News

On October 1, the WV State Bar received the following message from Alice Mine, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Bar, seeking our help with legal services badly needed by residents affected by the recent devastation from Hurricane Helene. This type of weather event just wasn’t anticipated in the mountains of North Carolina. As […]

What Are Regional Meetings? Each year, beginning in September, the West Virginia State Bar hits the road for a ten location tour of the state offering CLE. Members can earn 3 hours of CLE credit in their own or nearby district. Agenda This year attendees can look forward to learning about the amendments made to the […]

Find more information here: https://www.courtswv.gov/sites/default/pubfilesmnt/2024-01/2024InteresRatReleas240103.pdf

It has come to the attention of the WV State Bar that an organization claiming to provide oil & gas services and has assets that are located in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio has contacted multiple attorneys while attempting to commit fraud. After investigating the company, the state they claimed to conduct business out of […]

Sponsor: WV State Bar Appellate Committee The West Virginia State Bar had a FREE CLE Seminar on June 28, 2022 at the State Bar Center in Charleston, WV. The seminar was also broadcasted statewide via phone and video conference. Those watching this video as a recording will need to self report Online/AV CLE credits after […]

Below is an IRS Press release regarding recent scams targeting Tax Professionals. With tax season in full swing, the Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and tax industry today warned tax professionals of new email scams that attempt to steal their tax software preparation credentials. The Security Summit partners warned these  scams serve as a […]

The West Virginia State Bar, with the support of Association Options, is recruiting and evaluating candidates for the position of Executive Director. Click here to view the complete position profile and to apply Questions may be directed to Meggan Teague, Vice President of Strategy and Executive Search, at mteague@associationoptions.com

Below is a screen-shot of what appears to be a phishing e-mail purporting to be for jury duty in a “federal class action” in Washington DC. The links are fraudulent and attempt to capture your personal information.

On October 28, 2021 a firm reported their email had been compromised and that phishing emails were being sent out with fraudulent links. Below is an image showing what the email looked like. Please use caution opening any emails like this that lead you to somewhere that asks for your username and password. These types […]

cybersecurity Resources Multi Factor Authentication Multifactor authentication (MFA) is defined as a security process that requires more than one method of authentication from independent sources to verify the user’s identity. Think before you click Phishing attacks use email or malicious websites to infect your machine with malware and viruses to collect personal and financial information. […]

The WV State Bar has been contacted regarding an email that contains a blue box with a yellow link that says “Review Document”.  When you click on the link it then takes you to a fake “google sites” website and asks for you to login. It then collects your email and password and takes you […]

The West Virginia State Bar’s Veteran and Military Affairs Committee is participating in the Marine Corp Reserve’s Toys for Tots program again this year. If you are interested in volunteering to help by hosting a drop box, collecting, and/or sorting toys, please contact Anita Casey at caseya@wvbar.org. Collections will be done during the month of November. Sorting […]

The time schedule to follow on Keller issues is available on the State Bar’s website or  Click here for Keller Notice . If any member has questions concerning this matter, please contact Mary Jane Pickens at The West Virginia State Bar at 304-553-7237 or by email at pickensmj@wvbar.org. Challenges should be directed to Executive Director Mary Jane Pickens and […]

Board of Governors Officers Thomas E. Scarr – President Benjamin M. Mishoe, President-Elect Christopher B. Frost, Vice President   Board of Governors from Districts 9 through 12 and African American Representative Joshua T. Thompson, Pineville Sarah W. Harmon, Princeton R. Grady Ford, Lewisburg G. Isaac Sponaugle III, Franklin Kimberley D. Crockett, Martinsburg   Young Lawyer […]

2021 State Bar Membership Directory – NOW AVAILABLE The 2021 edition of the West Virginia State Bar Membership Directory is now available. Click here to login and download a digital pdf version or Click here to order a paper version.

The Greenbrier continues to take significant steps to protect the health and safety of its guests and employees during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. As a guest and attendee of the Annual Meeting at the Greenbrier, you are asked to take personal responsibility by wearing a mask indoors, following social distancing, respecting the personal space of […]

Attorneys admitted to the WV State Bar between May 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020 have been granted a one-year extension of time to complete mandatory the Bridge-the-Gap Program. This extension is in addition to the one-year extension previously granted by the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia to those admitted between July 1, […]

The State Bar Center will be open for individual/in-person access for members beginning March 1, 2021. Masks will be required. Group meetings will continue to be held via Zoom access until further notice. Bar staff remain available and happy to answer questions and/or assist members of the Bar and public, via telephone or email, during normal […]

Due to ongoing concerns associated with the COVID-19 virus, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has granted a request from the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission for a temporary waiver of current CLE rules and regulations which limit the CLE credits for online and in-house credits to 12 credits, or half of the […]

The West Virginia State Bar has received notification from the Task Force that on January 25 at 8:00 a.m. attorneys over 65 years old can register for the COVID19 vaccine using the new state registration system in accordance with the allocation plan. Use the registration link below to sign up for a vaccine even if […]

For confidential assistance and consultation regarding emotional or mental health issues call our Judicial and Lawyer Assistance Program staff at (304) 553-7232 or visit wvjlap.org for additional information and resources. The West Virginia State Bar conducted a member survey to determine what our members believe are their primary needs as they return to a “new […]

After over a decade of collaborative work with the West Virginia Secretary of State (“SOS”), the West Virginia State Bar (“Bar”) is pleased to announce that a new automated procedure for filing a new and/or renewing an application for a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) has been set up through the SOS’s One Stop Business […]

Some WV State Bar Members who are not a part of the WV Lawyer Referral Service have received fraudulent emails asking if their firm handles “Litigation Cases”. The email comes from an out of country email address. If you have received emails like this please do not respond to them. If you are a part […]

CLE REPORTING DEADLINE – FINAL NOTICE   The 2018-2020 CLE reporting period ends on September 30, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. No further extensions will be given for this reporting period. You will be required to pay a $50 late fee before any credits can be reported after October 1, 2020. Suspension procedures will commence on […]

On July 23, 2020, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia entered an order approving amendments to the Notice of Appeal form attached as Appendix A to the Rules of Appellate Procedure. The amendments modify three portions of the Notice of Appeal form: Sections 15 and 18 and the Appellate Transcript Request Form. Notably, […]

On July 23, 2020, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia entered an order approving amendments to Rule 38 of the Rules of Appellate Procedure. By that order, effective September 1, 2020, facsimile filing is eliminated in the Office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. The amendments provide […]

CHICAGO, June 15, 2020 — The American Bar Association today announced the launch of the ABA Racial Equity in the Justice System website, which is a central clearinghouse of ABA-related information and resources for attorneys, the legal profession and the public on a wealth of issues addressing bias, racism and prejudice in the justice system […]

The leadership of the West Virginia State Bar has been deeply troubled by the death of George Floyd in Minnesota. The unrest we are witnessing stems from a desperate yearning for equal justice among all people in this Nation, whose heritage is rooted in protest against injustice. Now is an important time to remind ourselves […]

Swearing in of the 2020-2021 State Bar officers will take place on Friday, June 5, 2020 beginning at 3:00 p.m.   The ceremony will be available for on the Supreme Court’s website courtswv.gov. 

The West Virginia Board of Law Examiners, with the approval of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, plans to proceed with the administration of the Uniform Bar Examination on July 28 and 29, 2020. Further information for applicants is available on the Court’s website at http://www.courtswv.gov/legal-community/board-of-law-examiners.html.

The Bar acknowledges and thanks Past-President Thomas J. Hurney, Jr. for preparing the attached summary of protocols for reopening West Virginia State Courts and United States District Courts. Click here to view the “Guide”

Since the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia (“the Court”) released the March 12,2020 COVID-19 Planning Document, the COVID-19 pandemic response has evolved to meet thetask. The Court has taken all necessary steps to both address the pandemic and allow access to thecourts through the issuance of protocols, multiple administrative orders, and several internalguidance […]

Supreme Court Extends CLE Reporting Period and Bridge the Gap Completion Dates   Due to ongoing CLE issues caused by the COVID-19 virus, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has granted a request from the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission for a one-year extension for completion of the Bridge the Gap program for […]

The West Virginia State Bar is pleased to announce the newly elected BOG & YLS officers. BOARD OF GOVERNORS President Monica N Haddad President-Elect Thomas E. Scarr Vice-President Benjamin M Mishoe YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION Chairperson ERIC M. HAYHURST Vice-Chair ANGELA N. BRUNICARDI-DOSS Secretary ASHTON L. BIAS

In order to protect the health and well-being of court employees, litigants, witnesses. jurors, attorneys, and the general public. a judicial emergency is declared for the day(s) of March 23, 2020, through May 1, 2020, in all fifty-five (55) counties in West Virginia. Pursuant to W. Va. Code §2-2-2(a).

