Fairmont State University Appoints Tanner James as General Counsel
Fairmont State University has named Tanner James, J.D., as its new general counsel, bolstering the university’s leadership team. In this essential role, James will deliver strategic legal advice in support of Fairmont State’s mission and operations.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tanner James to Fairmont State University as our new general counsel,” said President Mike Davis. “Tanner’s legal expertise and community ties make him the ideal attorney to support and strengthen our university. His leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow and become an even greater place to learn, work, and call home.”
James, a Fairmont resident, brings a wealth of legal experience to his new role. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional versatility, serving clients ranging from individuals to municipalities to national nonprofits. He has also founded and managed his own practice, James Legal PLLC.
Born and raised in Kentucky, James attended Marshall University as a presidential scholar, receiving a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, in 2007. While there, he met his future wife and Fairmont native, Michelle Arcure James. In 2008, James returned home as a Provost Fellow at the University of Kentucky College of Law, where he earned a Juris Doctor. After completing his degree, the couple returned to Huntington to build their careers.
Following the birth of their daughter, the couple chose to relocate to Marion County, where Michelle’s roots run four generations deep. It’s been nearly four years since James and family moved to Fairmont. His law practice has thrived in the Friendly City, where he has also served as secretary of the Marion County Bar Association.
In addition to founding his own practice, James has held leadership roles with several West Virginia law firms. He has specialized in business and intellectual property law, including contract negotiation, trademark portfolio management, copyright disputes, and regulatory fulfillment. James has also served as fractional general counsel for several businesses, equipping him with a strong foundation to navigate complex legal matters in a collaborative setting.
"Representing members of the Fairmont community has been a highlight of my career,” James said. “Joining Fairmont State as General Counsel and helping bring the university's new vision to fruition is an opportunity I relish.”
James will start his new duties at Fairmont State on January 13, 2025.
