Virginia Lawyers Weekly Michael W

2019

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DIGITAL EDITOR SETTING THE STANDARD Jordan Bondurant, ext. 7414 irginia Lawyers Weekly is pleased to who are establishing a name for themselves and REPORTER introduce the 2019 class of honorees in our displaying the ambition, drive, determination and Maura Mazurowski, ext. 7417 V“Leaders in the Law” program. We seek to accomplishments that set them apart among their recognize attorneys who are setting the standard peers — in their ﬁ rst 10 years in practice. ADVERTISING DIRECTOR for other lawyers – those who changed practice, The 2019 Leaders, In-House Leaders and Up and Renee Baldwin, ext. 7412 advanced the law or improved the justice system in Coming Lawyers were feted at a reception Oct. Virginia. 22. But in this special section, we are highlighting ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE This year we have added a new category of their responses to our questionnaire, providing Sara Amiss, ext. 7413 Leaders - “In-House Leaders,” honoring high- insight about them as individuals and about their achieving lawyers who work as corporate counsel accomplishments. CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE or in-house with a company in Virginia . Denise M. Woods, ext. 7407 We also recognize the 2019 class of Up & Paul E. Fletcher PRODUCTION Coming Lawyers, These are legal practitioners Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Ryan O’Shea & Jennifer McNally

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Phillip V. Anderson ...... 5 Renu M. Brennan ...... 5 AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Elliott M. Buckner ...... 6 Disa Ehrler, (612) 659-7392 John M. Cooper ...... 6 John G. “Chip” Dicks ...... 7 Ronald S. Evans ...... 8 Established 1986 Williams E. Franczek ...... 8 Melanie A. Friend ...... 9 Statewide General Circulation T. Daniel Frith III ...... 10 Published Weekly Claire Guthrie Gastanaga ...... 10 Phone number: 804•783•0770 Rebecca Geller ...... 11 GOLD SPONSORS Mark K. Groves ...... 12 1•800•456•LAWS Elizabeth Hanes ...... 12 Monroe “Mike” Kelly ...... 13 Associate Member, Associated Press Jason W. Konvicka ...... 14 Anne C. Lahren ...... 14 Member, National Newspaper Association Christie A. Leary ...... 15 ©2019 Virginia Lawyers Media Deborah G. Matthews ...... 16 All Rights Reserved John B. Mumford, Jr...... 16 Paul F. Nichols ...... 17 Copies are available for Eric M. Page ...... 18 $8.50 each, or $429 per year, from: Hon. Jayne A. Pemberton ...... 18 Brian R. Pitney ...... 19 Christine L. Poarch ...... 20 Virginia Lawyers Weekly Michael W. Robinson ...... 20 801 E. Main St., Ste. 302 Sen. Glen H. Sturtevant Jr...... 21 Richmond, Va 23219 Lorrie Sinclair Taylor ...... 21 J. Tracy Walker ...... 22 BRONZE SPONSORS Kathleen Grace Walsh ...... 23 Jeremy P. White ...... 23 Joseph H. Carpenter IV ...... 26 Adam Casagrande ...... 27 Andrea Z. Warmbier ...... 28

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[email protected] | (434) 592-5300 4 Liberty.edu/Law | /LibertyUniversityLaw Page 4 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Phillip V. Anderson

Frith, Anderson + Peake, Roanoke A civil litigator in Roanoke, Phil Anderson has been president of his firm since 2008. He is a past president of both the Virginia State Bar and the Ted Dalton American Inn of Court.

Growing up: I grew up on a family tobacco and cattle Best tip for balance: farm in Pittsylvania County. A tobacco field in You start by making the work / life balance a Southside Virginia in August is a very effective priority. It has to be intentional. Schedule and academic motivator. take time away (truly away without constant email and phone interruption), take interesting Biggest personal accomplishment: trips, build and maintain personal relation- Raising, with my very special wife, three sons ships outside of the profession, develop and who are good sons, husbands, fathers and cultivate interests in art and music, partici- contributing members of society in their own pate in a physical activity or sport, read books right. and always make and guard special time with your family. Biggest professional accomplishment: In addition to having the privilege of serving in I might have been: a number of different volunteer roles with the Maybe journalism, or something in business. Virginia State Bar and other legal organizations, helping to found and manage, with Guilty pleasure: several very exceptional friends and partners, Small batch bourbon and an occasional cigar. a law firm that continues to grow and provide outstanding legal services. Favorite getaway: South Carolina beaches or most anywhere Surprising advice: with my wife, children and grandkids. Always be prepared and never let the pursuit of a successful legal career or a particular If I had a free month: case result cost you your integrity, your credi- Would take longer than a month, but tour the bility or the relationships that truly matter. U.S. on back roads, experiencing the sights, sounds, flavors and people of the nooks and First job: crannies of the country. Doing whatever I was told to do on the family farm by my father and grandfather, from chop- You didn’t know: ping, topping and harvesting tobacco, getting I am the first in at least five generations of up hay, moving irrigation pipe, cutting wheat, Anderson men to leave the family farm, go to running farm equipment and caring for cattle. college and get an advanced degree. I made I learned that regardless the task, just get it spending money on Saturdays in the sum- done and do it well so you did not have to do mers of my high school years, traveling around it twice. the state with a Wurlitzer organ in the back of an old Chevy pickup providing music for Biggest career challenge: community horse shows; I’d be back in time Navigating, as managing partner, the many on Sunday morning to provide accompaniment challenges of a changing profession including for Sunday service. the loss of valued friends and partners.

Renu M. Brennan

Virginia State Bar, Richmond After a stint as deputy executive director of the Virginia State Bar, Renu Brennan became VSB Counsel in January. A litigator before joining the bar in 2008, she oversees all aspects of the VSB’s disciplinary operation.

Growing up: Surprising advice: I was the child of parents who immigrated Pace yourself. from India and settled in Richmond in the 1960s. Central Virginia, with its rich sense First job: of history, taught me much about political Cashier at a Farm Fresh grocery store. Those participation, government, and leadership. The with the least can teach you the most. lasting impact, though, was the hospitality and warmth of our friends and neighbors, who wel- Biggest career challenge: comed us openly and shared their community. Balancing raising my kids when they were younger with practicing law. An important mentor: Hon. Anita Rae Shapiro, Commissioner, Best tip for balance: Retired, Los Angeles County Superior Court. Set boundaries. She took a chance and hired me after I ap- proached her, resume in hand, at a local bar I might have been: meeting. She was tough and fair, and showed A journalist. me what a difference taking a chance on someone can have. Guilty pleasure: Peanut M&Ms. Biggest personal accomplishment: Prevailing (only once) in an iPhone fitness Favorite getaway: challenge against my kids. New York City.

Biggest professional accomplishment: If I had a free month: I’m honored to serve as Bar Counsel and Go to Australia and New Zealand. work with the other attorneys and staff at the bar. They inspire and teach me, and make You didn’t know: this job a true pleasure. Whether I serve well I received the “Best Procrastinator” superla- enough to count the service as an accom- tive in high school and have been compensat- plishment remains to be seen. ing (overcompensating?) ever since. May I get back to you on this? 5 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 5 Elliott M. Buckner

Breit Cantor Grana Buckner, Richmond Elliott Buckner is the president-elect of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. He also is the managing partner at his firm. An advocate for the VTLA on Capitol Hill, he frequently is an instructor for the group’s seminars.

Growing up: I grew up in Spencerport, New York, a small Biggest career challenge: town outside of Rochester. It had a true small- I still haven’t figured out how to manage the town feel, where everyone seemed to know relentless daily assault of emails. They never each other and look out for each other. stop.

An important mentor: Best tip for balance: My most important mentor is my friend and I have no idea. “Balance” is a total mystery to law partner, Irv Cantor. Irv took a chance on me. It took me a long time to come to peace me years ago and hired me as his associate. with the fact that I just can’t be everything to ev- Irv also was and is a fantastic example of all eryone every day. There are times when I need of the best things a lawyer can and should be. to go all-in at work, and then times when I try He cares deeply about his clients, he conducts to go all-in with my personal life. Such efforts himself with integrity, his word is his bond and usually fail miserably, but I am trying. he is meticulous in his preparation of every aspect of each case. I might have been: I probably would have stayed in sales, which is Biggest personal accomplishment: what I was doing when I decided to go to law Convincing the prettiest girl in high school to school. marry me and stay married for over 20 years (and counting). Guilty pleasure: I have watched “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Biggest professional accomplishment: Ricky Bobby” over 40 times and I know, deep Becoming president-elect and, in six months, down, that I will watch it at least 40 more. president of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Associ- Shake and Bake. ation. Being entrusted by VTLA’s 2000+ members to man the helm for a year is an incredible Favorite getaway: honor. The Adirondacks in New York.

