William J. O'Brien

Member

Biography

Jamie O’Brien considers his work as counsel to be a support for his clients’ business. For clients, this means that Jamie helps them in addressing their immediate needs, while remaining aware of how actions now can affect their overall goals and minimize future challenges.

The experience Jamie gained appearing in state and federal courtrooms across West Virginia, working as a federal law clerk, and in a community legal practice clinic has equipped him with skills to successfully navigate his clients through complex litigation. Jamie’s energy litigation practice is comprised of cases involving condemnation, surface damage complaints, and right-of-way issues. His business litigation practice consists of defending against product liability claims, representing shareholders and members in disputes arising within closely-held companies, and defending companies in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, he represents individuals in litigation arising from estate and trust disputes.

Representative Experience

Obtained access and prosecuted condemnation actions for construction of natural gas pipelines
Defended claims against oil and gas operators for breach of fiduciary duties
Represented clients in estate and trust administration disputes, including to trial verdict and litigation of fiduciary duties
Prosecuted right-of-way access matters, including obtaining injunctive relief
Sought summary judgment for oil and gas service provider on claims of negligent operations
Represented shareholders and members of closely-held business corporations in company operation disputes
Defended surface damage claims related to construction of oil and gas wells
Assisted in defense of patent infringement actions against pharmaceutical and industrial companies
Defended criminal charges for white collar defendants and court-appointed representation
Defended in jury trial against federal mine safety criminal charges related to coal mine investigation

Licensed In

West Virginia

Education

J.D. Washington and Lee University School of Law

M.Div. Yale University
B.A. Ohio Wesleyan University

Memberships

First Vice President, Buckhannon-Upshur Chamber of Commerce
Harrison County Chamber of Commerce
Rules Committee, West Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
Board Member, United Methodist Foundation of West Virginia
Finance Committee, First United Methodist Church, Buckhannon, WV
Treasurer, Buckhannon Choral Society
Buckhannon Lions Club
American Bar Association

Achievements

The Best Lawyers in America®, Commercial Litigation (2025)

Speaking Engagements

“Condemnation & Eminent Domain in the Appalachians: Updates from West Virginia, Pennsylvania, & Ohio,” Southern Gas Association Operating Conference, Houston, TX (July 26, 2016)

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