Matthew R. Whitler

Mr. Whitler’s practice is focused on the defense of individuals, companies, and governmental entities in a wide range of civil litigation matters, including automobile accidents, civil rights cases, premises liability claims, product liability cases, and toxic tort suits. Mr. Whitler also advises and represents insurance companies in coverage issues throughout West Virginia.

Mr. Whitler was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and grew up in Charleston. After receiving his undergraduate degree in International Studies from West Virginia University, he then obtained his law degree from WVU’s College of Law. Upon passing the West Virginia Bar, Mr. Whitler practiced a short time in Charleston practicing workers’ compensation law before moving to North Carolina in 1999. Also licensed in both North and South Carolina, Mr. Whitler handled cases in asbestos product liability and personal injury, and represented a national car rental company.

After returning to West Virginia in 2007, Mr. Whitler continued to build his civil defense practice, focusing on defending personal injury claims.

Case Experience:

Mr. Whitler’s prior cases involved handling the defense of numerous personal injury lawsuits in automotive accidents in primary, underinsured, and uninsured capacities. His practice also includes defending regional, national, and international companies from product liabilities claims, including manufacturers of lithium batteries, warehouse equipment, and respiratory ventilation machines. Mr. Whitler has also represented pharmacists, physicians, and nursing homes. In addition, his practice also includes defending companies and insurers in toxic tort matters such as water contamination and airborne particulate throughout West Virginia.

Mr. Whitler has successfully represented clients in numerous civil jury trials, including successful defense verdicts on allegations of an animal assault on a minor, alleged vehicular contact with a pedestrian, and he has served as lead counsel for many West Virginia state departments in civil litigation throughout the Eastern Panhandle. Finally, Mr. Whitler has also been successful in obtaining summary judgment and appellate rulings from numerous cities, counties, and state agencies.