Last week, Fastcase announced the launch of the Fastcase COVID-19 Resources page. This resources hub was created to centralize real-time, relevant information and resources about COVID-19’s impact on our community to arm you with information you need. In addition to Fastcase, Docket Alarm and Law Street Media free legal resources, we wanted to support and highlight […]

WASHINGTON, April 3, 2020 – The American Bar Association’s Task Force on Legal Needs Arising Out of the 2020 Pandemic launched a website today to provide information about resources, changes in benefits and emerging legal issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The task force, which includes representatives from the top legal organizations in the country, […]

Per Rule 6.05 (f) of the new State Bar Administrative Rules: A lawyer may obtain one credit hour for every three completed hours of pro bono legal service which satisfies Rule 6.1 of the West Virginia Rules of Professional Conduct and is performed during the reporting period through one or more of the following approved […]

The WV State Bar held a Intellectual Property Seminar on March 24, 2020. Attorneys interested in watching the pre-recorded seminar and earning online CLE credit can view the video below. Click Here for the seminar materials

Due to concerns associated with the COVID-19 virus, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has granted a request from the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission for a temporary waiver of current CLE rules and regulations which limit the CLE credits for online and in-house credits to 12 credits, or half of the mandatory […]

WV STATE BAR OPERATIONS:  The State Bar continues to operate during normal business hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.  Seminars and meetings continue to take place using the State Bar’s phone conference and/or video conference capabilities.  The offices are closed, however, to in-person meetings.  The offices will remain closed until, at […]

The WV State Bar held a Probate Law Seminar on Wednesday January 29, 2020. Attorneys interested in watching the pre-recorded seminar and earning online CLE credit can view the video below. Click Here for the seminar materials Click Here for the Probate Reform Package

On September 3, 2015, public hearings were held before the State Bar’s Unlawful Practice of Law (UPL) Committee on concerns that had been received regarding non-lawyers representing claimants before state administrative agencies. In July 2018, the UPL Committee submitted a report to the West Virginia Supreme Court regarding the Committee’s findings on non-lawyer representation of […]

 Click here for a complete copy of the State Bar Bylaws and Administrative Rules

Nominations for Citizen Soldier, Young Lawyer, and Mentor of the Year must be received no later than noon  on Monday, February 10, 2020. Citizen Soldier Nominations: The 2020 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2020 State Bar Annual Meeting.  To obtain information regarding the awards process Click here. Young Lawyer of the Year Nominations: […]

Please consider sponsoring the West Virginia State Bar’s 2020 Annual Meeting.  Sponsors are gratefully acknowledged and will be recognized in all email and hard copy publications of the State Bar through June of 2020.  A board showing all sponsors, which will be posted at the Meeting, will remain on display at the State Bar Center […]

The State Bar website will be undergoing upgrades during the week of January 6, 2020.  During the time the upgrades are being implemented, Bar members may experience some delays accessing www.wvbar.org.   The State Bar Membership Portal will continue to be available during the upgrade time period and members may  login at www.mywvbar.org.   If you have questions […]

The West Virginia State Bar Family Law Committee Presents – A FREE Public Presentation on Family Law Basics. This public education presentation is for any person that is interested in learning more about family law basics. The presentations will be held at multiple locations throughout the State of West Virginia. More locations coming soon. Click […]

Attorneys continue to be an attractive target for hackers due to the large amount of personal information they retain related to their clients. Increasingly more sophisticated phishing emails are one of the most common techniques hackers will use to access this information.  30% of phishing emails are opened, and 91% of hacking attacks begin with a […]

The West Virginia State Bar’s Veteran and Military Affairs Committee is participating in the Marine Corp Reserve’s Toys for Tots program again this year. Boxes have been distributed to participating law offices.  Toy pick-up will be on December 9 and 10, 2020.  If you are interested in volunteering to help by hosting a drop box, collecting and/or […]

October 20-26, 2019: To help celebrate the 2019 National Pro Bono week, The West Virginia State Bar invites it’s Bar members to participate in one of our committee sponsored volunteer programs. Since 2014, over 140 West Virginia licensed attorneys have volunteered their time to answer 2,300+ civil legal questions through West Virginia Free Legal Answers. […]

Sponsor: WV State Bar The West Virginia State Bar had a FREE CLE Seminar on September 17, 2019 at the State Bar Center in Charleston, WV. The seminar was also broadcasted statewide via phone and video conference. Those watching this video as a recording will need to self report Online/AV CLE credits after the activity […]

The State Bar is pleased to announce the exhibition of the art work of Saint Joseph Central Catholic High School students at the State Bar Center.  The students’ oil on canvas display of 17 pieces will be available for viewing until the end of December 2019.   Thank you is extended to the talented students and […]

The renovations to the State Bar’s Training Center have been completed and can be reserved by Bar members. The Training Center is located on the lower level of the State Bar Center and has the capacity to accommodate up to 35 attendees. If an attendee is unable to use stairs from the first floor to […]

The WV State Bar held a Succession Planning Seminar on Tuesday, April 30, 2019. Attorneys interested in watching the pre-recorded seminar and earning online CLE credit can view the video below. CLE: 3.0 Online/AV CLE Credits Including 3.0 Law office Management Credits

The West Virginia State Bar is pleased to announce new officers and members of The West Virginia State Bar Board of Governors for 2019-2020. New officers are Ann L. Haight – President, Charleston; Monica N. Haddad – President-Elect, Morgantown; and Thomas E. Scarr – Vice-President, Huntington. Newly Elected Members of the State Bar’s Board of […]

The West Virginia State Bar held its Annual Meeting and Seminar on April 7-8, 2019 at the Embassy Suites, Charleston, West Virginia. Speakers included Justice Adrienne Nelson from the Oregon Supreme Court, Terry Harrell, Chief Justice Elizabeth Walker, Bruce Hennes, Brian Moore, Katherine Capito, and Kanawha County Circuit Judges Joanna Tabit. The seminar was successful […]

The Supreme Court invites attorneys to contact their local high schools and middle schools and offer to help students learn about the appellate court system and prepare for LAWS, which is available statewide for the first time this year. LAWS – Legal Advancement for West Virginia Students – is a civic education program in which […]

Throughout January 2019 there have been reports from members receiving emails from fraudulent email accounts attempting to impersonate a State Bar staff member. If you receive one of these emails please mark it as spam and delete the message. The State Bar does not email invoices to members unless the member completes a form requesting […]

Multiple West Virginia Law Firms have reported scams involving “prospective clients” that use doctored information related to sexual harassment settlements. The prospective client provides very convincing evidence and a fake cahiers check to the attorney that is then rejected by your bank after processing. The basic premise is that the individual was an employee of […]

The State Bar is pleased to announce the exhibition of the art work of State Bar Member Bill Gerwig at the State Bar Center. Mr. Gerwig’s oil on canvas display of 20 pieces will be available for viewing until the end of May 2019.

