About J. Michael
J. Michael Prascik built his route to law through close reading and an early interest in how people organize themselves. He earned undergraduate degrees in English and sociology from West Virginia University, then remained in the state to complete his J.D. at the West Virginia University College of Law. Those studies supply the practical tools he brings to client matters and courtroom preparation.
Early in his legal career Prascik worked at Hartley & O Brien, PLLC. That experience gave him an inside view of firm practice — the daily casework, client meetings and brief writing that shape a lawyer’s skill set. He spent time on files large and small, learning how a firm allocates resources and how to present information clearly to judges and opposing counsel.
Prascik’s undergraduate work in English and sociology shapes how he approaches legal problems. He pays attention to narrative and to the social context of disputes. That combination informs how he investigates cases, frames issues in pleadings, and explains complex matters to clients. He puts an emphasis on clear writing and direct explanation. Those are practical habits rather than talking points.
Later, Prascik became associated with Hartley Law Group, PLLC. The firm maintains offices where he meets clients and handles matters brought to the practice. He has worked inside the systems firms use to shepherd cases through discovery and toward resolution. Colleagues describe him as methodical in trial preparation and precise in correspondence. He adapts legal research into plain language for clients, so they can make informed decisions.
Outside the office he continues to follow developments in West Virginia law and to refine courtroom technique. He also draws on his academic background when evaluating witness testimony and documentary evidence. That combination of analytical habits and practical courtroom experience shapes his day-to-day approach to representation.
As of 2026 he practices at Hartley Law Group, PLLC, where he represents clients in matters handled by the firm.