Surprising advice: If I had a free month: “Smell that first.” It has saved me on more When I was 14 my family drove across the than one occasion. country and back over three weeks in the summer. I’d love to do that with my wife and kids. First job: Delivering newspapers, because it was the only You didn’t know: paying gig I could get at 12 years old. This In 7th grade I had to write an apology letter to taught me a lot about customer service, going a woman who chaperoned a field trip because I the extra mile for my customers and being hit her with a spit ball on the bus. That woman polite on collection day. is now my mother-in-law.

John M. Cooper

Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, Norfolk John Cooper is a well-known and successful plaintiff’s personal injury lawyer in Norfolk. His bar work has been on the state (VTLA board of governors) and national (chair, FELA litigation section, AAJ) levels.

Growing up: I grew up in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virgin- Best tip for balance: ia. My sense of home in Tidewater is strong. Find at least one activity outside of work that you care about passionately. For example, I An important mentor: am a long-time member of the board of my Jim Lewis, now a judge on the Virginia Beach synagogue, Ohef Sholom Temple in Norfolk, Circuit Court. He inspired in me a desire to and I am likely to be the president in two have a career as a personal injury trial attor- years. Contributing to the mission of Jewish ney. He taught me about the importance of continuity motivates me to participate. preparation as one thing that you can always control. I might have been: An anthropology professor. Biggest personal accomplishment: Twenty-five years of joyful marriage with my Guilty pleasure: wife Monica and the raising of three amazing I enjoy working from home in the mornings kids. Monica and I share values about the and feel only a little guilty about sitting in my centrality of family and dedication to our kids. beautiful backyard in the hot tub while other The happiness and success of my children, lawyers might be in their suits in court. Matthew, Camille and Leah, is the most important thing in my life. Favorite getaway: One of the greatest trips I ever took was with Biggest professional accomplishment: my family when we went to the Galapagos My biggest professional accomplishment is Islands off Ecuador. Every day was an adven- the founding of Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers ture on a different island, seeing blue-footed in 2011 with my law partner, Jim Hurley. birds and giant turtles.

First job: If I had a free month: Cleaning up at the end of the day at an ice I would probably go with my wife to her home- cream shop in my neighborhood in Norfolk. I town in Colombia, South America. was about 12 years old. I realized that work has its rewards. You didn’t know: I was a DJ in both high school and in college. Biggest career challenge: Being the voice of “Virginia John” in Santa I was a six-year associate when my firm, then Cruz, California at a non-commercial college the largest firm in Virginia Beach, dissolved. station was a blast. My family’s business In the mid-1990s, there was a lot of upheaval when I was a kid was running Oceanview in the legal profession. I learned that having Amusement Park. What could be more fun friends and contacts within the bar and in the for a child than growing up at an amusement 6 community was key. park? Page 6 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law John G. “Chip” Dicks

Gentry Locke, Richmond Chip Dicks served seven years in the General Assembly and now is an effective lobbyist and lawyer. He joined Gentry Locke last year. He was in the Virginia Code Commission work group that rewrote many real estate statutes.

Growing up: burgers at a time, run the French Fry station I was born in Petersburg and grew up in what and serve customers at the counter, all in the was Chesterfi eld County at the time. My fi rst two weeks. I got paid $1.05 per hour, father worked at Fort Lee and got transferred which was minimum wage. After that work to the Pentagon when I was 12 years old. Our experience, I was recommitted to study and family moved to Fairfax County where I attend- work hard so I could do something profession- ed middle school and high school. ally where I could make a difference.

Biggest personal accomplishment: Biggest career challenge: My grandfather told me at age 18, as the old- Always being on top of your game. est grandchild in a fairly large family, I would need to take his place as the head of the Best tip for balance: family as he got older and particularly for my Sometimes you don’t maintain that balance generation of family members. My grandfa- so you need to schedule personal time like we ther helped me become a good person and all schedule our professional lives. to always remember, family and friends don’t keep score. I might have been: I love being outside so I wanted to either be Biggest professional accomplishment: a forest or park ranger, or a lawyer. I decided I had the opportunity in my early 30s to serve to become a lawyer and enjoy the outside for in the House of Delegates. After I lost an fun. election in 1989, I have been privileged to represent clients before the General Assembly. Guilty pleasure: For the last 38 years, I have written thousands Being around water: river, ocean, lake, it of pieces of legislation that became law in the doesn’t make much difference. Code of Virginia. Favorite getaway: Surprising advice: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. My grandfather told me that you can do anything in life that you want so long as you If I had a free month: properly prepare, so be bold and go for it. I would completely unplug. While I regularly work within the system in whatever context, there are plenty of opportu- You didn’t know: nities to be bold. I am an Eagle Scout and was in scouts from age eight through 18. Former Delegate and First job: now Circuit Judge Jerrauld C. Jones was one I got a work permit at age 14 to work the night of my seatmates in the House of Delegates shift at the McDonald’s at Fairfax Circle. At the in the late 1980s. I don’t think he has ever time, McDonald’s taught you how to cook 60 been the same.

Frith Ellerman and Davis Law Firm is so very proud of Dan’s nomination to 2019 Virginia Lawyers Weekly Leaders in the Law. CongratulationsFrith Dan!

303 Washington Avenue, SW • Roanoke, Virginia 24016 Telephone: (540) 985-0098 • Fax: (540) 985-9198 www.frithlawfirm.com 7 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 7 Ronald S. Evans

Barnes & Diehl, Richmond Ron Evans is a longtime family lawyer in the Richmond area. Since 2006 he has been an active member of the Family Law Coalition, a group seeking to inform legislators and protect families and children.

Growing up: uppercut! I grew up in a small town in Rockingham County. I learned the value of hard work and First job: the ability to get along with a diverse group of Working for my father in his lumber, millwork people. and coal delivery business.

An important mentor: Most humbling experience: George G. Tanner, a family doctor, taught me Prior to law school, as a paralegal at Hunton the value of keeping confidences. Murray J. & Williams, responding to my supervisor that I Janus, taught me the importance of zealous couldn’t find any research on young people in advocacy and respect for the profession. Asia when asked to research euthanasia!

Biggest personal accomplishment: I might have been: Having been married to my lovely wife, Jenny, If I hadn’t been a lawyer, I would have contin- for 50-plus years. Actually, the accolades are ued being a professional musician. hers. Guilty pleasure: Biggest professional accomplishment: I invoke the Fifth Amendment. Having practiced litigation focused on criminal and family law for 43 years with no bar com- Favorite getaway: plaints. The Outer Banks of North Carolina and Augus- ta National during Masters week. Surprising advice: From my mother: When in close physical If I had a month off: combat with a much larger adversary, use the I would go completely MIA.

William E. Franczek

Vandeventer Black, Norfolk Bill Franczek, the former managing partner for Vandeventer Black in Norfolk, is well-known nationally as a mediator and arbitrator. He specializes in construction law and was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Construction Lawyers in 2016.

Growing up: a real shock and disappointment that almost Auburn, New York – The snow and cold made caused me to leave the practice of law. coming to Virginia an easy sell! Biggest career challenge: An important mentor: Transitioning from being managing partner in Bill Birkhead – one of our law partners here. our firm back to the practice of law after 14 He kept me in the firm at a crossroads in years. my life that turned out to be an important decision for me. Best tip for balance: Always take time for your family and doing Biggest personal accomplishment: things with them that you love. The birth of my daughter. Nothing greater than fathering a child and helping her grow. I might have been: In construction. Biggest professional accomplishment: My work as a construction arbitrator. It’s Guilty pleasure: very rewarding and blends my construction Travel – I love going all over the world to see engineering background with law. A perfect new places and cultures with my daughter. mix for me. Favorite getaway: First job: Anywhere in the world I haven’t been yet. As a construction engineer on nuclear power plants. I learned how so many people and If I had a free month: components must come together to build a Travel around the world. successful project. You didn’t know: Most humbling experience: I played basketball for Jim Boeheim at Syra- As a second- or third-year associate, another cuse when they had a freshman team. (That’s lawyer and I lost a case in federal court that how long ago that was!). I love Broadway we really felt we should and had won. It was plays. 8 Page 8 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Melanie A. Friend

CowanGates, Richmond Melanie Friend practices family law in the Richmond area. She is a past president of the Metro Richmond Women’s Bar Association and currently serves on the boards of the Richmond Bar and the Greater Richmond Bar Foundation.