The State Bar’s Legal Outreach Committee wishes to recognize the ABA Free Legal Answers 2018 Pro Bono Leaders. On January 24, 2019 the ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service, awarded Dawn White of Berkeley Springs, WV and Nigel Jeffries of Charleston, WV as ABA Free Legal Answers 2018 Pro Bono Leaders. The Committee presents this annual recognition […]

If you received a phishing email on 2/1/2019 from Phil Rosenthal due to his Fastcase email account being compromised.  The subject line is “RIVIEW DOCUMENT.”  For your own security, please do not open nor click the attachment.  Please delete the email immediately, if you haven’t already. The Fastcase team has taken immediate steps to further […]

Nominating petitions for Districts 1,2,3,4 and 5 were sent out to active members on January 15, 2019. Nominating Petitions must be received, by mail, email or fax no later than midnight  February 11, 2019, by the Executive Director of The West Virginia State Bar. District County List District 1: Brooke, Hancock and Ohio District 2: Marshall, […]

Nominations for Citizen Soldier, Young Lawyer and Mentor of the Year must be received no later than 11:29 p.m. on February 11, 2019. Citizen Soldier Nominations: The 2019 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2019 State Bar Annual Meeting. To obtain information regarding the awards process click here.         Young Lawyer of […]

THE FOLLOWING IS INFORMATION RELATED TO A LARGE DATA BREACH THAT MARRIOTT DISCOVERED. WE ARE PROVIDING THIS INFORMATION TO OUR MEMBERS BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IT MAY BE HELPFUL. __________________________________________________________________ MARRIOTT DATA BREACH: Basic Consumer Information WE ARE AWARE AND ACTIVELY MONITORING THE BREACH Marriott’s reservation database (Starwood Reservation Database) was hacked. Hackers mined/collected data for […]

The West Virginia State Bar is seeking candidates for the position of Commissioner of the Legislative Claims Commission. The State Bar Board of Governors will nominate three (3) lawyers and will submit these names to the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate for appointment to the Claims Commission. The term is […]

Fastcase will be unavailable due to a schedule maintenenance window over the weekend. It will be unavailable the evening of November 3 through 6am Sunday morning. This update will help Fastcase maintain a *faster* service, and allow us to stay ahead of large increases in Fastcase usage over the past year. Thank you for your patience […]

Please consider sponsoring the West Virginia State Bar’s 2019 Annual Meeting.  Sponsors are gratefully acknowledged and will be recognized in all email and hard copy publications of the State Bar through June of 2019.  A board showing all sponsors, which will be posted at the Meeting, will remain on display at the State Bar Center […]

Ten Regional Meetings will be held this fall. These meetings will provide 3.0 Continuing Legal Education credits in the areas of ethics, office management, substance abuse, and/or elimination of bias. Lunch will be included at each meeting. Each Regional Meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will last until, approximately, 1:30 p.m. One of The […]

The time schedule which will be followed on Keller issues is available on the Bar’s website at https://www.mywvbar.org/feeguidelines. If any member has a question concerning this matter, contact Anita Casey at The West Virginia State Bar at 304-553-7228 or by e-mail at caseya@wvbar.org.

The West Virginia State Bar Lawyer Referral Service was recently upgraded to a new system. Clients seeking attorneys now have the ability to request a consultation or find contact information for an attorney at www.wvlawyerreferral.org. The new system allows registered attorneys the ability to track their incoming referrals using www.wvlawyerreferral.org. To sign up as an […]

The WV State Bar held a Marijuana Law Seminar on Wednesday, May 23, 2018. Attorneys interested in watching the pre-recorded seminar and earning online CLE credit can view the video below. Click Here to report 3.0 Online/AV CLE Credit Hours Including 0.5 ethics Click Here to download the seminar materials

The Supreme Court of Appeals is Requesting Comment on Proposed Revisions to the Governance Documents for the West Virginia State Bar – the proposed revisions are set forth in the Court’s order. Click Here to view the proposed revisions.  Highlights of Proposed Revisions are – Constitution – Archaic provisions are eliminated and changes to membership […]

A Special Thank You to our Annual Gathering Sponsors GOLD SPONSORS   SILVER SPONSORS         COPPER SPONSORS           April 24, 2018 Quick Links In State CLE Calendar In Memory Of…2017-2018 Career Services Lawyer Referral Service Membership Directory Membership Portal Login The WV Lawyer WVBAR.ORG WV Young Lawyers WVODC.ORG Annual Gathering Sponsors […]

A Special Thank You to our Annual Gathering Sponsors GOLD SPONSORS   SILVER SPONSORS         COPPER SPONSORS           April 17, 2018 Quick Links In State CLE Calendar In Memory Of…2017-2018 Career Services Lawyer Referral Service Membership Directory Membership Portal Login The WV Lawyer WVBAR.ORG WV Young Lawyers WVODC.ORG Annual Gathering Sponsors […]

The Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has established the West Virginia Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being to make recommendations on how to address mental health and substance abuse issues in the legal profession. Below is a link to the Supreme Court Press Release and an article from the Gazette Mail. Click Here for […]

Dana Tippen Cutler is one of our speakers at the The 2018 Annual Gathering of the West Virginia State Bar. She is also co-host of “Couples Court With The Cutlers“. Check out her show before coming to see her discuss “We Are Who We Are, But is That All We’ll Ever Be? (Implicit Bias and Its […]

Press Release Contact: Anita R. Casey Executive Director 304-553-7228 caseya@wvbar.org   ACCESS TO JUSTICE FOUNDATION AWARDED GRANT FROM WEST VIRGINIA STATE BAR Click Here for pdf version Charleston, wv, FEBRUARY 19, 2018:  The West Virginia State Bar is pleased to announce a grant of $ 74,277.00 to the Access to Justice Foundation.  The grant money […]

Nominations for Citizen Soldier, Young Lawyer and Mentor of the Year must be received no later than 11:29 p.m. on Monday, March 12, 2018. Citizen Soldier Nominations: The 2018 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2018 Annual Gathering of The West Virginia State Bar at the Charleston Marriott. To obtain information regarding the awards process click […]

Join the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, the WVU College of Law, and the West Virginia State Bar at the WVU College of Law on January 22, 2018-5:30-7:00PM- as we connect with other law industry leaders and launch the 2017-2018 1L Mentoring Program. The evening will include networking, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres. To RSVP, click here.

On December 7, 2017 a few members of the State Bar received phishing emails with the subject “FYI” If you received this email please delete it and do not open the attachment. Below is a screenshot of the details.  

A vacancy on the Board of Governors for District 3 has occurred. It is the decision of the State Bar Board of Governors that the vacancy should be filled by election of the members from that District. The member elected will serve until April of 2019. Consistent with the bylaws for regular elections, nominations for […]

The following message was reported as fraudulent. Steptoe & Johnson PLLC reported the activity. Sent: Tuesday, November 07, 2017 1:17 PM Subject: FYI – Amazon Gift Cards (Do Not Click!) The Following E-mail is making the rounds and, as much as I wish to say we are giving away Gift Cards, the sad fact is […]

The State Bar Center will be sponsoring an opening reception to showcase the work of Charleston Catholic High School seniors at the State Bar Center on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 from 5:00pm-7:00pm. The showcase is part of a continuing collaborative partnership between the State Bar and local high schools & colleges. Click here for more information

The West Virginia Lawyer Disciplinary Board, End of Practice Committee, announces the completion and approval of Establishing a Succession Plan:  A Guide to Protecting your Clients’ Interests in the Event of Your Disability, Retirement, or Death.  The Guide provides information on why and how to prepare for a planned, or unplanned, closure of your law […]

Sponsor: WV State BarPresenters: Susana Duarte, Bruce Perrone and Sam Hanna The West Virginia State Bar had a FREE CLE Seminar on September 27, 2017 at the State Bar Center in Charleston, WV. The seminar was also broadcasted statewide via phone and video conference. Those watching this video as a recording will need to self report Online/AV […]

October 17th, 2017 Flood Relief Seminar Presenters & Topics: Ann Haight – Warnings about contractors, price gouging, and charities Tammy Bowles Raines – Flood Insurance Thomas Hancock – Dealing with FEMA appeals Kate White – Landlord/tenant and government benefits available in a disaster     Three Opportunities to assist in Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts September […]

August 22, 2017 – A toll-free legal aid hotline is now available for victims of the recent storms and flooding in West Virginia. The service, which allows callers to request the assistance of a lawyer, is a partnership between the West Virginia State Bar, Legal Aid of West Virginia, the American Bar Association Young Lawyers […]

The ABA Retirement Funds Program is hosting free  informational webinar titled: The Role of Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts within Employer-sponsored Retirement Plans.  Click Here to register. http://www.cdstudiohost.com/ABA/Webinars/2017_0822/

