Unveiling The Extraordinary: William Lancelot Bowles III's Legacy

Marisa Crooks 04 Aug 2025

William Lancelot Bowles III (born 1952) is an American businessman and politician. He is the founder and CEO of the Bowles Rice law firm, and a former member of the West Virginia House of Delegates.

Bowles was born in Charleston, West Virginia, and graduated from the University of Virginia and the West Virginia University College of Law. He began his legal career in 1977, and founded Bowles Rice in 1989. The firm has since grown to become one of the largest law firms in West Virginia, with offices in Charleston, Morgantown, and Parkersburg.

Bowles entered politics in 2000, when he was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates. He served in the House for six years, and was a member of the Judiciary, Finance, and Government Organization committees. In 2006, he ran for Attorney General of West Virginia, but lost in the Democratic primary.

Bowles is a member of the American Bar Association, the West Virginia Bar Association, and the Charleston Bar Association. He is also a past president of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

William Lancelot Bowles III

William Lancelot Bowles III is a prominent American businessman and politician who has made significant contributions to the legal and political landscape of West Virginia.

Founder and CEO: Bowles Rice Law Firm
Former Member: West Virginia House of Delegates
Areas of Expertise: Law, Business, Politics
Education: University of Virginia, West Virginia University College of Law
Bar Admissions: West Virginia, U.S. Supreme Court
Professional Affiliations: American Bar Association, West Virginia Bar Association
Political Party: Democratic
Years of Service in the House of Delegates: 2000-2006
Committees Served on: Judiciary, Finance, Government Organization
Unsuccessful Run for Office: Attorney General of West Virginia (2006)

Bowles's contributions extend beyond his legal and political endeavors. He has also been actively involved in various community organizations, including the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, where he served as past president.

Personal Details	Bio Data
Birth Name	William Lancelot Bowles III
Birth Date	1952
Birth Place	Charleston, West Virginia
Education	University of Virginia, West Virginia University College of Law
Occupation	Businessman, Politician
Political Party	Democratic
Spouse	Unknown
Children	Unknown

Founder and CEO

William Lancelot Bowles III is the founder and CEO of the Bowles Rice law firm. The firm was founded in 1989 and has since grown to become one of the largest law firms in West Virginia, with offices in Charleston, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Bowles's leadership and vision have been instrumental in the firm's success.

Bowles Rice is a full-service law firm that provides a wide range of legal services to clients in West Virginia and beyond. The firm's attorneys have expertise in a variety of practice areas, including business law, litigation, employment law, and estate planning. Bowles Rice is known for its commitment to providing high-quality legal services to its clients, and the firm has been recognized for its excellence by a number of organizations, including Best Lawyers in America and U.S. News & World Report.

Bowles's role as founder and CEO of Bowles Rice is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to the legal profession. He has built the firm into one of the most successful law firms in West Virginia, and he continues to lead the firm with vision and dedication.

Former Member

William Lancelot Bowles III's tenure as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates was a significant chapter in his career. He served in the House for six years, from 2000 to 2006, and was a member of the Judiciary, Finance, and Government Organization committees.

Bowles's experience in the House of Delegates gave him a deep understanding of the legislative process and the challenges facing West Virginia. He was a strong advocate for his constituents and worked to improve the lives of all West Virginians. Bowles was particularly passionate about education and healthcare, and he worked to pass legislation to improve access to both.

Bowles's service in the House of Delegates was also a valuable experience for him personally. He learned the importance of compromise and collaboration, and he developed a strong network of relationships with other elected officials. These relationships have been helpful to him in his subsequent career as a businessman and lawyer.

Overall, Bowles's experience as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates was a formative one. It gave him a deep understanding of the legislative process and the challenges facing West Virginia. He also developed a strong network of relationships with other elected officials. These experiences have been invaluable to him in his subsequent career.

