
| PSC formal complaint | PSC Complaint Procedures | Averages ~5 months; try informal first. (psc.state.wv.us) |
Court Forms Quick Links (Table)
| Topic | Key Forms |
|---|---|
| Divorce | Divorce Forms (SCA‑FC‑100/101, etc.) |
| Domestic Violence | Family Court Forms (DV section) and DV Modification (FDVPMOD) (courtswv.gov) |
| Fee Waivers | Fee Waiver Forms (Effective 1/1/2025) (courtswv.gov) |
| Expungement (select cases) | Petition for Expungement — Misdemeanors (SCA‑C906) and statute WV Code §61‑11‑26. (courtswv.gov) |
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Table)
| Need | Where to Start | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Legal advice now | Legal Aid WV — Apply | WV State Bar — Free Hotline (Tues evenings) (wvlawyerreferral.org) |
| Child support | BCSE — Open Case | Find Local Office |
| Utility shutoff | PSC Consumer Assistance | CSR 150‑4‑4 (law.cornell.edu) |
| DV help | WV FRIS — Crisis Centers | WVCADV — Find Help (fris.org) |
| Benefits appeal | Board of Review — Request Hearing | WV PATH uploads |
Application Checklist (Printable/Screenshot‑Friendly)
- Photo ID: Driver’s license or other government ID; ask for fee waiver info at WV DMV and court fee waivers at Fee Waiver Forms. (courtswv.gov)
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, benefits letters, or child support statements; BCSE financial forms at BCSE — Income Shares Info.
- Proof of residence: Lease, utility bill, or mail piece; for HUD fair housing complaints use HUD — File a Complaint.
- Court papers: Prior orders, petitions, or notices; download WV Judiciary — Court Forms.
- Evidence: Photos, texts, emails, police reports; for victims’ compensation, see WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund. (claims.wvlegislature.gov)
- Special needs: Request interpreters or ADA accommodations; use WV Relay 711 and note needs on court forms.
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
- Legal Aid denied: Try the State Bar’s Tuesday Legal Connect at WV State Bar — Free Hotline and ask about WV Lawyer Referral for a capped $25 consult. Consider law school clinics like WVU Veterans Advocacy Clinic for veteran‑related issues. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
- Benefits denied: File an appeal right away with Board of Review and upload proofs via WV PATH.
- PSC complaint stalled: Ask a Consumer Affairs Technician for a supervisor callback at PSC Consumer Assistance and consider a formal complaint if needed.
- Unemployment denied: Follow the Board of Review steps at WorkForce WV — Appeals and call the Board at 1‑304‑558‑2636 to confirm deadlines. (workforcewv.org)
FAQs (West Virginia‑Specific)
- How do I get fast legal advice without a case number: Use the Tuesday Legal Connect hotline (Tues 6–8 pm, 1‑800‑642‑3617) at WV State Bar — Free Hotline and open a Legal Aid file at Legal Aid WV — Apply. (wvlawyerreferral.org)
- Can I apply for child support if I don’t get TANF or SNAP: Yes. BCSE services are open regardless of public benefits. Start at BCSE or call 1‑800‑249‑3778. (bfa.wv.gov)
- What if my ex stopped paying support: Ask BCSE for enforcement and keep a log of missed payments. Use BCSE — Payments and sign up for alerts. (bcse.wv.gov)
- How do I stop a power shutoff when my child has medical equipment: Have your provider complete a medical certification and call the utility’s medical desk; then contact PSC Consumer Assistance with the certification info. See the rule details at CSR 150‑4‑4. (law.cornell.edu)
- What’s the deadline to fight a benefit cut: It varies by program, so request a Board of Review hearing immediately and ask the caseworker to note “aid pending” when allowed. Upload proofs in WV PATH.