The upgraded WV Online Legal Help is here!  The website’s new name is West Virginia Free Legal Answers.  It is the state of West Virginia’s site as part of the ABA Free Legal Answers national site. Volunteers will find it similar to WV Online Legal Help, but much more user friendly.   We hope you’ll enjoy […]

CHARLESTON, WV—May 22, 2017 – Members of the West Virginia State Bar who have a valid WV driver’s license are now able to complete the application for their Bar Membership ID card online. With this new service, Bar members will be able to submit an application and pay for their membership ID card application electronically. […]

Suspicious emails have been going out to the general public saying you need to click on a link to “e-sign” a document through google or access a shared document. These emails claim to be relating to a document saved within Google Drive or E-Sign but are actually fraudulent phishing email links. Below is an example […]

The Importance of Law Day and the 14th Amendment Lawyers, let’s share our passion for constitutional democracy By Linda A. Klein President, American Bar Association Here are four legal puzzlers: An African American student wants to attend the same school as white children. Can she? A man is charged with burglary, but he can’t afford […]

2017 State Bar Regional Meetings: October 3-26, 2017 Dates & Locations: October 3 – University of Charleston – Charleston – Click to Register October 4 – Guyan Country Club – Huntington – Click to Register October 5 – The Blennerhassett – Parkersburg – Click to Register October 10 – Tamarack – Beckley – Click to Register October 11 – […]

CHARLESTON, WV, APRIL 3, 2017: The West Virginia State Bar is pleased to announce new officers and members of The West Virginia State Bar Board of Governors for 2017-2018. New officers are Meshea L. Poore – President, Charleston; Frederick M. Dean Rohrig – President-Elect, Middlebourne; and Ann L. Haight – Vice-President, Charleston. Newly Elected Members […]

On Tuesday March 21st, State Bar President McGhee reported that fraudulent emails are being sent out to bar members using his email address. The individual that is sending these emails is requesting payment information via email. These emails are being “spoofed” the individual is using an unauthenticated email server. These emails should be deleted as soon […]

The West Virginia State Auditors Office requested the State Bar send the following notification regarding fraudulent emails: On March 12, 2017 fraudulent emails were sent to a large number of people with the subject “Private Message From WVSAO” including a “Click here to Login to view the document now.” link that takes you to a […]

The West Virginia Judicial and Lawyer Assistance Program (WVJLAP) is pleased to announce that on September 20, 2017, the WV Supreme Court amended the rules, to incorporate confidential assistance to all West Virginia Judges, as well as Lawyers, Law Students, and Bar Applicants!  Please visit our website at wvjlap.org  for further information and services.

Nominations for Citizen Soldier, Young Lawyer of the Year, and Mentor of the Year are due no later than March 6, 2017. Citizen Soldier Nominations: The 2017 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2017 Annual Gathering of The West Virginia State Bar at the Charleston Marriott. To obtain information regarding the awards process click […]

The Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, West Virginia State Bar, and West Virginia University College of Law hosted the kick-off reception for the 1L Mentoring Program on January 19, 2017, at the WVU College of Law.

Click here for the Nominating Petition The West Virginia State Bar Board of Governors provides for the selection of a Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee to be elected by the Young Lawyers membership for a three‑year term.  One Executive Committee member is elected from each State Bar District, with the exception of District 8 where […]

Click here for the Nominating Petition The By‑Laws of The West Virginia State Bar provide for the election of a member to the Board of Governors for a three‑year term from State Bar Districts 6 through 10.  One Governor is elected from each State Bar District, with the exception of District 8 where four Governors […]

The West Virginia State Bar’s Annual Gathering is the ideal venue to reconnect with lawyers and friends – and to build new relationships – all while enjoying Charleston, West Virginia. Take advantage of excellent Marriott accommodation rates offered only to our members.* All are encouraged to attend the State Bar’s Annual Awards Banquet on Sunday, […]

The United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia has completed a draft of proposed amendments to the Local Rules of Civil Procedure. A redline version and related documents have been published on the Court’s website at www.wvsd.uscourts.gov. The Court invites your comments through Monday, January 23, 2017. Please be advised that […]

The WV Office of Disciplinary Council has advised that bar members in Pennsylvania, Texas and Maryland have reported receiving an email claiming a grievance has been filed against them and giving them 10 days to respond. The email invites them to “click here” for more information. None of the disciplinary agencies are responsible for these emails. […]

The West Virginia State Bar is excited to present a new member benefit. Endorsed by 45 states, and more than 50 local bar associations, LawPay is proud to be the preferred payment partner of more than 35,000 law firms. Designed specifically for the legal industry, LawPay provides attorneys with a simple, secure, and online way to accept […]

Freedom of Information Act Requests should be directed to Anita Casey Executive Director of the West Virginia State Bar and send via USPS or to caseya@wvbar.org.

The West Virginia State Bar is establishing a section of our website where members can post information or concerns they have regarding fraudulent emails, phishing scams or cyber threats.  The CYBER ALERTS section will be located under the “For Attorneys” tab.  Click Here to view the new section.Members are encouraged to post any information they […]

Charleston, WV – A WV State Bar member recently reported being hit with a wire fraud issue twice in the last year, and another law firm recently wired fund to the wrong account based on a fraudulent e-mail.  In both cases a realtor’s e-mail account was hacked.  In the first case, the buyer received alleged wire […]

The following email has been reported by multiple attorneys as being a fraudulent email.    

The State Bar has become aware of fraudulent schemes that have targeted lawyers’ client trust accounts throughout the country. From email that the ADO has received from its counterparts in other states, there appear to be two variations that have been used during the last few months. The first scheme is an advance fee “confidence scam” […]

The West Virginia State Bar is seeking candidates for the position of Judge of the Court of Claims. The State Bar Board of Governors will nominate three (3) lawyers and will submit these names to the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate for appointment to the Court. The term is for six (6) […]

The following counties require E-Filing: Marion, Jefferson. Monroe and Hampshire are voluntary. The E-Filing system can be accessed at https://efile.courtswva.com/Default.aspx Any questions contact the local circuit clerk’s office of the county for which you are filing.

The Veterans and Military affairs committee will be presenting a free seminar on November 10, 2016 from 10:30am – 12:30pm. Two hours of general CLE credit will be available. The seminars will be presented at Legal Aid Offices throughout the State. Click location below to register Charleston Beckley Clarksburg Elkins Huntington Lewisburg Logan Martinsburg Morgantown Parkersburg Princeton […]

 Ten Regional Meetings will be held this fall. These meetings will provide 3.0 Continuing Legal Education credits in the areas of ethics, office management, substance abuse, and/or elimination of bias. Lunch will be included at each meeting. Each Regional Meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will last until, approximately, 1:30 p.m. One of The […]

Pursuant to WVC §11-10A-6, the Governor shall appoint the Chief Administrative Law Judge from a list of three qualified nominees submitted to the Governor by the Board of Governors of the West Virginia State Bar for a four-year term.  Therefore, the Office of the Governor is seeking nominations for the position of Chief Administrative Law […]

In August a reprint of the 2016 Michie’s West Virginia State Court Rulesvolume was issued.  Due to errors and omissions in the previously issued 2016 volume, as well as the supplement thereto, this reprint completely replaces the January softbound volume AND the May 2016 softbound supplement for the state court rules. Remember that the print version is […]

According to a recent article from the ABA Journal, new email scams with fake disciplinary warnings & bar announcements are targeting lawyers throughout the country. Click here to view the ABA article.  