Growing up: and feeling a lot of anxiety and frustration I grew up on a beef cattle farm in rural West about the future. It’s diffi cult not to absorb Virginia. My father’s family has owned the their emotions and let their problems follow same farm for several generations, and my me home. On the opposite end of the emo- closest neighbors growing up were my grand- tional spectrum, I wouldn’t want to become so parents and several of my uncles, aunts and jaded that I can’t empathize with my clients. cousins. Children started contributing to the workload on the farm from a very young age, Best tip for balance: and we learned that everyone had to pitch Work can be very consuming, but it can’t in to help operations run smoothly. In some always be the top priority. Family, friends or ways, the legacy of running a small family farm time for myself have to come fi rst sometimes. is quite a bit like that of a small law fi rm. I make time for exercise most days before work, and I try to make sure I do something An important mentor: fun that I want to do at least once a week. Frank Cowan, the founder of my fi rm, had a tremendous infl uence on the way I practice I might have been: law. He taught me how to be a lawyer. He A professor. I considered pursuing a Ph.D. was absolutely adamant about civility in the instead of a law degree. practice of law. Guilty pleasure: Surprising advice: Long Sunday brunches followed by long Sun- When I was in college, my advisor knew I want- day afternoon naps. ed to be a trial lawyer. He told me that taking some theatre classes would do as much to Favorite getaway: prepare me for that as my writing classes. He I love going to the mountains – beautiful hikes was right. and limited cell phone service are two of my favorite things. First job: Working in a shoe store in an outlet mall. I If I had a free month: think my primary lessons were that taxes re- I would start working my way through the long ally decrease your paycheck, and sometimes list of books I want to read. your boss gets to be right even when he or she is in fact very wrong. You didn’t know: I love to bake, and I make themed or decorat- Biggest career challenge: ed cakes for my friends’ birthdays. With family law, I often work with clients expe- I probably should be ashamed of the number riencing one of the lowest points of their lives of pairs of shoes I own. I am not.

John Cooper

on being selected as one of Virginia Lawyers Weekly’s Congratulations “Leaders in the Law” for 2019. Leaders in the Law Schedule your next mediation with JS.

Helping those injured in car, truck & Hon. Joseph J. Ellis Hon. Melvin R. Hughes motorcycle accidents as well as (Ret.) (Ret.) serious injury & wrongful death cases.

PO Box 18093 • Richmond VA 23226 Your Injury, Our Fight! 1-888-Ex-Curia (1-888-392-8742) • www.juridicalsolutions.com 757-455-0077 COOPERHURLEY.COM 9 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 9 T. Daniel Frith III

Frith Ellerman Davis, Roanoke Dan Frith is a well-known and successful plaintiff’s medical malpractice lawyer in Roanoke. He spends his volunteer time with Jobs for Virginia Graduates and with the Washing- ton & Lee and Virginia Tech alumni groups.

Growing up: Most humbling experience: I grew up in a wonderful small college town, I tried the “perfect” medical malpractice case Blacksburg. The town offered the best of two against one of my early mentors mentioned worlds: a small town which created a tight-knit above (Bill Eskridge) after moving to Roanoke. community with a strong sense of belonging All of my evidence was admitted and all of combined with the diversity provided by the my witnesses did a great job. My closing, families of professors from all over the world. after three days of trial, could not have been better. It was a very sad case and the family An important mentor: was devastated with the loss of their husband I was fortunate to work for three extraordinary and father due to what I believed was clear lawyers over my career: Bill Eskridge, at that negligence by the Emergency Room doctor. time, managing partner with PennStuart in The jury was out less than 40 minutes…and Abingdon; the late Bill Poff, head of litigation returned with a defense verdict. I learned that with Woods Rogers in Roanoke; and Marshall you are never as good as you think you are Mundy in Roanoke. Each of these mentors and that you can never predict what a jury will had different skill sets but all were amazing do with your case. (and demanding) lawyers.

Biggest personal accomplishment: I might have been: Easy question: My family. My wife Linda (an I would have loved to have been a football or accomplished and recently retired lawyer) and basketball coach at the college or high school two sons, Bo and Davis. level. I like most all sports and the hard work and dedication it takes to be successful. First job: My father (a lawyer and later a judge) lied Guilty pleasure: about my age (I was 15 at the time) to obtain Lagavulin 16-year-old single malt Scotch a work permit which allowed me to work with whisky. an excavation contractor during the summer. I spent eight to 10-hour days for my first two Favorite getaway: weeks on the job using a jackhammer to Litchfield Beach in Pawleys Island, South Car- break rock and drill blast holes for the place- olina. We have an oceanfront condominium, ment of dynamite. At the end of that very long and we cannot get there enough. summer, my father asked me if I thought my body and back might give out before my brain If I had a free month: did and, if so, he suggested I work a little Get on a road bike and travel from Southern harder in school. Spain north through France and then into Italy.

Claire Guthrie Gastañaga

American Civil Liberties Union, Richmond Now the leading advocate for civil liberties in Virginia with many notable victories, Claire Gastañaga has more than 40 years of legal and government relations experience at the federal, state and local levels.

Growing up: of the store under her skirt pressed between As a military dependent, I was born in En- her thighs. gland, lived in Key West, Oklahoma, Virginia, Hawaii and then Virginia again. I learned not Most humbling experience: to fear change -- things change, sometimes for I was reminded at two key times in my career the good, sometimes for the bad and, regard- that I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I learned less, you can survive and, sometimes, thrive. to seek to understand and to listen.

An important mentor: Biggest career challenge: Sheldon Steinbach, who was general counsel Managing the accelerated, positive growth at the American Council on Education, helped that has occurred since 2016 at the ACLU of me become the assistant university counsel Virginia. at Princeton early in my career and set me on a path that led to where I am today. Best tip for balance: Find a life partner who draws a bright line Biggest personal accomplishment: between work and non-work and follow his or Being a good “big sister” to my five younger her example. siblings, including helping my brother Peter, who is autistic, find a lifetime home and job in I might have been: Princeton. I probably would have become a doctor.

Biggest professional accomplishment: Guilty pleasure: Being entrusted with the job of leading the HGTV. ACLU of Virginia at this critical time in our country’s history when the fundamental foun- Favorite getaway: dations of our democracy are being severely Esperanza, Vieques, Puerto Rico. challenged. If I had a free month: Surprising advice: If the month off came with a stipend, I’d travel “Without big risks, there are no big success- to Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand. es.” - William G. Bowen, then-president of If not, I’d spend the month doing all the things Princeton University I’ve been putting off including purging my life of unnecessary “things.” First job: I was a sales clerk in the budget infant depart- You didn’t know: ment at Hecht’s department store. I learned a I make really good pernil al horno and arroz lot about how people interact with people who con grandules. I blew a question the answer are in service to them and about how to be of to which was, “What is wilted salad?” and service. I also watched a woman try to shoplift came in third on Jeopardy. 10 a canister vacuum cleaner by carrying it out Page 10 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Rebecca Geller

The Geller Law Group, Fairfax Rebecca Geller launched The Geller Law Group eight years ago to provide affordable legal services to small businesses, non-profits, families and individuals. She has championed causes that better the legal community, her local community and the profession.

