Charleston, W.Va. — Spilman Thomas & Battle (Spilman) announced that William S. Thompson, the immediate past United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia, has joined the law firm as Counsel.

Thompson brings decades of experience across the legal, judicial, and business arenas. At Spilman, his practice will focus on litigation, with particular emphasis on alternative dispute resolution and white collar criminal defense. In addition to his legal work, Thompson serves as Dean of Students and a visiting professor at the Appalachian School of Law, where he helps prepare the next generation of legal professionals.

“Spilman has long been recognized for excellence, integrity, and deep commitment to client success,” Thompson said. “I’m proud to join a firm with such a strong legacy. I look forward to contributing my experience to help clients solve complex problems and achieve their goals.”

Thompson previously served as Circuit Court Judge for West Virginia’s 25th Judicial Circuit, where he presided over both civil and criminal matters. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles in the private sector, including as President of Madison Healthcare and Vice President of Danville Lumber.

“Will’s diverse experience—as a federal prosecutor, circuit judge, and business executive—gives him a rare, 360-degree view of the legal system. That insight will be invaluable to our clients as they navigate complex and high-risk challenges,” said Michael J. Basile, Spilman’s Managing Member. “He is an exceptional addition to our litigation and white collar defense services.”

A respected voice in West Virginia’s legal community, Thompson has been recognized for both his professional excellence and his commitment to public service. In 2023, then-Governor Jim Justice honored him with the Civil Rights Award for his advocacy efforts. He is a Fellow of the West Virginia Bar Foundation—a distinction reserved for those demonstrating the highest standards of service to the legal profession and their communities. Thompson also received the West Virginia Public Defender Services Award for Outstanding Scholarship in Criminal Law and the Addiction Policy Forum Award in 2019.

“Will is widely respected not just for his legal acumen, but for his unwavering integrity, tireless work ethic, and dedication to public service,” Basile added. “These qualities embody the values we hold dearly at Spilman, and we’re honored to welcome him to our team.”

About Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC
Spilman Thomas & Battle is a full-service, super-regional law firm serving local, regional, national, and international businesses. Founded in 1864, Spilman has offices in Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Wheeling, West Virginia; Roanoke, Virginia; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Jacksonville, Florida.