Press Release

Charleston, W.Va. — Spilman Thomas & Battle (Spilman) announced that A. Garner Marks, current General Counsel to the West Virginia Department of Commerce, will join the law firm as a partner next month.

Marks possesses significant public sector experience and a strong record of advancing major economic development initiatives across West Virginia. At Spilman, he will focus on economic development, government relations, banking law, real estate and property law, and general corporate matters, further strengthening the firm’s capabilities in these key areas.

“I’m honored to join Spilman and contribute to a team that has long been at the forefront of business and economic growth in West Virginia,” Marks said. “My work in state government has shown me how transformative the right partnership can be, and I’m excited to help clients pursue opportunities, navigate challenges, and move their businesses forward.”

During his tenure at the Department of Commerce, Marks has played an important role in recruiting new businesses to West Virginia. He has collaborated with multinational corporations, local governments, and regional economic development organizations to bring new investments to fruition. He also serves on the West Virginia Tourism Advisory Board and the West Virginia Home Rule Board.

Before joining the Department of Commerce, Marks served as Deputy General Counsel and Senior Counsel for Legislation and Policy in the Office of Governor Jim Justice. His background also includes experience in private practice with law firms in West Virginia and Florida.

“Garner’s depth of experience will be an invaluable asset to our clients,” said Michael J. Basile, Spilman’s Managing Member. “He understands how business decisions are made at every level, and that insight strengthens our ability to deliver strategic, practical solutions.”

Basile continued, “With Garner joining our economic development team, we reinforce our long-standing commitment to supporting growth and prosperity across West Virginia. His skillset enhances our ability to guide clients through a complex regulatory and business landscape.”

A native West Virginian, Marks earned both his undergraduate degree and law degree from West Virginia University. He officially joins the Spilman team on May 15, 2026.

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.