Well, if uncertainty, conflict and tension are required for growth, as many pundits tell us, we will see unprecedented progress in 2009!!  Financial market volatility, election returns and changes in the energy markets made 2008 a year to remember, and 2009 has presented a great opportunity for our clients who have prepared for expansion and growth.

Our Winter Edition of Vantage Points reflects the growth in our legal practice.  Steve Golder, who heads our Business Services Section, has become a Title Insurance Agent and reviews the “whats and whys” of title insurance.  This market has changed significantly over the past ten (10) years in West Virginia, and you will want to make an informed choice.

Rachel Turner, an attorney in our Litigation Section has written an important summary on Veterinary Malpractice.  This growing area of the law is based on the remarkably close relationship so many of us have with our pets

Employment and workplace issues continue to grow for our clients and our practice, and we want you to know issues coming in 2009.  Matt Williams, one of our litigators, reviews the likelihood of employers needing to plan for nursing mothers in the workplace.  Unpaid break time, private space and refrigeration should be part of your human resources and physical plant planning.

Congratulations also are in order (and we like that!).  Andy Hess and Matt Williams have passed the bar exam and joined the West Virginia Bar, culminating many years of study.  Our best to them for a long and successful legal career.

Have a wonderful holiday season and prosperous 2009.