The West Virginia State Bar needs more volunteers to sign up to provide pro bono basic legal advice on West Virginia Online Legal Help (WVOLH).  WVOLH is a website where low-income West Virginians can post questions about their civil legal needs.  Volunteer attorneys answer those questions by providing basic information, legal advice and referrals for […]

On Thursday, July 7, 2016, Legal Aid of West Virginia held a webinar to provide attorneys with background information about FEMA benefits, disaster unemployment compensation, replacement of important documents, replacement of food lost with food stamps, ways to avoid contractor scams, dealing with landlord-tenant situations and more.  The goal of this webinar was to enable attorneys to […]

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As a result of the recent severe storms and flooding in West Virginia, the WV State Bar is working diligently to provide disaster legal assistance to individuals who have been affected. These efforts include working with State and national organizations such as Senator Manchin’s office, Legal Aid of West Virginia, the American Bar Association and […]

compliance@wvbar.org, our CLE Coordinator, will  be out of the office from June 29 – July 4.  If you have inquiries, please contact her before or after these dates.  No other Bar staff member will be able to assist you during this time period. If you have an inquiry between June 29 and July 4, please […]

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Pursuant to an Administrative Order entered May 19, 2016, the State Bar is no longer required to mail annual membership fee notices to inactive members who have failed to pay inactive membership fees for a period of three years. The State Bar shall adjust the membership status of any inactive member who has failed to […]

In order to insure that your PLLC is in compliance with the laws of The State of West Virginia, you need to file an annual renewal application with The State Bar. Any change in the corporate organization from the prior year must be reported. COPIES OF CURRENT CERTIFICATES OF INSURANCE ARE REQUIRED. Every PLLC must also […]

The current reporting period began July 1, 2014, and will end June 30, 2016. There is a 30-day grace period so credits completed in the month of July may be carried back to meet the 2014-2016 requirement.  As long as all required credits are completed and filed by July 31, 2016, there is no penalty. Credits filed after […]

The West Virginia State Bar would like to thank all sponsors of this year’s Annual Conference and Meeting. Over 260 individuals attended this year’s meeting, making it one of our most successful annual meetings in years. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS             Congratulations to the State Bar Award Recipients: Mentor of the […]

The WV State Bar and the WV Department of Education are proud to announce the results of their collaborative 2016 Video Competition. This year, there were 23 entries (12 middle school and 11 high school). The topic was “Magna Carta, Its Significance in its 800th Anniversary Year.” The winners in each category will attend the […]

The 2016 Young Lawyer of the Year Award will be presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting of The West Virginia State Bar in Charleston.  To obtain information regarding the awards process  click here. Nominations are due Monday, March 7, 2016 at midnight.

The 2016 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting of The West Virginia State Bar in Charleston. To obtain information regarding the awards process click here. Nominations are due Monday, March 7, 2016 at midnight.

The West Virginia State Bar now has video conferencing capability.  The conferences can be initiated statewide and require only an electronic device (PC, Mac, Android or IOS) with a camera.  Those without this capacity can still participate in the conference via phone.  Committee chairpersons may set up a conference from their office location if they […]

By Order entered January 21, 2016, the Supreme Court Administrative Offices in Charleston, including the clerk’s office, will be closed on Friday, January 22, 2016. Click here for a copy of the Administrative Order. County, circuit, family and magistrate court closures are determined by county.   Click here for an updated list of closures. The West […]

CHARLESTON, W.Va., January 5, 2015 – The West Virginia State Bar received $329,000 from a U.S. Department of Justice settlement with Bank of America that will help legal services organizations in the state provide foreclosure-prevention assistance to indigent citizens and/or support community redevelopment legal services. Anne Werum Lambright, chair of its Interest on Lawyer Trust […]

On December 18, 2015, George Daugherty – Executive Director of the Lawyer Assistance Program – and his son (Tom Daugherty) treated the State Bar staff to a special holiday performance. Here is part of his performance.  

The Committee formerly known by the names Lawyer Information and Referral Service and Tuesday Legal Connect has changed its name to The Legal Outreach Committee. The change of name reflects the progress the Committee has made during the past few years making legal services more readily and easily available to the public. The Committee now […]

On November 3, 2015 the Government Lawyers Committee held a reception at the Charleston offices of Pullin, Fowler, Flanagan, Brown & Poe. Below are photos from the event.

In Plain Cite is a podcast about developments in constitutional and federal criminal law produced by the Federal Public Defender office in the Southern District of West Virginia. Since its launch in July 2015, topics discussed on the show have included the Supreme Court’s recent opinion in Johnson v. United States that declared a major […]

Pursuant to an Administrative Order entered by the Supreme Court on May 21, 2013, (click here for a copy of the Order) the West Virginia State Bar developed an electronic voting system for use in Board of Governor and Young Lawyer Section Executive Committee elections. By Resolution of the State Bar Standing Committee on Elections, […]

President Michael W. Frazier recently attended meetings of the Braxton and Cabell County Bars.  To request that President Frazier, or another officer or executive director of the State Bar, attend your county or regional Bar meeting, contact Anita R. Casey atcaseya@wvbar.org. Arrangements can be made to have a one (1) hour CLE presentation made.  

WV State Bar Sponsored Video Competition: subject, The Significance of the Magna Carta on its 800th anniversary. CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE CHARLESTON, WV, October 22, 2015: The West Virginia State Bar announced today that it is again sponsoring a video competition. The competition is open to every West Virginia middle school and high […]

  Introducing Best Buy for Business Substantial savings from one of the nation’s top consumer electronics companies.  Members can get great pricing on over 150,000 brand-name products from Best Buy for Business. NPP’s contract with Best Buy gives you top-tier pricing on the latest energy-saving appliances, Air Conditioning units, Audio/Visual products, computers, surveillance systems and […]

The West Virginia State Bar’s Veterans and Military Affairs Committee will be hosting a webinar on Friday, October 30, 2015.  The webinar will be live in Beckley and will be broadcast to the Veterans Administration Medical Centers in Clarksburg, Huntington, and Martinsburg. The webinar, which will run from 10:00 – 11:40, has been approved for […]

The open hearing scheduled by the West Virginia State Bar’s Unlawful Practice of Law Committee on the issue of whether the appearance by non-lawyers in an advocacy role in state administrative proceedings constitutes the unlawful practice of law will have a location change to the Ceremonial Courtroom at the Kanawha County Courthouse located at 409 […]

Charity Roast of WVU President E. Gordon Gee The WV Bar Foundation’s Board of Directors invites members of the judiciary, the legal profession and the general public to attend the 5th Lunch and Laughs With A Legal Legend on Friday, September 11, 2015, at the Erickson Alumni Center in Morgantown, beginning at 11:30 AM, where […]

The West Virginia Tax Institute, sponsored by The West Virginia Bar Association, The West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accounts, The College of Law, the College of Business and Economics and West Virginia University, will present the 66th Annual Meeting beginning Sunday evening, October 18, 2015 and continuing through 12:30 pm on Tuesday afternoon, October […]

The West Virginia Human Rights Commission is providing notice of public comment on the Proposed Legislative Rule, 77CSR10 Pregnant Workers’ Fairness Act (PWFA). Click Here to view the proposed rule. Please submit comments in writing to: Marykaye Jacquet, Executive Director West Virginia Human Rights Commission, Room 108A 1321 Plaza East Charleston, WV 25301-1400 Mary.K.Jacquet@wv.gov 304-558-2616, ext. […]

Southern District of West Virginia Public Notice for Appointment of a New Magistrate Judge The Judicial Conference of the United States has authorized the appointment of a full-time United States magistrate judge for the Southern District of West Virginia at Bluefield. The current annual salary of the position is $185,012.00. The term of office is […]

College Summit West Virginia is a nonprofit that operates in low-income areas to raise the college-going rate among high school students. College Summit works to empower students, supporting them in the college application process. College Summit West Virginia is currently looking for individuals to serve as Writing Coaches. Volunteers are given private suites to stay […]

In order to insure that your PLLC is in compliance with the laws of The State of West Virginia, you need to file an annual renewal application with The State Bar. Any change in the corporate organization from the prior year must be reported and COPIES OF CURRENT CERTIFICATES OF INSURANCE ARE REQUIRED. Every PLLC […]

“Making Money Talk – Effective Negotiations in Mediation” – Advanced Mediation Training The ADR Committee will be sponsoring a negotiations trainingwith  Andy Little, a nationally recognized mediator and negotiations trainer, and author of the book MAKING MONEY TALK.  This training will take place on July 14, 2015, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at the Bridgeport Conference […]

The University of Charleston’s Art program is proud to announce its first student exhibition in the West Virginia State Bar Center. This year’s Senior Art Exhibition is the latest project in the ongoing partnership between the two institutions that allows students and professors from UC to utilize the State Bar’s offices for various projects. The […]

