West Virginia's House Bill 3245 aims to tackle domestic violence head-on by establishing a pilot domestic violence court in Kanawha County. Introduced on March 7, 2025, the bill directs the Supreme Court of Appeals to assign judicial officers specifically for this initiative, which will focus on misdemeanor domestic violence cases involving family or household members.

The bill's key provisions include the establishment of five pilot courts, where designated judges—ranging from circuit judges to magistrates—will preside over various domestic violence offenses. This targeted approach seeks to streamline the judicial process for these sensitive cases, ensuring that they are handled by officers trained in domestic violence issues. Additionally, the Supreme Court is tasked with collecting data to assess the court's effectiveness, with reports due to the legislature in 2026 and 2027.

Supporters of the bill argue that specialized courts can lead to better outcomes for victims and more effective justice, while critics express concerns about the potential for resource allocation issues and the adequacy of training for judges. The bill has sparked discussions about the broader implications of domestic violence in West Virginia, where rates have been a growing concern.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its success could set a precedent for similar initiatives across the state, potentially reshaping how domestic violence cases are addressed in West Virginia. The outcome of this pilot program could have lasting effects on both the judicial system and the lives of those affected by domestic violence.