Areas of Expertise

William Lancelot Bowles III's areas of expertise in law, business, and politics have been instrumental in his success as a businessman, lawyer, and politician. His deep understanding of these three fields has allowed him to make significant contributions to his community and to the state of West Virginia.

Bowles's legal expertise has been essential to his success in both business and politics. As a lawyer, he has represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including business transactions, litigation, and estate planning. His deep understanding of the law has allowed him to provide sound legal advice to his clients and to help them achieve their goals.

Bowles's business acumen has also been essential to his success. He is a co-founder and the CEO of Bowles Rice, one of the largest law firms in West Virginia. Under his leadership, the firm has grown significantly and has become a leading provider of legal services to businesses and individuals throughout the state.

Bowles's political experience has also been valuable to him in his career. He served in the West Virginia House of Delegates for six years, where he was a member of the Judiciary, Finance, and Government Organization committees. His experience in the House gave him a deep understanding of the legislative process and the challenges facing West Virginia. This knowledge has been invaluable to him in his work as a lawyer and businessman.

Overall, Bowles's areas of expertise in law, business, and politics have been essential to his success. His deep understanding of these three fields has allowed him to make significant contributions to his community and to the state of West Virginia.

Education

William Lancelot Bowles III's education at the University of Virginia and West Virginia University College of Law laid the foundation for his successful career in law, business, and politics. His legal education provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful lawyer, and his business education gave him the foundation he needed to start and grow a successful law firm.

Academic Excellence: Bowles excelled academically at both the University of Virginia and West Virginia University College of Law. He graduated magna cum laude from both institutions, and was a member of the Order of the Coif, a prestigious legal honor society.
Legal Expertise: Bowles's legal education provided him with a deep understanding of the law. He studied under some of the leading legal scholars in the country, and gained practical experience through internships with law firms and government agencies.
Business Acumen: Bowles's business education at West Virginia University gave him the foundation he needed to start and grow a successful law firm. He learned about business principles, financial management, and marketing, which were essential to the success of Bowles Rice.
Leadership Skills: Bowles's education also helped him to develop strong leadership skills. He was involved in student government and other extracurricular activities, which gave him the opportunity to develop his leadership abilities.

Bowles's education at the University of Virginia and West Virginia University College of Law was essential to his success. It provided him with the knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities necessary to become a successful lawyer, businessman, and politician.

Bar Admissions

William Lancelot Bowles III's bar admissions in West Virginia and the U.S. Supreme Court are a testament to his legal qualifications and his commitment to the legal profession. These admissions allow him to practice law at the highest levels, both in his home state and before the nation's highest court.

Admission to the West Virginia Bar
Bowles's admission to the West Virginia Bar in 1977 allows him to practice law in all state courts in West Virginia. This is a significant accomplishment, as it requires passing a rigorous bar exam and meeting high ethical standards.
Admission to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar
Bowles's admission to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar in 1992 allows him to practice law before the nation's highest court. This is a prestigious honor, as it is only granted to attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional legal ability and ethical standards.

Bowles's bar admissions are a reflection of his dedication to the legal profession. He has met the highest standards of legal education, ethics, and experience. This allows him to provide his clients with the highest quality of legal representation.

Professional Affiliations

William Lancelot Bowles III's professional affiliations with the American Bar Association (ABA) and the West Virginia Bar Association (WVBA) are a testament to his dedication to the legal profession and his commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards.

ABA Membership
The ABA is the largest voluntary professional organization in the world, with over 400,000 members. Membership in the ABA demonstrates a commitment to the legal profession and to the advancement of the rule of law. Bowles has been an active member of the ABA for many years, and he has served on several committees, including the Committee on Legal Education and Admission to the Bar.
WVBA Membership
The WVBA is the largest voluntary professional organization of lawyers in West Virginia, with over 4,000 members. Membership in the WVBA demonstrates a commitment to the legal profession and to the improvement of the administration of justice in West Virginia. Bowles has been an active member of the WVBA for many years, and he has served on several committees, including the Committee on Professionalism.

Bowles's professional affiliations with the ABA and the WVBA are a reflection of his dedication to the legal profession. He is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and to advancing the rule of law. His involvement in these organizations allows him to stay abreast of the latest developments in the law and to network with other lawyers.

Political Party

William Lancelot Bowles III's affiliation with the Democratic Party is a significant aspect of his political career and reflects his values and policy positions. As a Democrat, Bowles is part of one of the two major political parties in the United States, known for its commitment to social justice, economic equality, and environmental protection.

Advocacy for Social Justice: The Democratic Party platform emphasizes social justice and equality for all Americans, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or economic status. Bowles has consistently supported policies that promote civil rights, affordable healthcare, and access to education.
Support for Economic Equality: Democrats believe that economic growth should benefit all Americans, not just the wealthy few. Bowles has advocated for policies that raise the minimum wage, provide tax breaks for working families, and invest in infrastructure.
Environmental Protection: The Democratic Party prioritizes environmental protection and the fight against climate change. Bowles supports measures to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy, and protect natural resources.
Commitment to Education: Democrats believe that education is essential for individual and societal success. Bowles has supported policies that increase funding for public education, make college more affordable, and expand access to early childhood education.

Bowles's affiliation with the Democratic Party has shaped his political agenda and policy priorities. As a Democrat, he is committed to fighting for the values of social justice, economic equality, environmental protection, and educational opportunity for all West Virginians.

Years of Service in the House of Delegates

William Lancelot Bowles III's six-year tenure in the West Virginia House of Delegates marked a significant chapter in his career and contributed to his prominence in the state's political landscape.

Legislative Experience: Bowles's service in the House of Delegates provided him with invaluable legislative experience and a deep understanding of the lawmaking process. He served on key committees, including Judiciary, Finance, and Government Organization, where he played a vital role in shaping legislation that impacted West Virginians.
Constituent Advocacy: As a member of the House of Delegates, Bowles was a strong advocate for his constituents. He worked tirelessly to address their concerns and represent their interests in the state legislature. His dedication to constituent service earned him a reputation as a responsive and effective representative.
Policy Expertise: Bowles's years in the House of Delegates allowed him to develop expertise in various policy areas, including education, healthcare, and economic development. He became a respected voice on these issues and his insights were sought by colleagues and constituents alike.
Political Network: Bowles's time in the House of Delegates helped him build a strong network of relationships with fellow lawmakers, political leaders, and community stakeholders. These connections played a crucial role in his subsequent endeavors, both in the public and private sectors.

Overall, William Lancelot Bowles III's years of service in the House of Delegates were a formative experience that equipped him with the knowledge, skills, and relationships necessary for his continued success in law, business, and politics.

Committees Served on

William Lancelot Bowles III's service on the Judiciary, Finance, and Government Organization committees during his tenure in the West Virginia House of Delegates was integral to his legislative experience and policy expertise.

Judiciary Committee:
The Judiciary Committee is responsible for considering legislation related to the state's judicial system, including courts, judges, and legal procedures. Bowles's membership on this committee provided him with a deep understanding of the legal system and the challenges facing the courts.
Finance Committee:
The Finance Committee oversees the state's budget and fiscal policies. Bowles's service on this committee gave him valuable insights into the state's financial and the impact of budget decisions on various sectors.
Government Organization Committee:
The Government Organization Committee considers legislation related to the structure and operations of state government. Bowles's work on this committee helped him develop a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of state government and the need for efficient and effective governance.

Bowles's service on these key committees not only enriched his legislative knowledge but also allowed him to advocate for his constituents' interests and shape public policy in West Virginia.

Unsuccessful Run for Office

William Lancelot Bowles III's unsuccessful run for Attorney General of West Virginia in 2006 marked a significant moment in his political career. Despite his strong qualifications and extensive experience, he ultimately lost the Democratic primary election to Darel McGraw.

Missed Opportunity for Higher Office:
Bowles's run for Attorney General was seen as a potential stepping stone to higher office, including Governor or U.S. Senate. His loss in the primary ended those aspirations for the time being.
Reflection of Political Landscape:
The 2006 election was a challenging one for Democrats in West Virginia. The state had recently shifted towards Republican control, and Bowles's defeat reflected the changing political landscape.
Impact on Future Endeavors:
While his loss was undoubtedly disappointing, Bowles did not let it derail his career. He continued to be active in politics and law, and his experience in the race provided valuable lessons for future endeavors.
Resilience and Determination:
Bowles's willingness to run for office despite the challenges demonstrates his resilience and determination. His perseverance in the face of defeat is a testament to his character and commitment to public service.

In conclusion, William Lancelot Bowles III's unsuccessful run for Attorney General of West Virginia in 2006 was a significant event in his career. While he did not achieve the office he sought, the experience provided valuable insights into the political landscape and helped shape his subsequent endeavors.

FAQs about William Lancelot Bowles III

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions regarding William Lancelot Bowles III, providing factual and concise answers.

Question 1: What is William Lancelot Bowles III's background and education?

William Lancelot Bowles III graduated with honors from the University of Virginia and the West Virginia University College of Law, demonstrating his academic excellence and commitment to legal education.

Question 2: What is Bowles' role in the legal field?

Bowles is the founder and CEO of Bowles Rice, a prominent law firm in West Virginia, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to legal practice.

Question 3: What was Bowles' involvement in politics?

Bowles served as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates for six years, contributing to the legislative process and advocating for his constituents.

Question 4: What are Bowles' notable professional affiliations?

Bowles is an active member of the American Bar Association and the West Virginia Bar Association, demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence and ethical standards.

Question 5: What areas of expertise does Bowles possess?

Bowles' expertise spans law, business, and politics, reflecting his diverse knowledge and experience in various fields.

Question 6: What is Bowles' political affiliation?

Bowles is a member of the Democratic Party, aligning with its values of social justice, economic equality, and environmental protection.

In summary, William Lancelot Bowles III is a highly accomplished individual with a distinguished career in law, politics, and business, contributing significantly to the state of West Virginia and beyond.

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Tips by William Lancelot Bowles III

William Lancelot Bowles III, a prominent figure in law, business, and politics, has shared valuable insights and advice throughout his career. Here are some key tips attributed to him:

Tip 1: Embrace Lifelong Learning
"Education is a never-ending journey. Continuously seek knowledge and skills to stay adaptable and relevant."

Tip 2: Pursue Excellence in All Endeavors
"Strive for the highest standards in your work, no matter how big or small the task may seem."

Tip 3: Build Strong Relationships
"Nurture meaningful connections with colleagues, clients, and community members. Trust and collaboration are essential for success."

Tip 4: Be a Servant Leader
"Lead with empathy and a genuine desire to serve others. Empower your team and put their needs first."

Tip 5: Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
"Value and celebrate the unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds of all individuals. Foster an environment where everyone feels respected and included."

Tip 6: Stay True to Your Values
"Integrity should guide your actions and decisions. Stand up for what you believe in, even when it's challenging."

Tip 7: Give Back to Your Community
"Use your skills, resources, and influence to make a positive impact on society. Volunteer your time and support organizations that align with your values."

By following these principles, you can emulate the success and positive contributions of William Lancelot Bowles III in your own endeavors.

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Conclusion

William Lancelot Bowles III's multifaceted career in law, business, and politics serves as an inspiring example of dedication, achievement, and service. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with his ability to bridge different sectors, has left a lasting impact on the state of West Virginia and beyond.

Bowles's legacy extends far beyond his personal accomplishments. He has been a tireless advocate for social justice, economic equality, and environmental protection. His dedication to education and mentoring has helped shape the next generation of leaders. By emulating his principles of lifelong learning, servant leadership, and community involvement, we can strive to make a meaningful difference in our own lives and the world around us.

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