Jim Russell focuses his practice in the areas of natural resources (coal, oil and gas), commercial transactions and commercial litigation. Additionally, Mr. Russell has acted as counsel for various syndications involving the development of real estate. He serves as Chair of the firm’s Business Department.

AREAS OF CONCENTRATION

Natural Resources
Mr. Russell has represented coal, oil and gas companies in:

• Acquisitions and dispositions of assets
• Preparation of mineral title opinion reports
• Litigation of title and mining rights issues
• Debt and equity financings
• Compliance with federal and state mining laws
• Defense of claims by investors

Commercial Transactions
Mr. Russell has represented sellers and buyers of business assets, as well as lenders and borrowers in commercial loan transactions. He has:

• Handled acquisitions and dispositions of coal companies, oil and gas properties, nursing homes, newspapers and shopping centers
• Formed syndicated entities to facilitate the development of various projects ranging from hotels and motels and restaurants to oil and gas drilling programs and represented lenders in negotiating, documenting and securing commercial loans and credit facilities
• Assisted clients in compliance with federal and state securities laws affecting small business capitalization

Commercial Litigation
Mr. Russell has handled more than forty jury and non-jury trials involving commercial and regulatory issues. He has handled cases involving:

• Breach of contract claims
• Securities law claims
• Fraud and deceit claims
• Ownership of real estate and minerals
• Local government budget-making procedures
• Zoning and land use

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

1977     Steptoe & Johnson

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• Energy and Mineral Law Foundation

INDUSTRY / CIVIC MEMBERSHIPS

• Morgantown Chamber of Commerce
• Vision 20/20 Riverfront Development Committee

AWARDS / HONORS

• Chambers USA America’s Leading Lawyers for Business 
• The Best Lawyers in America®
• Bronze Star
• Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry

PUBLICATIONS / SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

• Mr. Russell is the author of three published articles and has made presentations on various commercial and mining law topics at CLE seminars in West Virginia, Ohio and Florida.