The West Virginia State Bar is pleased to announce, congratulate and welcome the newest members of The State Bar Board of Governors and the Young Lawyers Executive Committee: BOARD OF GOVERNORS District 11 – Courtney A. Kirtley – Summersville District 12 – J. Burton Hunter III – Buckhannon District 13 – William J. O’Brien – […]

October 13-29, 2015: The West Virginia State Bar will hold nine Regional Meetings  this fall. These meetings will provide 3.0 Continuing Legal Education credits including 2 credits in the areas of ethics, office management, substance abuse, and/or elimination of bias. The seminars have only been approved for CLE credit in West Virginia. Lunch will be […]

BAR FOUNDATION FELLOWS DINNER APRIL 23, 2015-CHARLESTON MARRIOTT HOTEL The WV Bar Foundation Board of Directors is very pleased to announce the outstanding members of the 17th class of Bar Foundation Fellows. The criteria for the Fellows is “those judges and lawyers whose professional, public and private careers have demonstrated outstanding dedication to the welfare of […]

The 2015 edition of the membership directory is now available. Log into the Membership Portal at www.mywvbar.org, click on the Members drop down menu and then click Membership Directory to download the .pdf file.Click here for instructions and tips on how to navigate the digital version of the directory. If you wish to order a paper version click […]

On January 13, 2015 nominating petitions were mailed via USPS to members in Districts 11-16 and the African American Representative. When signed by the requisite number of members, the petition must be received, by mail, email or fax no later than midnight February 10, 2015, by the Executive Director of The West Virginia State Bar. Board […]

The National Energy and Sustainability Moot Court Competition, March 12-14 at WVU Law, is looking for volunteer judges. For the early rounds, a judge must be an attorney of good standing licensed to practice law in any state. Final round (afternoon of March 14) judges must be a federal or state appellate judge. Now in […]

Pursuant to WVC §11-10A-6, the Governor shall appoint the Chief Administrative Law Judge from a list of three qualified nominees submitted to the Governor by the Board of Governors of the West Virginia State Bar for a four-year term.  Therefore, the Office of the Governor is seeking nominations for the position of Chief Administrative Law […]

The State Bar is in need of volunteer attorneys on Tuesday evenings in January 2015 to field legal questions from the public as part of the “Tuesday Legal Connect” program. Volunteers would work out of the Legal Aid of WV office located at 922 Quarrier Street, Charleston, WV from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm. If you […]

The YLS Executive Committee has a vacancy for a District Representative in Districts 4, 6 & 15. If you are interested in serving on the YLS Executive Committee as a District Representative, please send an email to Jason Foster at Jason.foster@steptoe-johnson.com by January 6, 2015.

Important changes to the West Virginia pro hac vice admission procedures become effective January 1, 2015. Due to the New Year Holiday these changes will be available online starting January 2, 2015. These changes include a new $350 annual fee to be paid by out-of-state lawyers admitted pro hac vice for one year or more. […]

The West Virginia State Bar’s independent audit for 2013-14 is now available.  A copy of the audit will be made available to any member who requests same.  The request should be directed to Anita Casey at caseya@wvbar.org.

The WV State Bar Government Lawyers Committee is sponsoring a reception at the offices of Pullin, Fowler, Flanagan, Brown & Poe at  901 Quarrier Street, Charleston, from 5 to 8:00 pm on Tuesday evening, November 18th for all lawyers who work with or interact with governmental entities. Please plan to join us and catch up […]

The West Virginia Bankers Association, the Community Bankers of West Virginia and the West Virginia State Bar have been working collaboratively to address questions created by the implementation of new State Bar Administrative Rule 10 related to the set up and administration of IOLTA accounts.  All three organizations are aware that the new Rule creates […]

The Defense Trial Counsel of WV will hold its Trial Academy on November 14 & 15 at the Robert C Byrd Federal Courthouse in Charleston.  CLE is pending but registration has begun. Click here for the link to the brochure.

A position will be open for Judge of the West Virginia Court of Claims.  The State Bar Board of Governors will nominate three (3) lawyers (the applicant may not be affiliated with the Democratic Party) and will submit these names to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate for appointment to the […]

The Court is Requesting Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Rule 15A.04 of the West Virginia Trial Court Rules. Comments must be filed in writing on or before the deadline of October 31, 2014, with the Clerk of the Court. Click here for a copy of the order  

West Virginia University College of law invites applications for the position of Director of the Academic Excellence Center. Applicants must be an active member of The West Virginia State Bar. The Academic Excellence Center seeks to enhance the academic performance of law students and to help them thrive at every stage of their law school career […]

The State Bar’s Veterans and Military Affairs Committee is offering two hours of CLE credit on Monday, November 10, 2014 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.  The two hour seminar, addressing veteran’s issues, will be held at Legal Aid of West Virginia’s Charleston office.  The interactive seminar will be broadcast to 11 other Legal Aid offices […]

JACK BOWMAN-LUNCH AND LAUGHS-OCTOBER 17-MORGANTOWN The Bar Foundation’s Board of Directors is very pleased that Forest “Jack” Bowman, Professor Emeritus of the WVU College of Law, will be the honored guest during the 4th Annual Lunch and Laughs With a Legal Legend on Friday, October 17, 2014, at the Erickson Alumni Center in Morgantown, beginning at […]

The Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia is sponsoring training this November for guardians ad litem in family court and child abuse/neglect cases.  Completing this training will satisfy new requirements for both types of guardians ad litem. REGISTRATION: Pre-registration is required for the training.  Once space is full, a waiting list will be implemented, so […]

The Judicial Vacancy Advisory Commission is currently receiving applications to fill the judicial vacancy on the 13th Judicial Circuit serving Kanawha County. Candidates must submit their completed applications by no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2014.  The deadline for submittal of letters of recommendation or comment is September 19, 2014.  Applications and instructions are available […]

The West Virginia State Bar, in conjunction with the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, is pleased to offer a new service to our members.  In addition to receiving emails advising of situations, disseminated by the Supreme Court, which may impact your practice (these notifications include courthouse closings or similar events in your county […]

The West Virginia State Bar is excited to announce a new opportunity for attorneys to provide pro bono assistance to the public anytime, from anywhere.  West Virginia Online Legal Help(www.wvonlinelegalhelp.org)is a new website where low-income West Virginians can post questions about their civil legal needs.  The questions are answered by volunteer attorneys, who provide basic […]

The Judicial Vacancy Advisory Commission is currently receiving applications to fill the judicial vacancy on the 8th Family Court Judicial Circuit serving Mingo County.  Candidates must submit their completed applications by no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 19, 2014. Applications and instructions are available at www.governor.wv.gov.  To contact the Commission regarding the application process, […]

THE 2012-2014 REPORTING PERIOD ENDED ON JUNE 30, 2014. The filing deadline was July 31, 2014. Active members of the Bar are required to complete and file 24 approved credits, including at least 3 credits in legal ethics, office management, substance abuse, and/or elimination of bias in the legal profession credits between July 1, 2012 […]

Filing fees will increase for all Civil Cases July 1, 2014 to $200. This fee change adds a new fee of $200 for defendants filing counterclaims, cross claims, third party complaints and motions to intervene. The fee for miscellaneous petitions in family court will increase to $200 this includes Paternity, Child Support, Visitation and Custody, […]

WEST VIRGINIA ETHICS COMMISSION TO CONDUCT TRAINING ON GOVERNMENTAL ETHICS ACT ON MAY 29 IN HUNTINGTON   CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Ethics Commission announced today that it will offer a one-hour ethics training session on the West Virginia Governmental Ethics Act on Thursday, May 29, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Cabell County […]

In order to insure that your PLLC is in compliance with the laws of The State of West Virginia, you need to file an annual renewal application with The State Bar. Any change in the corporate organization from the prior year must be reported and copies of current certificates of insurance are required. Every PLLC […]

The West Virginia State Bar is excited to announce that its Lawyer Referral Service website is up and running.  The website contains both general information and definitions on specific areas of the law.  The site also provides links to other related websites and service providers.  Members of the public are able to “surf” the site […]

2014 Annual Conference: “We are in this together”                 This year’s Annual Conference will be held June 12-13 at Oglebay Resort & Conference Center.  The event is for public defender and private attorneys committed to representing the indigent in criminal and family court, at all experience levels.  Please monitor the PDS website at www.pds.wv.gov for […]

The USCIS Charleston Field Office, the only immigration service provider of its kind in West Virginia, will soon be relocating. Questions about this important move may be addressed to the WVU Immigration Law Clinic, at immigrationclinicofwvu@gmail.com.

