Member
Business
J.D. The Ohio State University
M.B.A. Ohio University
B.B.A. Ohio University
Office:
Charleston, WV
(304) 353-8127
Biography
Growing up, Sarah Ellis would accompany her dad, who was a real estate developer and contractor, to his office almost daily. Sarah watched his excitement as he put together deals and made plans for new development. Those moments with her dad shaped Sarah’s career path, and she followed in his footsteps, in her own unique way. In a commercial development or transaction, Sarah can be found in a variety of roles, including the architect of the deal, lender’s counsel, title insurance agent, and borrower’s counsel. From government buildings, energy facilities, and manufacturing facilities to gas stations and hotels, there aren’t many project types that Sarah has not participated in. Beyond commercial developments, Sarah works closely with banking clients on collateral, bankruptcy, and collection issues.
The passion that Sarah’s dad had for his career was passed to Sarah and she has been known to point out a new building to her children and excitedly say “I helped with that!” That dedication and excitement is also evident to Sarah’s clients and they know that she is personally invested in their success.
Memberships & Awards
Professional
The Best Lawyers in America®2016 Super Lawyers® West Virginia Rising StarNancy H. Rogers Prize in Dispute Resolution, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law 2006College of Business Outstanding Graduate in Management, Ohio University 2001Graduated summa cum laude, Ohio UniversityMasthead Editor, I/S: A Journal of Law and Policy for the Information Society
Key Experience
Lender’s counsel in transaction for the purchase of long-term care facility, as an interim measure to secure HUD financing
Borrower’s counsel for a long-term care provider in obtaining HUD loan for the term financing of additional facilities
Frequently acts as lender’s counsel for financing of GSA leased facilities
Know-How
Work Experience
2006 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
2002-2003 Voinovich Center for Leadership and Public Affairs, Appalachian Regional Entrepreneurship Initiative
2002-2003 Voinovich Center for Leadership and Public Affairs, Appalachian Regional Entrepreneurship Initiative
Speaking Engagements
Co-author "Avoiding CCPA Debt Collection Traps – A Periodic Reminder," WV Bankers Magazine, Winter 2020