His leadership in the legal community includes serving as executive editor of The Defender, the publication of the Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia( DTCWV), as well as being an active member of the organization. He is also a fellow of the West Virginia Bar Foundation and a member of the DTCWV, West Virginia State Bar and Defense Research Institute.
Bailey’ s peers have recognized his dedication and impact. He holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, has been named a Super Lawyer in general litigation and was recently honored as a diplomat by the DTCWV for his work on its publication.
Community service, Bailey says, is not optional for those in the legal profession.
“ When you become a lawyer, community service and dedication to your community is a must in order to be successful,” he says.“ Why would you become a professional and not use your talent for the betterment of your community and profession?”
He follows this principle by providing pro bono assistance to individuals and organizations in need, co-chairing his law school class’ scholarship fund and supporting numerous charitable causes alongside his firm.
Bailey is also a champion of diversity and inclusion, both within his firm and the broader legal field. He believes strongly that embracing varied perspectives strengthens the profession.
“ We are connected to the world through technology, and our leaders now and in the future need to understand how others think and react,” he says.
After more than 40 years in practice, Bailey says he stays inspired by bringing positive results to clients, interacting with attorneys around the state, meeting people who have unique skill sets he can learn from and keeping the firm going despite tremendous challenges.
Bailey is quick to credit those who mentored him along the way, particularly Shuman, who gave him early opportunities to take the lead in trials. Others, from claims directors to clients, have supported his development as well. Now, Bailey pays it forward, mentoring the next generation of lawyers and encouraging them to get involved in professional and civic organizations.
Despite the demands of his career, Bailey makes time for the things he loves most: family, fishing, golf, pickleball and boating at Flat Top Lake. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he treasures time spent with loved ones above all. Reflecting on his career, Bailey counts the firm’ s longevity and success as one of his greatest achievements.
“ Competition for clients is fierce, the demands of the profession grow each year, expectations of clients and
new lawyers are high and the cost of running a law firm is ever-increasing,” he says.“ Despite the challenges, the firm has navigated the choppy waters and is thriving.”
Bailey remains as committed to West Virginia as he was when he first chose to live and work here.
“ Despite the many challenges the state faces, it is a wonderful place to live and work,” he says.“ Almost Heaven is a fitting slogan for our state.”
Looking ahead, Bailey continues to explore ways to expand the firm’ s transactional and commercial litigation practices while finding new opportunities to serve the legal profession and his community. His curiosity, dedication to service and passion for the law ensure his impact on West Virginia’ s legal landscape will be felt for years to come. •
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