Member
Labor & Employment
J.D. West Virginia University
B.A. West Virginia University
Office:
Charleston, WV
(304) 353-8146
Biography
When Jan Fox attended West Virginia Girl’s State (it doesn’t matter what year), she heard a presentation from a labor and employment lawyer and from that day forward, her career path was set. Jan was attracted to the profession because it focused on people and it seemed that every day and every situation would be unique. Fast forward almost 30 years, and her attraction to the practice of labor and employment law is still very much alive, and yes, every day and every situation is in fact unique. Jan’s practice has evolved from a very intense courtroom practice to include more work as a daily trusted advisor for her clients. Clients, mostly in-house human resources professionals, call Jan when they are baffled, when they need a shoulder to cry on, and when they are frustrated. Jan’s calming nature paired with her legal knowledge is an effective and valuable combination for her clients. Jan has represented and counseled clients in almost every aspect of employment law, including reasonable accommodations, FMLA, FLSA, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and discrimination.
Jan has an excellent track record of success in administrative hearings in circuit courts, the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, federal district courts, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. When matters escalate beyond counseling and litigation occurs, Jan taps into her emotional intelligence and empathy, viewing the situation through the eyes of the jury, witnesses, and the plaintiff, all with a goal of building a winning defense.
Memberships & Awards
Professional
Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business – Labor & Employment (2021 – Present)The Best Lawyers in America®, Education Law (2011-Present), Employment Law - Management (2012-Present), Labor Law - Management (2011-Present), Litigation - Labor & Employment (2011-Present)American Bar AssociationNational School Board Association Council of School AttorneysEmployment Section, West Virginia State BarKanawha County Bar AssociationDistinguished West Virginian, 1993Moot Court BoardOrder of the BarristersGraduated magna cum laude, West Virginia University
Key Experience
Prevailed on summary judgment on behalf of a public agency in a matter involving pay discrimination
Counseled employers on personnel matters and drafted employee handbooks and employment policies
Defended healthcare facility in allegations of unlawful termination and violation of the patient safety act
Work Experience
1992 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
1985-1992 Deputy Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General of West Virginia
1985-1992 Deputy Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General of West Virginia