Elizabeth “Beth” Gross exemplifies what it means to be More Than a Lawyer through her dedication to public service and impact on West Virginia’s communities. As an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the Northern District of West Virginia, Beth has found her true calling in a role that combines legal expertise with her passion for helping others transform their lives.
Beth’s commitment to drug court work began during her time as a state public defender and has only deepened in her federal role. The deep integration of community resources and the ripple effect of participants’ success throughout the state’s close-knit communities are what make West Virginia’s drug court programs particularly meaningful to Beth. She has witnessed remarkable transformations as participants move from facing lengthy sentences to regaining custody of their children, securing employment, and becoming inspirations for others.
Beth attributes the success of the Drug Court Program for the Northern District of West Virginia to its collaborative approach, bringing together federal probation officers, local law enforcement, peer recovery coaches, and community members. A standout feature is the Program’s partnership with Jobs & Hope, a state initiative that provides comprehensive reintegration support. While she is the only attorney handling the federal Drug Court Program while maintaining the same caseload as other federal public defenders, Beth describes it as “the most treasured part of [her] work.”
Beyond her legal practice, Beth brings the same energy and commitment to her involvement with the West Virginia Botanic Garden. During COVID-19, Beth and her family found solace in the Botanic Garden, making it their “home away from home” in Morgantown. Her appreciation for this space led her to join the Botanic Garden’s Board of Directors, where she helps preserve and develop this community treasure.
The outdoors holds a special place in Beth’s heart. Together with her husband, Dr. Jason Gross, and their two boys, she completed a 52-week hiking challenge. The family now aims to visit every national park before the kids leave home, and frequent West Virginia’s state parks.
Beth’s dedication to mentorship shines through her continued involvement with the WVU College of Law. A former PIA Fellow with the Harrison County Public Defender Office, Beth credits her law school experience for setting her on the path toward public defense work. She regularly speaks to Clinic classes and assists with the Lugar Cup trial competition as both were pivotal in her development as a trial attorney.
“I always tell people I never thought you could talk about crimes and criminal law in the way that I feel about it, but I could never do anything else,” she said. “While there are days that are gut-wrenching, those days are outweighed by the good days.” This sentiment perfectly captures Beth’s approach – finding joy and purpose in helping others, whether they are drug court participants working toward recovery, law students beginning their legal careers, or community members seeking to connect with nature. Beth was nominated by Kaitlyn Samuelson. Thank you, Beth, for being more than a lawyer!
