West Virginia State Bar

In the State of West Virginia, many people are injured because of the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of an individual or company. These people have the opportunity to file a personal injury lawsuit with the help of a lawyer in their state. Unfortunately, not all people that call themselves lawyers are reputable or able to properly launch a lawsuit. Membership in the West Virginia State Bar Association is the reassurance needed to insure that an individual is qualified to present a court case in front of West Virginian courts.
The West Virginia State Bar is the organization of all lawyers licensed to practice law in West Virginia and exists to serve members, the legal profession, and the public. The mission of the West Virginia State Bar is to improve the administration of justice and enhance the provision of legal services to citizens in West Virginia.
On May 1, 1947, the West Virginia State Bar came into existence as the integrated bar organization for West Virginia lawyers. The State Bar is a part of the Judicial Branch of West Virginia State Government, since it is an administrative agency of the Supreme Court of Appeals. However, the Bar does not receive any taxpayer funds, relying upon dues from its members and other private sources of income. Every lawyer in West Virginia must be a member of the State Bar.
Admission into the West Virginia Bar is stringent. Every potential lawyer must complete a series of rigorous tests to prove that they are competent to practice law in the state of West Virginia. This admissions process includes a passing score on the state bar exam, completing a minimum requirement of legal education (usually seven years beyond high school), and proving that an applicant has the professional aptitude to practice law. The process ensures that professionals that are admitted into the bar are reputable and competent in order to best serve the citizens of West Virginia.