Growing up: height of the Beanie Baby craze. My first law- I grew up in Richmond. Growing up there gave yer job was working at a Washington law firm me a sense of our country’s history, but also with 500 attorneys. pride in my Jewish faith since Jews are such a minority in the Richmond area. Living in a Biggest career challenge? city that is overwhelmingly Christian, the small Starting my law firm. Jewish community was very tightly knit and I found my Jewish identity in this community. I might have been: I have always dabbled in politics. Luckily, my An important mentor: legal career allows me to serve as general In law school, I had the privilege of interning counsel to political consulting clients so I am for now-retired U.S. District Judge Gerald able to combine two of my interests. Bruce Lee (Eastern District of Virginia). He taught me the importance of giving back and Guilty pleasure: the true meaning of “to whom much is given, Attending Washington sporting events – espe- much is expected.” cially playoffs or championship games.

Biggest professional accomplishment: Favorite getaway: While working as an attorney in a large law The beach will always be my favorite vacation firm, I saw brilliant women fleeing from the place. The sound of the waves, smell of salt profession because big law firm partners air, and sunshine on my skin soothes my soul. showed disregard for attorneys’ lives outside the firm and it was becoming impossible to be If I had a free month: an actively involved mom and also a lawyer. Sleep! I would also spend time with my I knew there had to be a better way to run a children volunteering in their classrooms, vol- law firm that enabled women to be moms and unteering as a family at our local food pantry successful lawyers. But, I didn’t see an alter- and take a trip somewhere exciting. We are in native model in existence—so I created one. the process of planning a family trip to Israel this spring with the kids. Surprising advice: When someone tells you “this is the way You didn’t know: things have always been done,” the key to Despite running a law firm of 21 employees change is to simply ask, “But why?” This is and having three young kids, I do not drink cof- how we change the world. Do not accept the fee. In fact, I have never had a cup of coffee in status quo just because it has been there for my life. I regularly take flying trapeze lessons hundreds of years. with my 8- and 10-year-old boys.

First job: Working in a Beanie Baby store during the

The attorneys and staff of BREIT CANTOR GRANA BUCKNER congratulate ELLIOTT BUCKNER as a member of the 2019 class of Leaders in Law!

Thank you for your leadership at Breit Cantor Grana Buckner and best of luck for your upcoming presidency of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association!

Richmond / Virginia Beach / 855.212.8200 / VirginiaTrialFirm.com 11 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 11 Mark K. Groves

Glasser and Glasser, Norfolk Mark Groves has just taken offi ce as president of the National Cred- itors Bar. Mark is a respected speaker on topics involving federal and state fi nancial services law, governmental and healthcare col- lections, compliance management and legal ethics.

Growing up: many hardships. She hugged me and said I grew up in Smithfi eld, Virginia – the ham she was going through all kinds of setbacks capital of the world. I am the youngest of and she had nowhere to turn. No family, no four boys raised by two terrifi c parents. I love support, no hope. I remember it like it was Smithfi eld and go back there often. yesterday. The lesson learned I think is best described by Dr. Seuss: “To the world you may An important mentor: be one person; but to one person you may be I admired Richard S. Glasser for his very the world.” personal connection with the fi rm’s asbestos clients and his courage to represent them Best tip for balance: against heavy odds. He lived for his faith, his It’s the quality that counts. Truly listen and be family and his fi rm. He left our fi rm, our com- “present” when present. Value and love the munity and the bar in a better place. ones you are with all the time and take no day for granted. Biggest professional accomplishment: Becoming a member/shareholder of the Everyone has a “guilty pleasure.” What is Glasser fi rm. My partners share a culture of yours? service to others, professional and community Eating Ben and Jerry’s Cherry Garcia ice involvement and justice for all. cream while watching the television show “Gold Rush.” Surprising advice: “Seek fi rst to understand, before seeking to What’s a favorite vacation/getaway be understood.” Dr. Covey’s unassailable location? maxim perfectly facilitates trust, respect and Anywhere my family is - that hopefully includes true interdependence – every time. a beach, board games and endless laughter.

First job: If I had a free month: At 16, I had a summer gig as a fi berglass I would pray each day that I would not get re- “specialist” for a boat builder named Sonny placed at work before I returned! Also, I would Hines. I was responsible for taking an electric defi nitely spend more time with family, church grinder/sander to smooth out the boat’s and pro bono. seams. Despite extensive precautions, the microscopic particles of glass get on your skin You didn’t know: and do not completely wash off, even with the I have worked with only Norfolk-based employ- coldest shower. Ouch! ers my entire adult life: WHRO-TV/FM public broadcasting, the Virginia Port Authority, Ghent Most humbling experience: Law Offi ces and Glasser and Glasser. This Twenty-three years ago, I was able to forgive month, I was sworn in as the 14th president an $8,500 debt for a woman struggling with of the National Creditors Bar Association.

Elizabeth Hanes

Consumer Litigation Associates, Richmond Elizabeth Hanes is an experienced trial attorney who represents consumers fi ghting improper collection actions and unfair credit reports. She offers a decade of legal experience in federal court working to protect individuals’ rights.

Growing up: Biggest career challenge: I grew up in Lewisburg, West Virginia, on my Pivoting to a new career path. Just as I was family farm. In a small town, your community fi nishing my federal clerkships in 2009, the includes everyone from the mayor, to attor- economy fell apart and I was unable to start neys and doctors, to electricians and to farm at the law fi rm where I had summered during hands. So I learned to interact with a diverse law school. It was stressful to suddenly cross section of my community and to value have the fl oor fall out from beneath me, but every person and their opinion. I was fortunate to fi nd a temporary 12-week position with the Federal Public Defender’s Important mentors: Offi ce, which turned into a full-time position. Both Judge Joseph R. Goodwin and Judge Seven great years later, I had the opportunity Robert B. King. Judge Goodwin always told me to pivot again into civil litigation. It was a little that the most important thing you could learn less scary the second time, but a challenge as a lawyer was to “not take bad cases.” nevertheless to change career paths. Judge King encouraged me to accept a job with the Federal Public Defender’s Offi ce Best tip for balance: because I would learn to try a case. Hire all the help you can, rely on friends and family and have a good partner. Biggest personal accomplishment: Surviving every day with a full-time job, hus- I might have been: band, four children, dog and three chickens. A city planner or architect.

First job: Guilty pleasure: I was a sandwich artist at a local café in Travel and the spa. Lewisburg. I applied for the waitressing job with a resume and was hired on the spot. I You didn’t know: learned the value of working hard and being I was tear-gassed while studying abroad in nice to those in the service industry. Zimbabwe. I was living in New York City during 9/11. 12 Page 12 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Monroe “Mike” Kelly

Williams Mullen, Virginia Beach A leader in the banking and real estate law industry in Hampton Roads, Mike Kelly has more than 25 years of experience representing commercial banks and other fi nancial institutions.

Growing up: Biggest career challenge: I grew up in New York, Maryland, Virginia, The biggest challenge has been to continue a Washington and London. In Washington, I productive practice as I grow older and many learned so much about our democratic institu- longtime clients and client contacts no longer tions and our freedoms. In London, I learned need legal assistance. This requires a con- how critical the rule of law is to a democracy. tinuing assessment and reassessment of how I can help with business development. An important mentor: Norfolk attorney Reid Spencer told me to I might have been: always look carefully at the Code of Virginia for I started as a naval offi cer and probably would the answer even though your fi rst thought is, have made that a career except for meeting “No way that is likely to be addressed in the some incredible attorneys over the years who Code.” left a lasting impression on me.

Biggest personal accomplishment: Guilty pleasure: As president of the Norfolk Forum, I hosted I enjoy wine and learning about the grape vari- appearances of Margaret Thatcher, Henry etals that are grown and made into excellent Kissinger, Dick Cheney, Tom Brokaw, Judge wines around the world. The history of wine Robert Bork and the Capitol Steps. has become my hobby. I understand what I am tasting. Biggest professional accomplishment: To be involved in the creative fi nancing for the Favorite getaway: current Portsmouth courthouse. This was a The Greenbrier Resort is my favorite getaway, public-private project with respect to construc- being a world class resort relatively close at tion and resulted in a fi rst-class building, on hand, and having a good wine list. time and within budget. If I had a free month: Surprising advice: I would spend a week in London, then travel My University of Virginia criminal law professor, around England, Wales and Scotland with Dean Monrad Paulsen, always said, “Never a visit to Paris during the fi nal days of the paraphrase a statute.” month.

