Keith Cox exemplifies what it means to be More Than a Lawyer through his unique legal expertise and musical passion. As a Supervising Attorney in Claims Recovery at the West Virginia Division of Highways by day, and as a cover band performer by night, Keith has found the perfect balance between his loves of trial advocacy and connecting with an audience, whether in a courtroom or on a stage.
Keith’s journey to public service began with a baptism by fire. Fresh out of law school and just three months into his career, Keith found himself running a law practice after his mentor departed for health reasons. “He believed in me, so I told him, ‘I’ll do it.’” What followed were months of sleepless nights, a reliance on Black’s Law Dictionary, and appearances in cases that began when he was still in middle school. “It was the scariest time of my life and the greatest blessing,” Keith reflects. “Nothing prepared me better for the unknown, and nothing will make you a better performer than being scared all night.” This ordeal instilled resilience and adaptability in him which continues to serves him well both in court and in his band.
Keith’s current role at the Division of Highways calls for him to appear in circuit court, as well as before the West Virginia Legislative Claims Commission and the West Virginia Public Employees Grievance Board. His office in Charleston overlooks the State Capitol. He is reminded daily of how lucky he is to be enjoying his chosen career in circumstances he considers ideal. “I can’t think of another job I would want more,” Keith says, appreciating particularly that visiting various legal venues affords him the opportunity to travel throughout West Virginia.
Beyond performing regularly on the courtroom stage, Keith performs as a guitarist and lead singer for Analog Boy, a cover band that has been together for five years. It was formed during the pandemic, when everyone needed to do something constructive and find reasons to be optimistic. Because there was no pressure to perform, the group’s members spent months “rocking out in the basement,” knowing their band would be ready “when the world [was] ready.” Keith explains that he enjoys playing covers, because “when you’re not the original artist, you don’t take it that seriously. Just have fun and get the audience to have fun.”
Keith credits his courtroom experience for making him a better performer, noting the anxiety he once felt before court now manifests as healthy excitement before taking the stage. Whether appearing in court or performing at the Blue Parrot, Keith approaches each opportunity with the same preparedness and enthusiasm.
Through his dedication to West Virginia’s legal system and his commitment to entertaining to audiences around the State, Keith Cox embraces every opportunity to serve and connect with his community. Thank you, Keith, for being More Than a Lawyer!
Keith was nominated by Lindsey McIntosh.