Members of the Bar are invited to the retirement celebration for WVU Professor of Law and Dean Emeritus John Fisher on Wednesday, May 7, 2014, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the College’s new Event Hall. The John W. Fisher II Courtroom will be dedicated at 5:30 p.m. Please RSVP with names of all […]

By order entered April 14, 2014, the Court approved a 60-day period of public comment on major revisions to the Rules of Professional Conduct that are intended to update the rules in conformity with West Virginia law, and are largely patterned after the American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct.  As a consequence of […]

By order entered April 11, 2014, the Court approved a 30-day period of public comment on proposed revisions to Trial Court Rule 29, governing the Business Court Division. The public comment period closes on Monday, May 12, 2014. To review the proposed changes, click here

The West Virginia State Bar would like to congratulate its newest members of the Board of Governors and Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee. PRESS RELEASE District Board of Governors Young Lawyers Section Executive Committee District 6 Robert H. Carlton —- District 7 Robert B. Kuenzel, II Steven S. Wolfe District 8 Ann L. Haight Evan […]

The 2014 Young Lawyer Mentor of the Year Award will be presented at the 2014 Annual Meeting of The West Virginia State Bar in Charleston, W.Va., on May 10, 2014.  To obtain information regarding the awards process click here. Nominations are due March 31, 2014.

The 2014 Young Lawyer of the Year Award will be presented at the 2014 Annual Meeting of The West Virginia State Bar in Charleston, W.Va., on May 10, 2014.  To obtain information regarding the awards process  click here. Nominations are due March 31, 2014.

The 2014 Citizen Soldier Award will be presented at the 2014 Annual Meeting of The West Virginia State Bar in Charleston, W.Va., on May 10, 2014.  To obtain information regarding the awards process click here. Nominations are due March 31, 2014.

The State Bar’s Tuesday evening, 6-8:00 P.M. call in service, formerly known as the Lawyer Information Service, has a new name.  The service, intended to provide quick information to members of the public on basic legal issues, is staffed by volunteer members of the State Bar.  The service has been renamed Tuesday Legal Connect (aka:  […]

The United States District Court for Southern District of West Virginia is currently accepting applications for appointment to the Criminal Justice Act Panel.  Members in good standing of the federal bar of the Southern District who have relevant experience and a desire to provide quality representation to indigent defendants in a variety of criminal matters […]

Renowned estate planning speakers Charles Ratner and Laura Malone will present a four-hour continuing education seminar on the topics of “Use of Life Insurance in Estate Planning” and “Business Transition Planning” respectively on February 27 in conjunction with the North Central West Virginia Estate Planning Council. The opening session at the WVU Erickson Alumni Center […]

The Mountain State Bar Association will hold its annual MCLE on Friday, May 16, 2014.  The Mountain State Bar Association has a great line up of speakers offering a total of six (6) MCLE hours including two (2) ethic hours.  Join us at Big Sandy Super Arena in Huntington, West Virginia.  Contact Attorney Dwight Staples […]

On January 13, 2014 nominating petitions were mailed via USPS to members in Districts 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10. When signed by the requisite number of members, the petition must be received, by mail, email or fax no later than midnight February 11, 2014, by the Executive Director of The West Virginia State Bar. Board […]

The National Energy and Sustainability Moot Court Competition at WVU Law is looking for volunteer judges. Judges are needed on March 27 at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m.; March 28 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and March 29 at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. For the early rounds, a judge […]

The Administrative Office of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia has set the interest rate at 7.00% percent for judgments and decrees entered during the 2014 calendar year.  Click here for the order.

The State Bar’s Intellectual Property Law Committee is seeking a chairperson.  If you are interested in serving as chairperson, and revitalizing the Committee’s activities, please contact Anita Casey at caseya@wvbar.org or 304-553-7228.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Office of Disciplinary Counsel City Center East, Suite 1200C • 4700 MacCorkle Avene SE Charleston, West Virginia  25304 Telephone (304) 558-7999 • Fax: (304) 558-4015 For Immediate Release Date:           January 13, 2014 Contact:      Rachael L. Fletcher Cipoletti Chief Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel Phone:         (304) 558-7999 Fax:             (304) 558-4015 The primary purpose […]

The 2014 edition of the membership directory is now available. Log into the Membership Portal at www.mywvbar.org/directory and download the .pdf file. Click here for instructions and tips on how to navigate the digital version of the directory. If you wish to order a paper version click here for the order form.  Please note you may be […]

The West Virginia State Bar administrative office will be closed on Friday, January 10th due to a water emergency.

  The State Bar’s database for submission of Continuing Legal Education credits is up and running. Members may enter their own CLE credits and obtain an immediate confirmation that the submissions have been received. Members will be able to select the seminar attended from a list of seminars approved by the Commission. Effective January 1, […]

WEST VIRGINIA ETHICS COMMISSION TO CONDUCT TRAINING ON GOVERNMENTAL ETHICS ACT ON JANUARY 7 IN BECKLEY CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Ethics Commission announced today that it will offer a one-hour ethics training session on the West Virginia Governmental Ethics Act on Tuesday, January 7, beginning at 11 a.m. in Munson Hall at the Raleigh […]

The West Virginia Fund for Law in the Public Interest seeks donations to help us fund WVU law students who want to work in summer and full-time jobs with legal aid, the public defender and other WV public interest organizations. There is good news for our donors.  The Fund has been granted permission by the […]

Are you a 2013 graduate of the WVU College of Law, or do you have a 2013 grad working for you?  If so, the WVU LAW Career Services Center needs to know the graduate’s employment status as part of the REQUIRED data to be submitted to the ABA.  This information is crucial to issues such […]

The Lawyer Disciplinary Board approved the following L.E.O. at its October 25, 2013 meeting: L.E.O. 2013-02 Potential Conflicts of Interest for Federal Government or Military Attorneys Defending Agencies Against Furlough-related Complaints Click Here for the L.E.O

Request for public comment on the Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Procedure for Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, the Guidelines for Children’s Guardians Ad Litem in Child Abuse and Neglect Proceedings, and the required form Guardian Ad Litem Report. By order entered October 15, 2013, the Court approved a period of public comment on […]

Request for Comments on Proposed Amendments to the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, Rules of Civil Procedure, Rules of Criminal Procedure – On October 29, 2013, Matt Arrowood, Director of Circuit Clerk Services, presented proposed amendments to the West Virginia Trial Court Rules, West Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure, and Rules of Criminal Procedure, all […]

Recently the State Bar Lawyer Referral Service Committee passed a motion to change and add additional practice areas to the referral service. Click here to update your practice areas and contact information for wvlawyerreferral.org. We are also asking that you complete a short survey to keep the committee informed and hear feedback on how to […]

Professional Associations’ Agency, Inc. 2016 1/2 Kanawha Blvd., East, Charleston, WV 25311 Tel: 304-344-5320 FAX: 304-344-5316 Date: November 7, 2013 To: West Virginia State Bar Active Members Re: OPEN ENROLLMENT – WV State Bar Medical Insurance Program Ends November 30, 2013. Attorneys can take advantage of a once-a-year opportunity during November by enrolling in the […]

The State Bar Membership Portal (www.mywvbar.org) be closed for scheduled maintenance on the evening of Friday October 11th starting at 6pm until 9pm Sunday October 13th.

The Court has proposed amendments to the Rules of Lawyer Disciplinary Procedure to increase membership of the Lawyer Disciplinary Board. The comment period will end on October 7, 2013, please send all comments to WV Supreme Court of Appeals Clerk’s Office.

The Court has published Proposed amendments to the Rules for Admission to Practice Law to Require Board Member Residency. The comment period will end on October 7, 2013, please send all comments to the WV Supreme Court Clerks Office.

