Steptoe & Johnson

Working with clients to achieve their business goals, Steptoe & Johnson litigators seek a cost-effective, early resolution of every case, bearing in mind both the cost of litigation and the risk of encouraging additional lawsuits by settling cases that should be tried. By doing so, Steptoe & Johnson has gained a reputation for providing clients with common sense advice. Recognizing that cost control and time are critical factors, they also are adept at analysis, budgeting, and all types of alternative dispute resolution. Firm litigators have built a strong record in complex cases. This reputation, coupled with a willingness to take cases to trial when necessary, provides clients with exemplary service based on a client-focused partnering.

"This prominent team is admired for doing a consistently 'terrific job' for clients, who claim that the firm is 'our yardstick of quality.'" According to Chambers USA, which remarks on the group’s skill in obtaining "favorable judgments in a difficult litigation environment," all are “very impressed with the lawyers." "With a large team and a near century-long presence in West Virginia, this firm has impressive depth and breadth, representing clients in court in the complete range of litigation matters."

• 91 attorneys and 27 specialized paralegals (3 nurse paralegals)
• 4 Chambers USA Leaders in their Field
• 40 recognized as The Best Lawyers in America® 2012
• The Best Lawyers in America® top-listed litigators in 14 practices

• Ownership Disputes: Defended an oil and gas producer in a dispute over ownership of oil and gas rights worth over $70 million.
• Breach of Contract: Defended a Fortune 100 coal company in a $100 million fraud and breach of contract action.
• Insurance Bad Faith Litigation: Represented Fortune 500 insurance carriers in litigation where plaintiffs sued more than 400 insurance companies for violations of state Unfair Trade Practices Act.
• Antitrust: Represented a chemical manufacturer in a case by excluded piping contractor against area chemical plants involving numerous Sherman Act and state antitrust claims.
• Complex Litigation: Represented energy clients in cases regarding the duty to develop/protect from drainage and scope of mineral leasehold rights.
• Corporate Governance: Represented shareholders, officers and directors in breach of fiduciary duty, usurpation of corporate opportunity and fraud claims.
• Energy Litigation: Represented oil and gas developers in a mass tort action involving claims relating to fluid disposal wells and permit discharges.

• Business Litigation
• Energy Litigation
• General Litigation
• Insurance, First Party & Coverage (IFPAC)
• Products Liability
• Professional Liability

• Appellate
• Class Actions & Mass Torts
• Construction Law
• Long Term Care
• Toxic Torts