One of the perks from all Leasure’ s hard work was the people she met along the way. Leasure says she enjoyed law school, and the friendships she made there are the kind that last throughout the years. In fact, those friendships have lasted throughout her career.
The late Jim Bailes, founding partner at Bailes, Craig & Sellards, PLLC, heads that list of significant friendships and mentors.
“ Jim had incredibly high expectations, and he pushed me to meet them. He challenged me to think critically, sharpen my judgment and approach problems from every angle. He mentored me every single day,” she says.“ Over time, his mentorship helped shape me into someone trusted to handle complex and high stakes matters.”
Leasure also works to help other lawyers and health care professionals sharpen their skills.
“ I have had the privilege of mentoring not only young lawyers but also supporting staff throughout my career,” she says.“ Watching someone grow in confidence, develop new skills and ultimately become successful in their role is incredibly rewarding. Early in my career, I benefited from people who were willing to teach and support me, so I value the opportunity to do the same for others.”
Leasure chose to make her professional impact right in her Huntington hometown. Today, she and her husband, Jason, a member at the law firm of Leasure Oliver, PLLC, live not far from her childhood home. Their 13-year-old daughter, Maisie Scout, is already showing interest in one day joining her father at his law firm. This family of current and future lawyers is proud of its community and state.
“ I live and work in West Virginia because it is a wonderful place to raise a family,” Leasure says.“ I appreciate the balance of professional opportunity, community connection and quality of life that West Virginia offers. I enjoy the familiarity of the community of Huntington and being close to family.”
She says anyone raised in Huntington naturally bleeds green, and all residents, regardless of their alumni status, feel the sense of pride and community involvement Marshall University brings to the area.
However, this hard-working and successful Mountain State lawyer has her sights set on some fun outside the West Virginia hills as well.
“ I have yet to accomplish this, but I am working toward visiting all the Disney parks around the world,” she says. •
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