Max knows the value of resolving problems amicably and efficiently.  But when intractable issues cannot be resolved, Max vigorously advocates on behalf of his clients, inside and outside the courtroom.  Having an intimate knowledge of state and federal litigation, Max understands the important subtleties of complex legal problems and employs that insight to achieve his clients’ goals.

Max has been recognized for his ability to successfully advocate for his clients in multiple practice areas and various sectors.  He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Superlawyers®.  And, as of 2023, based on his successful trial experience, Max became the author of the Trial Handbook for West Virginia Lawyers, published by Thomson Reuters.  In addition to the recognitions for his litigation prowess, Max leads HFDR’s transactional practice.

Born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia, Max attended Georgetown University, where he earned a degree in Government.  Before returning to his hometown, Max graduated, Order of the Coif and summa cum laude, from Washington and Lee School of Law.  During law school, Max was a member of the Advanced Administrative Litigation Clinic where he represented Appalachian coal miners in their claims for black lung benefits.  Max also participated with distinction in various moot court activities and was awarded Best Oral Advocate at the National Energy and Sustainability Moot Court Competition.

Prior to joining the firm, Max served as a law clerk for the Hon. Robert B. King of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit and for the Hon. Robert Chambers of the U.S. District Court for Southern District of West Virginia.  Before attending law school, Max worked for various elected officials on the state and federal levels, including West Virginia’s senior United States Senator.

 

Representative Matters

Litigation Matters

• Tried first-of-its-kind case to a jury against qui tam relators on behalf of a healthcare system falsely accused of Stark Law and Anti-Kickback Statute violations

• Represented at trial a falsely arrested former school board member, resulting in successful jury verdict in § 1983 civil rights trial against violating police officer

• Handled precedent-setting litigation against DEA, obtaining the reinstatement of a West Virginia Pharmacy’s DEA Registration and dissolution of DEA Suspension Order.

Transactional Matters

• Spearheaded purchase of hospital assets resulting from a § 363 bankruptcy sale, enabling the continued availability of rural hospital services

• Lead transactional counsel in multiple energy-sector acquisitions, including acquisition of production capabilities, shipping facilities, and mineral interests

• Represented parties in transactions across various sectors, including sale of medical practice, on-going licensed business concerns, and commercial real estate

Admissions

• West Virginia

• U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

• U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia

 

Professional Background

• Law Clerk, Hon. Robert B. King, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

• Law Clerk, Hon. Robert C. Chambers, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia

 

Memberships and Affiliations

• Congregation B’nai Jacob, Board of Trustees

• Mountaineer Montessori School, Board of Directors

• 10 in 10, Inc., Board of Directors

• The Friends of West Virginia Public Broadcasting, Inc., Board of Directors