Warrant records in Pendleton County, West Virginia are classified as public records pursuant to the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act (W. Va. Code § 29B-1-1 et seq.). This legislation establishes the public's right to access governmental records, including those pertaining to judicial proceedings and law enforcement activities. The statute specifically designates warrant information as accessible to members of the public, with certain limitations regarding active investigations or sealed court orders.
The Pendleton County Circuit Clerk's Office maintains these records in accordance with West Virginia Code § 51-4-3, which mandates the preservation of all court documents. Public access to warrant information serves the dual purpose of maintaining transparency in judicial proceedings and ensuring accountability within the criminal justice system. Citizens may inspect these records during regular business hours at the Pendleton County Courthouse.
Certain warrant information may be exempt from disclosure under W. Va. Code § 29B-1-4, particularly in cases involving juvenile offenders, ongoing investigations, or matters where public disclosure could compromise public safety. In such instances, access may be restricted by court order or statutory provision.
Warrant records maintained by Pendleton County authorities contain specific information as prescribed by West Virginia Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rule 4. Standard warrant documentation includes:
The level of detail contained within warrant records may vary according to the nature of the offense and the requirements specified by the issuing court. All warrant information is maintained in compliance with the West Virginia Court Records Management and Preservation Act (W. Va. Code § 51-4-8).
Members of the public seeking to verify warrant status in Pendleton County may utilize several no-cost resources established under West Virginia's public records statutes. The following methods are available:
In-person requests may be submitted at the Pendleton County Circuit Clerk's Office located at:
Pendleton County Circuit Clerk
100 South Main Street
Franklin, WV 26807
(304) 358-2238
West Virginia Judiciary
Individuals may also contact the Pendleton County Magistrate Court directly for information regarding outstanding warrants. The court maintains public access terminals for self-service record searches during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding legal holidays.
The Pendleton County Sheriff's Office provides limited warrant information by telephone, though in-person verification is recommended for complete and accurate results. Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-3, agencies may require proper identification before releasing certain records.
The Pendleton County Sheriff's Office executes various types of warrants as authorized under West Virginia Code § 62-1A-1 et seq. These legal instruments include:
Arrest warrants, which authorize the apprehension of individuals charged with criminal offenses. These documents are issued upon probable cause determination by a magistrate or circuit judge.
Bench warrants, which are court orders directing law enforcement to take custody of individuals who have failed to appear for scheduled court proceedings or have violated court-imposed conditions.
Search warrants, which permit the examination and seizure of property upon showing of probable cause that evidence of criminal activity may be present at a specified location.
The Sheriff's Office maintains a database of active warrants in accordance with W. Va. Code § 62-1C-14. This information is updated regularly to reflect current enforcement priorities. Warrant service is conducted by sworn deputies who have completed training requirements established by the West Virginia Division of Justice and Community Services.
Pendleton County Sheriff's Office
100 South Main Street
Franklin, WV 26807
(304) 358-2214
Individuals seeking to determine warrant status in Pendleton County in 2025 may utilize several verification methods established under West Virginia law. The West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation maintains a centralized database that includes warrant information from participating counties, including Pendleton County.
Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 62-1C-17, the following procedures are available:
Individuals should be prepared to provide full legal name, date of birth, and other identifying information when making inquiries. Remote access options may include telephone verification during designated hours, though complete information may require in-person visits to the appropriate county offices.
The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals has established guidelines for public access to court records that balance transparency with privacy concerns. These protocols are subject to periodic review and may be modified in accordance with legislative or judicial directives.
Verification of outstanding warrants in Pendleton County follows procedures established under West Virginia Code § 62-1A-4. Members of the public may utilize the following resources:
The West Virginia warrant search system provides a centralized database for preliminary verification. This resource includes records from participating counties, though confirmation through official channels is recommended.
The Pendleton County Circuit Clerk maintains the official record of all warrants issued by circuit judges pursuant to W. Va. Code § 51-4-3. These records are available for public inspection during regular business hours.
The Pendleton County Magistrate Court processes and maintains records of warrants issued at the magistrate level. This office can verify active warrants upon proper request.
Pendleton County Magistrate Court
100 South Main Street
Franklin, WV 26807
(304) 358-2351
Individuals with legal representation may request that their attorney conduct a warrant search through official channels. Attorney inquiries often receive expedited processing due to established court relationships.