First job: You didn’t know: As a young naval offi cer on a destroyer I am knowledgeable about the English Premier assigned to the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, I was League, the best soccer league in the world, in charge of the R Division -- electricians, having become a fan while living in London. pipefi tters, repairmen and other trades. A I had the opportunity to experience the incred- very rewarding part of the job was the effort ible energy of Margaret Thatcher when she to integrate African American personnel in was in Norfolk for the Norfolk Forum. meaningful numbers.

Two great leaders. We’re exceptionally pleased to join Virginia Lawyers Weekly in recognizing Chip Dicks as one of the “Leaders in the Law,” and Cate Huff as an “Up & Coming” attorney in 2019.

Serving the Commonwealth. Gentry Locke is poised to continue its legacy of great legal work throughout Virginia and beyond from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Richmond.

Chip (John G.) Dicks, Partner Catherine J. Huff, Partner

Roanoke | Lynchburg | Richmond | gentrylocke.com 13 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 13 Jason W. Konvicka

Allen Allen Allen & Allen, Richmond The president of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Jason Kon- vicka is a founding member of his firm’s medical malpractice team. His practice also includes complex injury cases including brain injury, truck accidents and bus accidents.

Growing up: my client, I turned the offer down. The adjuster I grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, and lived called her boss and requested additional there until I finished middle school. My family settlement authority. While we were waiting moved from Little Rock to Annapolis, Mary- for the supervisor to call back, the jury buzzer land, the summer before high school, where rang. You know the rest – defense verdict. The I lived through high school, college and law biggest lesson I learned is to be more asser- school. To say that the two areas were differ- tive. I often thought that, if I had simply asked ent would be an understatement. I often joke the judge to hold the jury for a few more that I traded in my camouflage hunting clothes minutes, that case would have settled. for madras plaid and boat shoes. Best tip for balance: An important mentor: I would encourage every lawyer to take as Judge Richard Bray taught me how to refine much vacation as they reasonably can, and my writing style and how to critically analyze to ideally take a two-week vacation every few both sides of a case. After my clerkship, I years. The time away allows you to recharge was equally fortunate to learn how to try a your batteries, spend important time with your personal injury case while working with Walter family, and to put life in perspective. Regular Emroch and Bill Kilduff, and later Chris Guedri. exercise is also very important.

Surprising advice: I might have been: Speak last. A colleague and friend reminded I gave serious thought to culinary school. me that the best leaders aren’t the smart- est in the room. They are the leaders who Guilty pleasure: surround themselves with people who are Late night television and some gelato. smarter than they are. And they listen. Favorite getaway: First job: St. Barth’s. My wife and sons (more recently) My first jobs all involved cleaning – cleaning have been more than 10 times over the past offices, cleaning boats and cleaning construc- 25 years. tion sites. I learned the value of hard work, the value of a dollar and how to connect with people from all walks of life. If I had a free month: Travel. Most humbling experience: I tried a “no offer” medical malpractice case You didn’t know: years ago. The insurance adjuster observed I am a big fan of live music and have seen the the trial and made a substantial offer while Grateful Dead roughly 50 times. the jury was deliberating. After consulting with

Anne C. Lahren

Pender & Coward, Virginia Beach Anne Lahren practices immigration, employment and family law. She has served as a leader at the James Kent American Inn of Court and the Virginia Women Attorneys Association. She shares her knowledge through professional leadership and mentoring. Growing up: changes in policy and procedure coupled with As the child of a naval officer, I lived in many less-than-accurate media coverage that fuels different locations. During the three years we speculation and fear. lived in Hawaii, my brother Jeff and I spent time exploring outdoors. In England for two years, Best tip for balance: our mom and dad took us traveling through En- For me, exercise is essential along with eating gland and Western Europe at every opportunity. well and getting enough sleep. I maintain a separate calendar with non-work activities and An important mentor: schedule occasional free days when I refuse to Former Pender & Coward managing partner plan or commit to anything in advance. Rick Matthews encouraged my involvement with the James Kent American Inn of Court and I might have been: the Virginia Women Attorneys Association. A racecar driver! I love fast cars and now be- long to the Beachcombers Corvette Club where Biggest professional accomplishment: I participate in track days and local events, Serving as president for the James Kent most recently as part of the NAS Oceana Air American Inn of Court and joining the faculty Show. for the Harry L. Carrico Professionalism Course required for all new admittees to the Virginia Guilty pleasure: Bar. I am a thrill seeker by nature and enjoy driving my Corvette, especially on the track. I recently Surprising advice: began riding a motorcycle and plan to eventual- Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing. ly get my pilot’s license. Also, never assume that someone who is older or has more years in practice knows the law or Favorite getaway: the facts of the case better than you do. Even Hawaii. I lived there for three years and love if they do, keep your cool and you will do well. everything about it from the exotic locale and amazing scenery to the laid-back “island life” Most humbling experience: where flip flops are always appropriate attire. My client and I were both blindsided at court when the client’s perception of key facts turned You don’t know: out to be quite different from reality. I learned I only drink the occasional cup of coffee on to ask questions the right way and insist that the weekends and never drink any coffee clients quantify statements whenever possible. during the week (though I love my Diet Coke). I have never really enjoyed running, but I love Biggest career challenge: participating in running events and have com- Keeping up with immigration law, with endless pleted more than 20 half marathons, one full 14 marathon and numerous mud runs. Page 14 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Christie A. Leary

Leary Porter Law, Fairfax Christie Leary is a veteran criminal and personal injury attorney in Fairfax who has served as a substitute judge for five years, sitting in both general district and juvenile and domestic relations courts.

Growing up: administrative legal staff and the importance We moved four times during my childhood of entrepreneurial activities that benefit my because of my father’s career in the FBI. I firm. learned to adapt to new environments. Best tip for balance: An important mentor: Setting aside time to address personal needs Peter Greenspun’s dynamic, quick-witted style as a matter of daily routine is of absolute in the courtroom, as well as his emphasis on importance. professional representation, taught me the importance of leaving no stone unturned. Jon I might have been: Shapiro’s carefully researched and thoughtful An event planner. I like to organize events and plan of attack demonstrated the importance come up with creative ways to celebrate the of preparation. event.

Biggest professional accomplishment: Guilty pleasure: My appointment by the judges of the 19th Cir- I enjoy watching NHL games and hockey at all cuit to serve as a substitute judge has taught levels. My husband has lived and breathed ice me innumerable valuable lessons. hockey since he was born.

Surprising advice: Favorite getaway: In a job interview, now-Judge Thomas Mann My extended family has gone on vacation to told me I would be “on the box” – charged Hilton Head every summer since I was a child. with knowing where every note, every piece of evidence, every potential exhibit and any piece If I had a free month: of information could be quickly located. I left I would take a week to accomplish all those with a clear understanding that I would need things you never start because of the daily to be personally “on the box” in any case I grind of life. I would visit family and friends, touched as a litigator. and finally spend the last two weeks in a place I have not visited before. Most humbling experience: I represented the “Beltway Sniper.” Defending You didn’t know: a capital murder prosecution involving multiple First, I have a crafting closet complete with victims in multiple jurisdictions personally paper, stamps, stickers, iron-on vinyl, ribbon, affecting so many people proved not only greeting cards and other items. Taking on a humbling but also invaluable to my career in project relieves stress and helps me focus on the law. something other than the practice of law. Second, I went to law school with the hope Biggest career challenge: that I could become an FBI agent, but I have I took a leap of faith and hung out my own enjoyed every moment of my legal career and shingle. It has taught me how to manage an have never once looked back.

Congratulations to all ofof the winners as well as our own Nicholas V. Albu on his recognition as one of the Virginia Lawyers Weekly Up & Coming Lawyers.

reedsmith.com ABU DHABI ATHENS AUSTIN BEIJING CENTURY CITY CHICAGO DUBAI FRANKFURT HONG KONG HOUSTON KAZAKHSTAN LONDON LOS ANGELES MIAMI MUNICH NEW YORK PARIS PHILADELPHIA PITTSBURGH PRINCETON RICHMOND SAN FRANCISCO SHANGHAI SILICON VALLEY SINGAPORE TYSONS WASHINGTON, D.C. WILMINGTON 15 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 15 Deborah G. Matthews

Law Office of Deborah G. Matthews, Alexandria Deborah Matthews focuses her practice on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate and related matters. She also is a founder of the “Our Children Fund” for foster children of Fairfax County.

