W. Va. Code § 36-2-7: Evidence.

Evidence may be taken as in other suits in chancery, or the court may hear the evidence in open court. If heard in open court, the court may, and on the motion of any party shall, require the evidence to be taken down in shorthand by a stenographer, and transcribed, and certify such evidence and make the same part of the record in the cause, in the same manner and within the same time as bills of exceptions are now certified and made part of the record: Provided, however, That no exceptions need be taken to any ruling of the court.