The West Virginia Public Defender services has published new guidelines for determining the eligibility of individuals for the representation that is made available under the provisions of Article 21 of Chapter 29 of the West Virginia Code.  The guidelines shall take effect on October 1, 2013. Click here for the new guidelines.

The Office of the West Virginia Attorney General is encouraging qualified law firms and attorneys to submit proposals for several Requests for Proposal that are currently pending on the Attorney General’s website.  Specifically, the Office is seeking outside counsel legal services to represent the State in the following matters: Request for Proposal for Legal Services […]

The West Virginia Tax Institute, sponsored by The West Virginia Bar Association, The West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accounts, The College of Law, the College of Business and Economics and West Virginia University, will present the 64th Annual Meeting beginning Sunday evening, October 20, 2013 and continuing through 12:30 pm on Tuesday afternoon, October […]

Drugged driving enforcement got heavy attention in the 2013 legislative session.  Learn the details and defenses to the Drug Recognition Expert Protocol in Morgantown on September 24-25, 2013, at the Waterfront Place Hotel.  19.2 hours of WV CLE credit (1.2 hours of ethics is approved. Contact attorney Todd La Neve for details at 304-624-1700 or tlaneve@8777WVLAWS.com. Full details of […]

The West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind are attempting to determine if there are lawyers in West Virginia who are themselves deaf or have a particular interest in the issues of the deaf community.  Likewise, are there lawyers who are blind or have represented persons who are blind in issues around access. […]

A big crowd of more than 170 people are registered to attend the third Lunch and Laughs with a Legal Legend event, which will be held on Friday, September 13, 2013, at the Erickson Alumni Center in Morgantown. U. S. District Court Judge Irene M. Keeley of Clarksburg will be the honored guest for this “friendly […]

Commander William R. Hinerman of the US Navy would like to thank everyone who contributed to the donations sent to the children’s home in Kabul, Afghanistan!  The teachers, administrators, and children of the Women for Afghan Women Children’s Support Center very much appreciate the benevolent generosity. The donations were delivered on July 17th, requiring 2 pickup trucks […]

It is time to register for Fall 2013 on campus interviews (OCI)at the West Virginia University College of Law. There are two on campus interview sessions for law firms, courts, government agencies and corporations. The first session (week one) begins a week earlier than last year in order to keep pace with other schools’ interview […]

Due to the recognized increase in professional disciplinary cases and ethics investigations across all professions and in all segments of public service, a new State Bar Committee is being created so that interested members of the Bar can come together to discuss and share information, ideas and issues affecting those who need legal representation in […]

The current 2012-2014 MCLE reporting period does not end until June 30, 2014. We are working diligently to get MCLE submissions online again very  shortly. You can submit a paper form from our website or wait until our new system is up for online submissions. Thank you for your patience as   we upgrade our […]

Legal Aid of West Virginia and CONTACT Rape Crisis Center are hosting a free legal services day for sexual assault and stalking victims. The event is scheduled for Friday, August 16, 2013, at the Huntington Legal Aid office (1005 Sixth Avenue, Huntington, WV). Legal Aid is looking for attorneys to volunteer for the free legal […]

The Lawyer Disciplinary Board is soliciting public comments on the following Legal Ethics Opinions:      –   L.E.O. 2013-02    The Duty of Counsel to Treat a Child Represented by Counsel (A Guardian Ad Litem) the Same as Any Other Person or Party in Terms of Prohibited Direct Contact Please submit  your written comments to the following […]

Government Law is one of the largest legal practices in West Virginia.   The State Bar Government Lawyers Committee membership includes lawyers who serve or practice at all governmental levels. The Committee tackles probative issues relevant to our practice and would welcome your participation in the group’s activities.  The Committee’s 2013 organizational meeting is August 27, […]

The West Virginia Department of Transportation Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) Notice   Effective July 1, 2013 the rules set forth in 105CSR1 will apply to all matters pending before OAH. Further, OAH would remind all attorneys that OAH is a separate entity from the DMV and is in fact the administrative tribunal responsible for […]

The State Bar is updating the Practice Handbook Chapters, which are located on the YLS website (http://www.wvyounglawyers.com/handbook.html) and is requesting volunteers to either update existing handbook chapters or author needed chapters as follows: Update Volunteer Needed for: Chapter 2 – Administrative Law Chapter 9 – Collections Chapter 14 – Environmental Law Chapter 15 – Extraordinary […]

As of June 1, 2013 the West Virginia State Bar has transitioned its membership login website to www.mywvbar.org. All members must create a new password so they can obtain access to the new “Membership Portal”. The Membership Portal is a one stop website where you can change your contact information, submit annual reporting information, pay […]

Members of the West Virginia Bar recently elected four attorneys to serve on Legal Aid of West Virginia’s Board of Directors: Bader C. Giggenbach, Esq., of Monongalia County Robert J. Gaudio, Esq., of Ohio County Roger D. Forman, Esq., of Pocahontas County Anthony Spenia, Esq., of Cabell County New members were seated at Legal Aid’s […]

Legal Food Frenzy was started in a Martinsburg Law Office in 2011 to generate friendly competition with other firms in Berkeley County to see which firm could raise the most food for the local food pantry.  This year we are taking Legal Food Frenzy statewide – that is where your firm can help. We are […]

The Young Lawyer’s Executive Committee currently has a vacancy in District 12 (Braxton, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Randolph and Webster Counties).  If you are a young lawyer who is interested in serving on the YLS Committee, or if you know a young lawyer who would be a perfect candidate, please contact Jacqueline L. Sikora at jacqueline.sikora@courtswv.gov or […]

In order to insure that your PLLC is in compliance with the laws of The State of West Virginia, you need to file an annual renewal application with The State Bar. Any change in the corporate organization from the prior year must be reported and copies of current certificates of insurance are required. Every PLLC […]

The new version of the membership directory is now available. The directory is a digital .PDF file that can be saved to your computer. As a service to our members, this version of the directory is only available through the member login. Information available to the public remains unchanged (does not include member email addresses) […]

Commander William R. Hinerman and the West Virginia State Bar Veterans and Military Affairs Committee would like to offer the members of the WV State Bar the opportunity to send items to the human rights organization, Women for Afghan Women. They opened the Children’s Support Center in 2009 to provide shelter, food, clothes, and education […]

In order to better serve our members and the public, and to keep up with technology, the State Bar needs to replace its outdated phone system. The new technology and phone system will require the State Bar to change its current phone numbers. Effective November 1, 2012, the State Bar’s main and direct dial phone […]

Lawyers Without Borders, Inc., (www.lwob.org) seeks volunteer lawyers to assist as neutral independent court trial observers for the defense portion of the Caprivi trial, on-site in Namibia, beginning in February 2013.  Lawyers Without Borders, Inc., also seeks a volunteer lawyer manager liason who will assist the Namibia trial observers, assuring requirements for overseas travel are met,contacts made, and trial observation reports are filed, etc.  […]

JULY 1, 2012 – JUNE 30, 2013 MEMBERSHIP DUES CHANGES By now you should have received information concerning your membership dues for fiscal year 2012-2013 and for completion of your Financial Responsibility Disclosure and IOLTA reporting requirements. For the first time, dues payments can be made online by credit card. Click Here for a link […]

The West Virginia Rules of Professional Conduct allow attorneys who are licensed to practice law in the State to register as a Limited Liability Organization. In order to insure that the professional limited liability organization is in compliance with the laws of The State of West Virginia, the organization is required to file a renewal […]

Students Use Creativity to Promote the U.S. Constitution CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia students have channeled our founding fathers as part of the “We the People – the Constitution in our Lives” video contest. The West Virginia State Bar and the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) sponsored the contest for public school students in […]

Sign up now to be part of the State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service (LRS). LRS gives you access to potential clients and also assists with providing a service to our citizens in our State who seek legal advice and counseling. Through its companion Service, the Lawyer Information Service, referrals are made to lawyers who are […]

The West Virginia State Bar just moved a few miles away to a new location in Charleston, WV. Directions to the new WV State Bar Location: 1. Take Interstate 64 towards the WV State Capitol 2. At Exit 99 (Greenbrier St.) turn left on to North WV-114 towards Yeager Airport 3. Go approximately 0.9 miles […]