Growing up: I might have been: Born in Detroit, we moved to Milwaukee as The law is my third career after being a jour- soon as I was old enough to travel. Two years nalist and congressional staffer, and it is the later we moved to Alpena, Michigan. After one I always wanted. my first semester of junior high we left for Lansing, the capital city. Guilty pleasure: On the advice of counsel, I invoke my Fifth Biggest personal accomplishment: Amendment right not to answer. Though it Three years ago, on behalf of a client, I called would certainly involve chocolate. the county foster care department about making a bequest and was astonished to learn Favorite getaway: that no fund existed. I contacted the Commu- I love being outdoors where I can hear running nity Foundation of Northern Virginia where I water or waves rolling. The unsalted and established the “Our Children Fund” for foster shark-free Great Lakes are favorites. children in Fairfax County. If I had a free month: Biggest professional accomplishment: I would volunteer with Project Corazon, operat- I assisted a couple with an emergency ed by Lawyers for Good Government, helping guardianship for their son who had suffered to reunite families separated at our southern a breakdown and refused to eat for several border and working to defend the rights of weeks. I drafted the petition, raced to the immigrants and their families, especially their courthouse as it was closing, figured out I children. needed to see the duty judge, met with him in chambers where I advocated for forced You didn’t know: medication and left with a signed emergency That I was a foster parent. That I led a labor order. The parents said I saved their son’s life action as a fifth grader. I grew up in Michi- that day. gan where average winter high temps are in the upper 20s. As a safety patrol member, I Surprising advice: walked one mile from home to my post and I was told never to leave a courtroom without then a second mile to school. We student a signed order. I also was reminded that every volunteers were frozen by the time we arrived. day one walks out of the courthouse through I told the principal we needed to have hot the public entrance is a good day. chocolate or we would quit. And it came to be that the cafeteria ladies had steaming hot chocolate waiting for us when the temperature was 32 degrees or less.

John B. Mumford Jr.

Hancock Daniel & Johnson, Richmond John Mumford is the immediate past president of the Virginia As- sociation of Defense Attorneys. He is a nationally recognized expert in insurance and healthcare and has shared his leadership abilities with a number of voluntary bar organizations.

Growing up: Most humbling experience: I was exposed to people ranging from a sen- I once started off summary judgment remarks ator’s kid who wanted to go to Harvard to the with “Good morning, your honor” when it was daughter of a Denny’s waitress who wanted to 1 p.m. The judge remarked that it was not be a professional dirt bike racer. I learned that morning anymore and that, if I did not know people’s worth is in their character, not what the time of day, he was not sure he wanted they do or what they want to do. I also learned to hear anything else I had to say. Lesson that people who aspire to be dirt bike racers learned – the first few words out of your are generally a fun lot. mouth will set the stage for everything that follows. An important mentor: Dicky Bland is a model of an excellent I might have been: attorney and boss, great husband and father, I skateboarded a lot growing up. I once saw and someone who everyone likes very much. Tony Hawk and the Powell Peralta skateboard I have tried to emulate him over the last 21 team tearing it up. My dream of being a pro years. skateboarder died that day. Hello, law!

Biggest professional accomplishment: Guilty pleasure: My first jury trial was representing a single IPAs and French fries. mom who accidently caused a fire that de- stroyed her trailer. The owner sued her for neg- Favorite getaway: ligence, and she became my first real client, Hotel del Coronado in San Diego. paying me $25 a week when she could. We had a jury trial in the historic Caroline County If I had a free month: courthouse and received a defense verdict. I Travel to vineyards, music festivals and far- was hooked on litigation. away places with waves to ride.

Surprising advice: You didn’t know: “Things are never as good or as bad as they I am a lifelong soccer player and fan, and first appear.” currently serve as president of the Rich- mond Strikers Soccer Club, a nonprofit youth First job: sports club serving around 7,500 kids in the At Bob’s Big Boy restaurant, I learned to deal Richmond area. I am also an avid stand-up with people – happy, angry, difficult, easy-going paddleboarder/surfer. I’ve paddled in Hawaii, and all points in between. I have a strong California, British Columbia, Vermont, Bermu- hiring preference for people who have worked da, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, in the restaurant industry. Florida, Tennessee, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Texas, West Virginia, the Caymans and Ore- 16 gon, and look forward to adding to the list. Page 16 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Paul F. Nichols Nichols Zauzig Sandler, Woodbridge A family practice attorney who appears at all levels of the Virginia court system, Paul Nichols is the supervising partner of a 12-lawyer fi rm and former chair of the Family Law Sec- tion of the Prince William County Bar Association.

Growing up: injury and workers’ comp work. I had to stop I grew up in Wilkes-Barre and was the fi rst of doing comp because I couldn’t handle the my family to attend college. Coming out of the disapointment when clients would get their coal mining country of Pennsylvania gave me maximum benefi ts and still couldn’t make it. a strong work ethic. I can’t help it; I’ve got to I’ve been an advocate for workers’ comp ever work hard. since.

An important mentor: Biggest career challenge: As a teenager, I worked summers for a home- Founding a successful law fi rm with my town attorney. He came up through tough partner Chuck Zauzig and staying together in times and later became a judge. He showed excess of 30 years, which is rare with a family me what it took to succeed. In my early law and personal injury practice. practice days I leaned on family lawyers Betty Thompson, Marty Gannon and Tom Mains, Best tip for balance: who all greatly infl uenced my practice. Traveling to interesting places with family and friends can put life’s challenges in perspec- Biggest personal accomplishment: tive. It’s important to unwind and really be Nothing matters more in life than family. present with people who know and love you Having close relationships with my kids and well. grandkids and being involved in their lives is something I’ve always made a priority. They I might have been: mean everything. Early on, I wanted to become a professional golfer. After playing four years in college, I Biggest professional accomplishment: learned the limitations of my game. Thank Growing a law fi rm with Chuck Zauzig as my goodness I didn’t pursue that as a career; I partner and mentoring several young lawyers; would have been putting bags on a cart as an helping them to achieve their goals. assistant pro somewhere!

Surprising advice: Guilty pleasure: To prepare the other side’s case while you are Without a doubt, golf. preparing your own. Favorite getaway: First job: Pebble Beach and trips to Florida with my wife. A caddy at the golf course. I learned to take care of myself fi nancially and how to work If I had a free month: hard. Spend a few weeks in California with my daughter and grandchildren and a few weeks Most humbling experience: at my house as a “staycation” to spend time Early in my practice, I did a lot of personal with my wife, son and grandson.

THE ALLEN LAW FIRM CONGRATULATES JASON W. KONVICKA

ON BEING NAMED TO VIRGINIA LAWYERS WEEKLY’S 2019 CLASS OF “LEADERS IN THE LAW”

allenandallen.com | 866.388.1307 17 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 17 Eric M. Page

Eckert Seamans, Cherin & Mellott, Richmond Eric Page is the immediate past chair of the Virginia State Bar Legal Ethics Committee and a Fellow of the Virginia Law Foundation. He represents utilities and other business with regulatory and administrative issues.

Growing up: has come in handy many times in my life. I grew up in Arlington. It was a diverse place with a vibrant mix of cultures, nationalities Most humbling experience: and religions. The public schools I attended After filing my first brief at the State Corpo- reflected this diversity and helped shape my ration Commission, I received a call from views of society. someone on the staff who walked me through several typographical and grammatical errors. An important mentor: He suggested that I be more careful in my One memorable mentor was Howard Dob- subsequent submissions. I asked him what bins, who taught me how to be singularly he thought of my brief notwithstanding the focused on representing clients. He showed errors, but he said that even a few mistakes me that there is no substitute for rolling up are so distracting as to make it impossible to your sleeves, doing the research, writing the evaluate my advocacy. I learned to not distract documents, answering clients’ questions and the reader with anything less than excellence. just performing the work. Best tip for balance: Biggest personal accomplishment: When our children were young, it was im- My family is the most important part of my portant that I be home for dinner, baths and life, and, with my wife, perhaps my greatest bedtime. This often meant coming to the accomplishment. office before dawn. When they were older, I attended tennis matches, soccer matches, Biggest professional accomplishment: swim meets, lacrosse matches and ballet I have had the privilege of serving on the Vir- recitals whenever possible. This meant ginia State Bar Council for over seven years. I returning to the office on many evenings or have chaired the Standing Committee on Le- Saturday mornings. gal Ethics, the MCLE Board and the Board of Governors of the Administrative Law Section. Guilty pleasure: I love listening to rock and roll from the 1960s First job: and early 1970s. I turn the volume up way too My first job was working as a teenager for the loudly and sing much too loudly. summer at a Burger King my uncle owned in Paoli, Pennsylvania. Attending to fast food Favorite getaway: customers is excellent training for dealing Bald Head Island, North Carolina, is the most with clients. I also learned how to make a wonderful and relaxing place, where travel is Whopper, with cheese or without. This skill by golf cart, bicycles and walking.

