Justin K. Chandler is a native of Raleigh County, West Virginia, and he is a graduate of  the West Virginia University College of Law where he graduated in only five semesters.

A proud native of West Virginia’s southern coalfields, Justin comes from a multigenerational family of coal miners. Prior to attending law school, he worked as an underground coal miner for one of the region’s largest metallurgical coal producers. He is a certified underground coal miner in West Virginia, Virginia, and Kentucky.

Justin focuses his practice on civil and administrative litigation. He routinely defends coal and other mining companies in wide ranging civil litigation matters in both state and federal courts. Additionally, he represents mining companies in administrative proceedings before the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission (FMSHRC) and the West Virginia Board of Appeals where he defends citations, civil penalties, discrimination, and other claims arising under the Mine Safety and Health Act. He also responds to accidents and represents clients in connection with special investigations conducted by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and West Virginia Office of Miners Health, Safety & Training (WVOMHST).

In addition to his work for mining companies, Justin also has experience representing individuals in personal injury, employment, contract, and other legal disputes. He has successfully tried civil cases to jury verdict and argued appeals before both federal Circuit Courts of Appeal and West Virginia appellate courts.

Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending time with his family and being involved in his kids’ youth sports activities. He is also an avid golfer, turkey hunter, and NASCAR fan.

Education:

• West Virginia University, B.S. (2012)
• University of Charleston, M.B.A. (2015)
• West Virginia University College of Law, J.D. (2018)

Professional Experience:

• Hardy Pence PLLC (2018-2021)
• Steptoe & Johnson PLLC (2022-2025)
• Pence Law Firm PLLC (2025-present)

Court Admissions:

• Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia
• United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia
• United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia
• United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
• United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit