Charles M. Johnstone II

Charles M. Johnstone II has built a respected career as a trial lawyer with extensive experience in personal injury, business, and construction matters. Since beginning practice in 1988, he has successfully resolved cases involving automobile, trucking, logging, and mining accidents, as well as medical malpractice and industrial incidents, securing substantial results for injured clients.

Charles first earned his B.A./B.E. from the University of Kentucky College of Business and Economics in 1985 before completing his J.D. at the University of Kentucky College of Law that same year. His broad bar admissions include West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio, along with multiple U.S. District Courts and the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Fourth and Sixth Circuits, allowing him to represent clients across jurisdictions.

Charles has recovered more than $100 million in settlements and achieved trial verdicts exceeding $75 million. His practice extends to legal malpractice claims, where he has obtained significant compensation for clients whose prior attorneys failed to handle their cases properly. In addition to trial work, he provides skilled guidance in construction and business disputes, assisting both individuals and companies with complex transactions and litigation.

Charles has been honored with memberships in the Million-Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million-Dollar Advocates Forum, reflecting his proven record of high-value results. He has also earned Lead Counsel Rated recognition for his professional standing and commitment to client advocacy. His involvement in professional associations includes state bar memberships in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio, as well as active participation in justice-oriented and construction-related organizations.

Charles M. Johnstone II continues to dedicate his legal practice to helping individuals and businesses achieve fair resolutions. Known for his strong courtroom presence and thoughtful representation, he remains committed to protecting the rights of those injured or facing complex disputes while ensuring every client receives determined and effective advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Managing Partner, Johnstone & Gabhart, LLP
• Member, The West Virginia Bar Association
• Member, Kentucky Bar Association
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, Contractors Association of West Virginia
• Member, Associated Builders and Contractors
• Member, West Virginia Utility Contractors Association
• Member, Contractors’ Labor Council, Inc.
• Member, Ohio Valley Construction Employers Council, Inc.
• Member, Asphalt Pavement Council of West Virginia

Licensed State

• West Virginia
• Kentucky
• Ohio

Education

• University of Kentucky College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Kentucky College of Business and Economics
  BA/BE

Awards & Badges