Energy
Business
Employment
Litigation
Biography
Melanie Norris concentrates her practice in the areas of insurance law and energy litigation. Ms. Norris' insurance practice consists of direct representation of insurance companies in response to extra-contractual claims, insurance arson and fraud investigation, insurance coverage opinions and disputes, and general personal injury and commercial litigation defense. Ms. Norris' energy litigation practice includes landowner lease and mineral title litigation, as well as right-of-way disputes. She is co-leader of the firm's Insurance Company Team.
Know-How
Work Experience
2000 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
Speaking Engagements
Co-author of “What Legal Tools and Defenses are Available to Insurers?” For the Defense, a publication of the Defense Research Institute, Fall 2015 Article, “Privacy Claims Under CGL Policies” Steptoe & Johnson Insurance Law Update (Winter 2014)Co-author, "Coverage Trigger Issues: What is the X Factor?" For The Defense, a publication of the Defense Research Institute, May 2014White Paper, co-author of “Evolving Theories of Lease Termination Litigation,” EMLF, May 2014
Key Experience
Prepared numerous coverage opinions and represented insurers in declaratory judgment actions involving claims arising under various types of insurance policies
Conducted investigations and examinations under oath and defended insurers in claims involving suspected arson or fraud
Defended and mediated claims of statutory bad faith and breach of contract
Memberships & Awards
Professional
Best Lawyers® 2020 Morgantown, WV Litigation - Insurance, Lawyer of the YearThe Best Lawyers in America®Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia Defense Research InstituteOhio County Bar AssociationOhio State Bar AssociationInns of Court