Hon. Jayne A. Pemberton

Chesterfield County J&DR Court, Chesterfield

Judge Jayne Pemberton exemplifies both legal professionalism and personal altruism. She has striven throughout her career as a litigator and judge to make a positive impact on both the legal community and the community at large Growing up: do unpleasant things, but we do not have to Growing up in the small town of Temple, do them in an unpleasant manner. I keep a Texas, taught me the importance of hard work, plaque on my bench that simply says “Stay helping others and being involved in the com- Humble.” munity. And of course, I learned to appreciate the beauty of Friday night lights, when the Biggest career challenge: whole community came together in support of In our court, litigants can become extremely our football team. emotional. We litigate issues involving the things most important to them, their children An important mentor: and families. I have found that if we treat each Dick Schaffer and Ben Lacy not only taught and every individual with dignity and respect, me about the law, they taught me about life. they can more easily accept unfavorable They believed in me and encouraged me to rulings. trust my instincts. They were always kind and humble, and they treated all those around I might have been: them with dignity and respect. I would have become a college English professor. Thankfully, I get to serve as an adjunct law Biggest personal accomplishment: professor at the University of Richmond, so I When my son Beckett was 5 years old, we still get the opportunity to teach and mentor lost his father. I knew that I had to get us both students. through the greatest tragedy of our lives. I was determined to raise a happy and hopeful little Guilty pleasure: boy. When I look at him now, I am incredibly Binge-watching Netflix series. Right now, my proud of the kind, happy and yes, hopeful son and I love the “Stranger Things” series. young man he is becoming. Favorite getaway: Biggest professional accomplishment: London is my favorite place in the world. As a juvenile and domestic relations judge, every day, we see families facing some of the If I had a free month: greatest challenges of their lives. We work Travel with my husband and son. with them, and hopefully provide them with the guidance and opportunity to move forward You didn’t know: with hope in a better tomorrow. I lived in Japan for three years prior to law school and taught English. While there, I Most humbling experience: earned my second degree black belt in Kendo, It is incredibly humbling as a JDR judge to be the Japanese form of fencing. entrusted with people’s lives, liberties and 18 children. As judges, we sometimes have to I am a huge “Star Wars” fan. Page 18 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Brian R. Pitney

Sands Anderson, Richmond Brian Pitney practices business law at Sands Anderson. He is active in the community – serving on the board of directors at the Cam- eron K. Gallagher Foundation, which raises awareness of mental health issues in teenagers.

Growing up: Most humbling experience: I grew up in Hastings, Nebraska, a small When Joe Kaestner hired me fresh out of law town with a strong sense of community and school, he did so on a Friday on the condition people of Midwestern sensibilities. I enjoyed that I give the opening statement before a jury playing outdoors and creating our own fun as with him on Monday. I practiced the state- kids – no one locked their doors. Neighbors, ment over and over with Joe that weekend. teachers and coaches were all salt of the The jury ended up convicting our client. While earth mentors. nerve-wracking, I muscled through it and recognized the importance of a mentor early An important mentor: in my career. David Byrne, lead singer of The Talking Heads. He proved you can achieve a high level of suc- Biggest career challenge: cess in an unconventional manner and under Life/work balance. The work will always be your own terms. there, so taking the time to focus on family, friends, and sometimes yourself is critical in Biggest personal accomplishment: staying happy and healthy. Convincing my wife of 24 years, Muriel, to marry me, and raising our two children who Best tip for balance: Have one or more hob- have grown into responsible, caring and happy bies which allow you to blow off steam, and young adults. My family brings me the great- keep the creativity flowing. Exercising the right est joy in my life. side of your brain helps in developing creative solutions as a legal advisor. Biggest professional accomplishment: Surrounding myself with serial entrepreneurs I might have been: as clients who are demanding, inquisitive, I wanted to become a doctor until I had to and brilliant. I learn something new from them take organic chemistry in college and could every day, and they certainly keep me on my not shake my queasiness at the sight of toes. blood.

Surprising advice: Guilty pleasure: The whirlwind of life can easily drown out the Multiple getaways a year with the same important things in need of focus. groups of friends for over 25 years: canoeing, the mountains and Vegas. First job: Delivering the Hastings Tribune and Omaha Favorite getaway: World Herald starting at 11 years old. New Orleans. Hard work in the early mornings pays off in ways other than just financially. The sense of If I had a free month: pride of a job well done is a reward in itself. Throw pots in Shigaraki, Japan, famous for its ceramic kilns since ancient times.

19 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 19 Christine L. Poarch

Poarch Law Firm, Roanoke Christine Poarch owns and manages her own firm, specializing in immigration law. She serves on the board of governors of the immigration law section at the Federal Bar Association and frequently speaks on immigration issues at conferences.

Growing up: movie theatre. I learned that I loved knafeh (a I grew up in Southwest Virginia in a close-knit Lebanese dessert) and discovered the satis- tribe of strong, mouthy women who taught me faction of doing small things well. that righteous anger has its place; and among men, like my father, who taught me the value Most humbling experience: of a solid handshake and a good name. Any and every mistake I’ve ever made, public or private, regarding case management or An important mentor: staff management. I’m sure I’m stronger for Famous person: Dorothy Day. Famous Only to having made those mistakes, but nothing is Me: Sherry, the career coach that I’ve worked more humbling than screwing up. with for more than 20 years. Our work together keeps me accountable and on track with Biggest career challenge: what really matters to me. Not feeling like a horrible mother when I’m lawyering, or a horrible lawyer when I’m Biggest personal accomplishment: mothering. Resilience, because it’s hard-earned through trials and hardship. Best tip for balance: There is no such thing as balance. I have “had Biggest professional accomplishment: it all” but never at the same time. Building a law firm that attracts committed, hard-working professionals who do meaningful I might have been: A writer. work in immigration law, a practice area that requires us all to balance on the legal equiv- alent of a paddle board bucking on choppy, Guilty pleasure: constantly changing water. I work among Little Debbie Christmas Tree cakes. fierce, tireless advocates. Favorite getaway: Prague, Czech Republic

Surprising advice: If I had a free month: My mother told me in sixth grade to take A long international trip with my husband and keyboarding in middle school “in case college kids. doesn’t work out.” She was right. Also, college worked out. You didn’t know: I was born on Christmas Day. First job: I grew up in a trailer park. My parents call it a I worked for an immigrant from Beirut named “mobile home village.” It was a trailer park. Jean at a Lebanese diner behind the Salem

Michael W. Robinson

Venable, Tysons Corner Michael Robinson focuses on business and real estate law, as well as enforcement of intellectual property rights, in Northern Virginia. A past president of the Virginia State Bar, he also chaired the VSB’s Standing Committee on Legal Ethics for three years.

