West Virginia Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, also known as the appraisal rights statute, is a crucial provision that aims to protect minority shareholders' rights in corporate transactions involving mergers or consolidations. This statute empowers minority shareholders to demand appraisal of their shares in order to determine fair value and receive fair compensation for their investments. Under this provision, minority shareholders who dissent from a merger or consolidation can trigger the appraisal process by delivering a written demand to the corporation prior to a shareholder vote on the transaction. It is essential to understand that Section 262 is specific to the state of West Virginia and may differ in certain aspects in other jurisdictions. The primary objective of Section 262 is to ensure that minority shareholders are not left at a disadvantage when there is a shift in corporate control. By offering appraisal rights, the law aims to provide these shareholders with an alternative to being forced into a transaction that they may not view as beneficial or fair. Through the appraisal process, shareholders are entitled to obtain a judicial determination of the fair value of their shares. This is a crucial safeguard as it allows minority shareholders to challenge the price offered by the corporation and seek a higher valuation that reflects the true worth of their investment. It is important to note that West Virginia Section 262 encompasses various types of mergers or consolidations. These may include, but are not limited to, statutory mergers, short-form mergers, and triangular mergers. Each type involves specific legal and procedural considerations, and shareholders should consult legal experts for guidance based on their unique circumstances. In addition to the appraisal rights provision, there may be other subsections or amendments within West Virginia Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law that further elaborate on shareholder rights and protections, such as disclosure requirements, timelines for exercising appraisal rights, and court procedures. Overall, West Virginia Section 262 of the Delaware General Corporation Law plays a crucial role in safeguarding minority shareholder interests during mergers and consolidations. By granting appraisal rights, it provides an avenue for dissenting shareholders to seek fair compensation and protect their investments when major corporate changes take place.