How long must an individual live after birth to be treated as living at that time in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, for the purpose of legal considerations such as vital statistics and property rights, an individual must live for a minimum of 120 hours after birth to be considered legally alive at that time. This timeframe establishes a clear boundary for determining whether an infant is recognized as having lived, which can influence a range of legal implications, including inheritance and the registration of births. The 120-hour standard serves to ensure that there is sufficient evidence of life, often supported by established medical criteria. Therefore, it is crucial in various legal contexts when assessing matters of life and death shortly after birth.