2024
Bill Wooton
Justice , Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia
Photo by Tim Tilley Photography .
PAGETT DUSIC
IN A WORLD where the law often seems distant and impersonal , Bill Wooton , justice of the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia , stands out as a beacon of integrity and community commitment .
Wooton ’ s journey from a small-town upbringing to the highest ranks of the judiciary is a testament to his unwavering dedication to justice , strong work ethic and profound love for his home state .
“ I learned early on that in a competitive situation I could usually prevail if I outworked the other competitors ,” Wooton says . “ That lesson has held true in athletics , academics , politics and the practice of law .”
Wooton ’ s journey began in Beckley , WV . The oldest of seven children , whose father was in sales and mother worked at the veterans hospital , Wooton came from a close-knit family . There , he developed a deep connection to his community . His
mother instilled in him the importance of education and going to college as well as the equal importance of being kind and helping others .
“ Mom was the embodiment of love ; none of us were her equal , but all of us attempted to emulate her ,” says Wooton . “ She was always kind and generous to everyone and never missed an opportunity to be helpful to someone .”
He attended undergraduate school at Marshall University , where he became involved in student government . This fostered his desire to become involved in politics . Knowing that many elected officials were lawyers by trade , he broached the idea of going to law school with his dad .
“ He was very discouraging ,” Wooton says . “ I still remember him telling me there were more starving lawyers in Beckley than any other group of people .”
While his father ’ s opposition gave him pause , after graduating from Marshall , Wooton decided to pursue his law degree so he could make a difference . While law school had its challenges , such as juggling time demands between school , active duty with the Army and a new marriage , law school was one of the best times of his life .
His first foray into the legal field involved working as a law clerk for Judge John Field , Jr ., a judge for the Southern District of West Virginia . This role was pivotal , offering Wooton not only an introduction to the intricacies of the judicial system but mentorship from Field , who exemplified the qualities of brilliance , preparation and humility .
“ Perhaps more importantly , he was always thoughtful , gracious , kind and polite and enjoyed a good laugh — even at his own expense ,” says Wooton . “ His work was important and serious , but he never took himself too seriously .”
While serving as a law clerk , Wooton gained valuable insights and guidance from three of Field ’ s former clerks who constituted the U . S . Attorney ’ s Office , Warren Upton , U . S . Circuit Judge Robert B . King and Wayne Rich .
Wooton ’ s career is marked by a series of significant roles , each contributing to his growth as a legal professional and public servant . After his clerkship , he joined the West Virginia Attorney General ’ s Office , representing several key state agencies . This role was instrumental in building his confidence and expertise in handling significant litigation with minimal oversight .
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE