Upon motion made within twenty days after judgment by any party in a civil action or by the defendant in a criminal action, the magistrate who heard the matter or his successor or designee may, upon good cause shown, set aside judgment and order a new trial. All parties shall be given notice of such motion and an opportunity to be heard.

Terms Used In West Virginia Code 50-5-10

  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Judgment: includes decrees and orders for the payment of money, or the conveyance or delivery of land or personal property, or some interest therein, or any undertaking, bond or recognizance which has the legal effect of a judgment. See West Virginia Code 2-2-10
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.