NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University College of Law continues to prepare graduates to provide legal services in communities throughout the state. For the Class of 2023, WVU Law reported 90 graduates with full employment – full-time, long-term work in a Bar Pass Required or J.D. Advantage position. That’s a rate of more than 87 percent.

In fact, 62 percent of these graduates stayed in West Virginia. The biggest share of graduates (24.3 percent) is employed at firms that employ up to 10 attorneys only.

"WVU Law is thankful for the investment the legal community of West Virginia makes in hiring our graduates as they begin the next steps in their careers as attorneys,” said Lauren McCartney, WVU Law’s Director of the Meredith Center for Career Services and Professional Development.

Three alumni who graduated in 2023 are now working to serve West Virginians in many facets of life.

"Our graduates have a long tradition of joining small law practices that provide accessible legal representation to individuals and small businesses around the state and country,” said McCartney. “WVU Law is proud to see so many of our graduates deciding to begin their careers in West Virginia."

Originally from the Eastern Panhandle in Summit Point, West Virginia, William Shultz did not always know he wanted to pursue law but says it has been one of the best decisions he’s ever made.

“As an animal science major, I was set on going to vet school and practicing in equine medicine,” said Shultz. “However, the more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea of becoming an attorney. Nearly everyone in my family worked in real estate and I thought becoming a closing attorney would be a great way to be involved and still help the community.”

Shultz currently works at his Aunt’s real estate firm, Catrow Law PLLC, in the Charles Town office.

“Property law was my favorite 1L class, and after doing my first summer internship with her, I knew it was where I wanted to practice,” he said. “I think my job provides a very special service. The purchase of a home or the creation of an estate plan is often one of the biggest financial decisions a person makes. It can be complicated and stressful, but I am able to help these folks navigate the process.”

In fact, Shultz says the connections he made at WVU Law have helped him nearly every day of his career.

“I am incredibly grateful that I get the chance to serve West Virginians, and soon-to-be West Virginians, every day,” he said. “I have so much love for this state and my community, and I get to share that with clients.”

Petersburg, West Virginia native Madison Martin also did not immediately choose a career in law.

“I went to college with no thought of being an attorney,” said Martin. “I graduated undergrad (with a business management degree) and worked in the Grant County Clerk’s Office, which is where everything fell into place. I was exposed to real estate and estate law and I really enjoyed those areas but felt unfulfilled. About that time, there was a pretty disturbing child exploitation case that caught my attention and ignited a fire inside me. It was then that I seriously considered law school."

“Being an attorney was everything I was looking for. It was a career in which I could make a difference, help my community, challenge myself, and support my family all while being able to stay in my hometown.”

Today, Martin works at Geary & Geary in her hometown of Petersburg and says it’s fulfilling to be able to help her community by lending a “helping hand.”

“Being in a rural practice requires me to be a jack-of-all-trades,” she said. “I’m a GAL (guardian ad litem), represent respondent parents in abuse and neglect cases; help people probate estates when loved ones pass away; prepare wills; powers of attorney; deeds; take criminal appointments; file expungements; and help people create businesses.”

“My favorite part by far is visiting with kids," she added." "I love going on school visits and home visits with them... They are so sweet and say funny things... It is so rewarding.”

Brigham Warf from Barboursville received a degree in public relations before pursuing law.

Warf admitted knowing that "the legal field was challenging yet rewarding" but giving back meaningfully remained his goal.

“Although being first-generation posed challenges," Warf noted obtaining his J.D., passing bar exams promised job security due integral role lawyers play."

“I chose WVU College because it's pivotal within state's legal sphere," adding classmates/professors/faculty connections beneficial practicing professionally here.”

Currently serving Oxley Rich Sammons PLLC Huntington as Associate Attorney,

Previously assisted during undergrad Marshall University tenure followed clerking two summers during WVU studies.

"My civil defense role ensures clients receive top representation amid litigation... Understanding dual perspectives crucial defending clients effectively."