Of Counsel
Litigation
J.D. Ohio State University
B.S. Muskingum University
Office:
Wheeling, WV
(304) 231-0460
Biography
Melanie Norris is highly respected for her ability to defend and protect the interests of her clients. Her practice is a unique blend of direct representation of insurance companies and defense of oil and gas producers facing litigation. Melanie’s skills as a litigator are enhanced by her researching, writing, and public speaking abilities. Clients appreciate her insight and candor in advising them of their risks while helping them achieve their goals.
Melanie is the co-leader of the firm’s Insurance Coverage Team. She is often called upon to assist in insurance coverage opinions and bad faith litigation, as well as insurance arson and fraud investigations. She also practices in the areas of general personal injury and commercial litigation defense.
A lifelong resident of Belmont County, Ohio, Melanie is very familiar with the Utica Shale and is an integral part of the firm’s energy litigation team. Her work for large oil and gas producers includes landowner lease and mineral title litigation, as well as resolving access and right-of-way disputes.
Memberships & Awards
Professional
Best Lawyers® 2020 Morgantown, WV Litigation - Insurance, Lawyer of the YearThe Best Lawyers in America®, Litigation - Insurance (2018-Present), Litigation - Land Use and Zoning (2022-Present)Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia Defense Research InstituteOhio County Bar AssociationOhio State Bar AssociationInns of Court
Key Experience
Has issued coverage opinions and litigated coverage issues on a variety of commercial property and liability claims, including claims for business interruption coverage
Rendered coverage opinion for insurance company regarding insured physician, pharmacy, and healthcare clinic defending patient’s lawsuit over prescription drugs
Sought preliminary and permanent injunctions on behalf of major energy company to prevent interference with rights-of-way and major gas transmissions lines
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