Ellen Maxwell-Hoffman

Ellen Maxwell-Hoffman is a partner at Bowles Rice LLP, where she focuses her practice on corporate and commercial law, including mergers, finance, and compliance. She provides guidance on ethical practices, governance structures, and economic development strategies. Her clients benefit from decades of legal insight in both public and private sector matters.

Ellen earned her Juris Doctor from the West Virginia University College of Law in 1985, following a Master of Science in 1978 and a Bachelor of Science in 1976 from the same institution. Her strong academic foundation supports her wide-ranging legal capabilities and commitment to legal excellence.

Ellen is a recognized leader in legal ethics and compliance, offering counsel on federal and state election law and the West Virginia Governmental Ethics Act. Her deep understanding of the professional rules of conduct governing attorneys further distinguishes her as a trusted advisor to businesses and legal professionals alike.

Ellen’s contributions to the firm include past leadership roles as chair of the Commercial and Business Services Group and service on the Bowles Rice Executive Committee. She played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s approach to financial and commercial law matters and mentoring future legal professionals.

Ellen Maxwell-Hoffman has received consistent recognition for her work. She has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America since 2010 for Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law and is ranked by Chambers USA for Corporate/Commercial Law. In 2023, she received the prestigious Lawyers and Leaders Award from West Virginia Executive and WVU College of Law.

Licensed to practice before the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia and multiple federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, Ellen has made a lasting impact through her legal service. She continues to serve as a respected voice in corporate law and ethics, committed to advancing principled business practices.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Bowles Rice LLP
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Fourth Circuit Judicial Conference
• Member, West Virginia State Bar (District Grievance Committee)
• Member, St. Thomas More Catholic Lawyers Society
• Member, Judge John A. Field, Jr. American Inn of Court

Licensed State

• West Virginia

Education

• West Virginia University College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• West Virginia University
  Masters of Science (MS)
• West Virginia University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges