Thomas A. Heywood

Thomas A. Heywood: Strategic Legal Counsel in West Virginia

Thomas A. Heywood is a distinguished legal professional renowned for his extensive experience across a diverse range of practice areas, including health care law, banking and corporate/commercial law, and government relations. He’s a trusted advisor to businesses and community leaders, frequently sought for guidance on complex transactional matters, strategic planning, and navigating the intersection of business and government. Mr. Heywood’s unique blend of legal expertise and strategic insight makes him a valuable asset to clients seeking to achieve their business goals.

As a former Chief of Staff to the Honorable Gaston Caperton, Governor of the State of West Virginia, Mr. Heywood possesses a deep understanding of the political landscape and a proven ability to build strong relationships with government officials at all levels. This experience, coupled with his active involvement within the Bowles Rice Government Relations team, provides him with unparalleled access and influence.

Recognized as a “Best Attorney USA” attorney in several professional peer evaluations, Mr. Heywood brings a high level of credibility and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. His career is built on a foundation of rigorous academic achievement – earning his law degree in 1982 from Harvard Law School, where he served as Developments Editor of the Harvard International Law Journal and Editor of the Harvard Law Record. He further honed his legal skills through a clerkship for the Honorable John A. Field, Jr., Senior Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.

Mr. Heywood’s deep knowledge base extends to areas such as mergers and acquisitions, administrative law, commercial law, corporate finance, and health policy, making him a versatile and sought-after legal counsel. He's consistently recognized for his expertise and commitment to excellence, reflected in his numerous awards and accolades.

Practice Areas

Mr. Heywood’s practice encompasses a broad spectrum of legal services, including:

• Corporate Law: Providing legal support for business formation, contracts, corporate governance, and compliance.
• Government Relations Practice: Navigating the complexities of government regulations, advocating for clients' interests, and fostering collaborative relationships with public officials.
• Health Care Law: Specializing in regulatory compliance, healthcare transactions, and strategic legal counsel within the healthcare industry.
• Mergers and Acquisitions Law: Assisting clients with the legal aspects of business acquisitions, mergers, and sales, ensuring smooth and successful transactions.
• Administrative Law
• Commercial Law
• Corporate Finance
• Transactions

Education & Credentials

Mr. Heywood’s commitment to excellence is evident in his impressive academic background and professional achievements:

• Harvard Law School – J.D., 1982
• Stanford University – B.A. in International Relations, with Distinction
• Fellow of the American Bar Association (2010)
• Recognized in Best Attorney USA (Since 1999)

Awards & Recognition

Mr. Heywood’s contributions to the legal profession and community have been widely recognized, including:

• Lawyer of the Year: Health Care Law (Charleston, WV, 2012)
• Recognized: Corporate Law, Recognized: Government Relations Practice, Recognized: Health Care Law, Recognized: Mergers and Acquisitions Law
• Sam Walton Community Leadership Award (1999)
• Margaret Baldwin Friend of Education Award (2000)
• James R. Thomas Community Service Award (2010)
• Friend of Education Award (1995, Kanawha County Education Association)
• Distinguished Service Award (1996, West Virginia Hospital Association)
• Citizen of the Year Award (1999, National Association of Social Workers)
• Alliance for Children Leadership Award (2006)

Community Involvement & Leadership

Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Heywood is deeply engaged in his community, serving as a leader in numerous initiatives. His extensive involvement includes:

• Chairman, Affordable Insurance Workgroup (2005)
• Co-Chairman, Finance & Benefits Committee, Health Advisory Council (2002-2003)
• Chairman, Results-Based Government Task Force, Vision Shared (2002 - Present)
• Chairman, TANF Advisory Council (2001)
• Chairman, Community and Technical College Implementation Board (2000)
• Co-Chairman, Celebration 2000 (1999-2000)
• Co-Chairman, “Yes on 1 Committee” (Stock Investment Amendment to West Virginia Constitution) (1998)
• Chairman, Transition Committee on Medicaid (1997)
• Chairman, Medicaid Crisis Panel (1995)
• Chairman or Co-Chairman of several Kanawha County school bond and levy advocacy groups in recent years

Mr. Heywood’s dedication to public service is further underscored by his appointment as a member of the Judicial Reform Commission in 2009, tasked with evaluating West Virginia’s judicial system and providing recommendations to the Governor and Legislature. His proactive engagement and commitment to positive change solidify his reputation as a respected leader and a trusted legal advisor.”