Most states have laws against aiding a suicide or assisted suicide. These laws are usually found in the state’s statutes, and sometimes in the state’s court opinions or case law (common law). The severity level of these crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies.
In West Virginia, aiding or assisting in a suicide is considered a criminal offense. The state's laws prohibit any person from providing the physical means by which another person can commit suicide or participating in an act that assists in the suicide. These laws are codified in the West Virginia Code, specifically under the state's criminal statutes. The act of aiding or assisting in a suicide is typically treated as a felony, which is a more serious crime than a misdemeanor. The exact penalties for assisting in a suicide can vary, but they generally include significant fines and imprisonment. It is important for individuals in West Virginia to understand that any involvement in aiding a suicide is against the law and carries severe legal consequences.