- Where do I file for a protective order: File in magistrate court; emergency orders can be entered quickly with a final family court hearing set soon. Read the practice rules at DV Court Rules and use local court contacts. (courtswv.gov)
- How do I report housing discrimination: File with the WV Human Rights Commission and with HUD’s Region III FHEO complaint portal. (oig.wv.gov)
- Do I need a lawyer to appeal unemployment: No, but legal help improves results. Review steps at WorkForce WV — Appeals and seek assistance from Legal Aid WV. (workforcewv.org)
- Can victims get help paying medical bills: Yes, through the Crime Victims Compensation Fund (up to 35,000injury;upto35,000 injury; up to 50,000 death). Apply or call 1‑877‑562‑6878. (claims.wvlegislature.gov)
- I need interpreters or large print forms: Ask the clerk and agency for accommodations and use West Virginia Relay 711. Court forms are at WV Judiciary — Forms.
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las oficinas oficiales antes de aplicar.
- Asistencia legal civil gratuita: Llame a Legal Aid of West Virginia al 1‑866‑255‑4370 (intérpretes disponibles). Formas judiciales: Corte de WV — Formularios. (legalaidwv.org)
- Violencia doméstica y agresión sexual: Línea Nacional 1‑800‑799‑7233; busque ayuda local en WVCADV — Programas y centros de crisis en WV FRIS.
- Corte y órdenes de protección: Presente la petición en Tribunal de Magistrados; reglas y formularios en Corte de WV — Violencia Doméstica. (courtswv.gov)
- Apoyo de manutención infantil: Contacte BCSE al 1‑800‑249‑3778; oficinas locales en Oficinas de BCSE. (bcse.wv.gov)
- Cortes de servicios públicos: Llame al 1‑800‑642‑8544 (Comisión de Servicios Públicos) y revise las reglas de aviso en CSR 150‑4‑4. Programas de energía: E‑LIEAP — DoHS. (dhhr.wv.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Legal Aid of West Virginia — Apply for Help and WV Judiciary — Court Forms for statewide civil legal services and forms. (legalaidwv.org)
- WV Bureau for Child Support Enforcement and Income Shares Support Formula for child support services and guidelines. (bcse.wv.gov)
- WV Public Service Commission — Consumer Assistance and CSR 150‑4‑4 for utility shutoff protections and complaint steps. (psc.state.wv.us)
- WV OIG — Board of Review and WV PATH for public benefits appeals and applications. (oig.wv.gov)
- WV Legislative Claims Commission — Crime Victims Compensation for victims’ compensation rules and amounts. (claims.wvlegislature.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is information, not legal advice. Laws, program rules, and funding windows change. Always confirm with the official agency or a licensed attorney before you act. Use the links in each section to reach the current state or federal page, and call to confirm current availability before applying. For emergencies, call 911 or a crisis hotline listed above.
Tables: Regional and Contact Roll‑Up
Below are more at‑a‑glance contacts you can screenshot.
Regional Legal & Safety Contacts (Table)
| Region | Legal Intake | DV/Sexual Assault |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston & Kanawha | Legal Aid WV — Apply | WVCADV — Find Help and WV FRIS — Centers |
| Huntington/Cabell‑Wayne | Legal Aid WV | WVCADV — Programs |
| North Central (Mon/Marion/Preston) | Legal Aid WV | RDVIC — 24/7 Hotline |
| Northern Panhandle | Legal Aid WV | YWCA Wheeling — Family Violence |
Statewide Quick Numbers (Table)
| Topic | Number | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Aid Intake | 1‑866‑255‑4370 | Legal Aid WV — Apply (legalaidwv.org) |
| BCSE (Child Support) | 1‑800‑249‑3778 | BCSE (bcse.wv.gov) |
| PSC Consumer Line | 1‑800‑642‑8544 | PSC Consumer Assistance (psc.state.wv.us) |
| DV Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑7233 | WVCADV — Find Help |
| Board of Review | 1‑304‑352‑0905 | OIG — Board of Review (oig.wv.gov) |
You’ve got direct links, phone numbers, and alternatives for when plans change. Use the bolded action lines to move first, then go deeper with the links in each paragraph. If you hit a wall, try the Plan B listed at the end of each section.
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in West Virginia
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- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