Growing up: I was born in Fredericksburg and grew up in Most humbling experience: Prince William County. Woodbridge was a During trial once long ago, I was struggling to small, outer-suburb of DC. The locale fostered get my expert’s opinions into evidence. Really my love of politics, my a.m. ritual of thoroughly struggling; waiting to hear “overruled” when reading the Washington Post, and, importantly, the judge kept saying “sustained” to every provided a local university and then a local law objection. Thirty minutes of testimony became school that I could attend. an hour or more, and seemed longer. It taught me that sometimes you have to return to An important mentor: basics, and reinforced that, even when you My mentor was Bill Dolan. I clerked for him have done something multiple times, prepare while in law school, both at a small firm and and anticipate. with Venable, joined Venable upon graduation, and practiced with him for almost 30 years. Best tip for balance: He offered great professional advice and Leave your smart phone in the other room opportunities as well as being a great friend. at dinner, and in the car on date nights, at restaurants, kids’ sporting events, recitals, Biggest personal accomplishment: performances etc. Being present isn’t just a Marrying Courtney. Thirty-eight years of mar- physical phenomenon. riage, five children, and still going strong. I might have been: Biggest professional accomplishment: I have no idea; there’s little money in philoso- Certainly I am proud of cases I won, and phy. But film critic sounds like a great career. clients I had the honor of representing. But serving as VSB president holds a very high Guilty pleasure: place in my professional memories. I got to The movies - with a lot of popcorn. work with many talented and committed people to fulfill our responsibility of self-regulation. Favorite getaway: It’s a wonderful profession, and it was a great The Outer Banks; especially in autumn. honor to serve. If I had a free month: First job: I started working at a tropical fish/ Travel and see Kyoto, Tanzania and Tibet. pet store when I was 15, started managing it right after high school, and continued working You didn’t know: there throughout college. I still maintain I have run (and finished) the Marine Corps aquariums and a koi pond. I learned you have Marathon multiple times. I can quote Soren to show up, get along with people and do your Kierkegaard when necessary, but know better. 20 job every day. Page 20 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Congratulations Brian Pitney

VIRGINIA LAWYERS WEEKLY

2019 CLASS OF LEADERS IN LAW

Brian is a shareholder at Sands Anderson and a recognized leader in business law. He focuses his practice on advising clients in the areas of business formations, commercial real estate, commercial transactions, and mergers and acquisitions.

Brian led the ﬁ rm’s Business Group for 12 years prior to being elected by his fellow shareholders to the Board of Directors in 2017.

Despite his demanding law practice, Brian has made meaningful contributions to notable community organizations through his various leadership roles. He currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation and the Cub Creek Foundation.

Congratulations Brian on this well-deserved recognition! Thank you for being a leader in practice, for our ﬁ rm, and in the community.

SandsAnderson.com (804) 648-1636

1111 East Main Street, Suite 2400, Richmond, Va 23219

The Rawls Law Group, Richmond Glen Sturtevant serves as the chairman of the Commerce and Labor Committee and as a member on the Courts of Justice Committee in the Virginia General Assembly. In his law practice, he handles medical malpractice and healthcare litigation.

Growing up: Surprising advice: I grew up in rural Spotsylvania County, but Make your bed every day. Start the day my father commuted to DC every day to with an accomplishment to set the tone for work. Being in a rural, bedroom community being willing to do the grind to get to your of DC had an impact on my perspective goals. on the important balance of dedication and excellence in professional life with the First job: importance of raising my children in the My fi rst job was working as a cashier at the environment best suited for their strengths. local Food Lion. I learned that in all things, patience, kindness, being able to make Biggest personal accomplishment: change will take you far when dealing with My wife, Lori, and I have been very blessed clients, customers, and people generally. to adopt our three children, Ethan (10), Reed (7), and Emily (6). This is obviously Favorite getaway: incredibly personal to us, and it was a long Duck, North Carolina. road to adoption with a few failed experiences that tested our resolve and strength- If I had a free month: ened us. Our greatest blessing in raising I’d enjoy a long weekend and then immedi- our children is our best accomplishment ately be bored for the next 27 days. that remains a constant work in progress that inspires us daily. You didn’t know: I’ve never had a bad experience from grocery store sushi.

Congra tulations to

Elizabeth W. Hanes

on her recognition as a Leader in the Law

Advancing consumer rights nationwide

HAMPTON ROADS OFFICE: NORTHERN VIRGINIA OFFICE: RICHMOND OFFICE 763 J. Clyde Morris Blvd. Suite 1--AA 1800 Diagonal Road, Suite 600 626 E. Broad Street, Suite 300 Newport News, Virginia 23601 Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Richmond,nd, Virginia 23219 757-930-3660 703-273-7770 804-905-9900

22 www.clalegal.com Page 22 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Lorrie Sinclair Taylor

Biberaj, Snow & Sinclair, Leesburg Lorrie Sinclair Taylor is a partner at her Northern Virginia law firm, representing clients in criminal, traffic and domestic relations matters. She also serves as a substitute judge in Virginia’s 20th Judicial Circuit and is a past president of the Loudoun County Bar Association.

Growing up: importance of customer service and being I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, detail-oriented during my time at this office. to Jamaican parents. My community was pre- dominantly African American and West Indian. Most humbling experience: As a young Being raised in this environment instilled in prosecutor, I lost what I considered to be a me a sense of pride, strength, resilience and slam dunk case. I did because I neglected to perseverance. include an important element of the offense.

An important mentor: Biggest career challenge: Howard E. Gwynn, Newport News Common- Taking the leap with my husband to start our wealth’s Attorney. I had the opportunity to do law firm in 2008. Leaving the comfort of a my third-year practice under the leadership steady paycheck and benefits to branch out of Mr. Gwynn. He told me that the prosecutor on our own was truly a challenge for me. We is the most powerful and important person did all this while raising two young sons. in the criminal justice system. After my internship at Mr. Gwynn’s office, I was sold on Best tip for balance: becoming a prosecutor. Take time for yourself! You are no good for anyone else if you are not at your best. You Biggest personal accomplishment: cannot be at your best if you are mentally Graduating from high school and later college drained, tired, and overwhelmed. to the chagrin of the naysayers who predicted that I would become a teenage statistic. I might have been: I would have been an American Gladiator! Biggest professional accomplishment: Receiving this honor! I am humbled to have Guilty pleasure: Watching television. been nominated and selected for this honor as I consider the work that I do to be a part of Favorite getaway: my civic duty and responsibility. I don’t have a favorite place that I like to vacation. I just love to experience new cultures and Surprising advice: see new things. At my law school graduation, my mother told me that I should always remember to “be a If I had a free month: lawyer and not a liar.” (The two words sound A month off with pay? I would take my mother very similar in her Jamaican accent!) In other on a bucket list world tour and fulfill everything words, I should always be a person of integrity. on her list!

First job: You didn’t know: I had the opportunity to participate in a co-op I am an introvert. While in high school, I was program in high school. I worked in a small ranked No. 1 in the nation by USA Today in the law firm after school each day. I learned the Indoor 200m dash.

J. Tracy Walker

McGuireWoods, Richmond Tracy Walker is the managing partner at McGuireWoods, where he is a well-regarded trial lawyer representing some of the world’s largest automakers. He is a Fellow of the Virginia Law Foundation and serves on the board of the John Mar- shall Foundation. Growing up: Most humbling experience: I grew up in Albemarle County. Growing up I’ve made many mistakes and try to learn from there fostered my love of the outdoors and all of them, but then I try to put them behind instilled in me the importance of hard work me and move on. I believe that resilience is and deriving satisfaction from a job well done, critically important to a long career. whatever that job might be. Biggest career challenge: An important mentor: Mike Smith, David Assuming the role of managing partner at my Harless, Orran Brown and Craig Merritt, each firm. Running a law firm is obviously very differ- of whom helped me tremendously in getting ent from practicing law. It’s a work in progress. my career off on a solid footing. When I later joined McGuireWoods, I worked with Rosewell Best tip for balance: Page, Anne Whittemore and other equally Practicing law is incredibly demanding, but if outstanding lawyers. you love what you do, that side of the equation is easier. The harder part for me is putting my Biggest personal accomplishment: I’ve work down and being present with my family. been happily married for nearly 30 years. My wife and I are the proud parents of two daugh- I might have been: My undergraduate degree ters, ages 23 and 25. They’re bright, beautiful is in mechanical engineering. Most likely I young women. would’ve ended up in an engineering field if I had not gone to law school. Biggest professional accomplishment: I love being a lawyer, and I’ve been blessed to Guilty pleasure: I love watching college practice law with some of the best lawyers in sports and I love watching golf, but I don’t play the country. golf.

Surprising advice: Read a good book at least Favorite getaway: I’ve been traveling for once a month. I later recognized that apart work for over 20 years. If I have down time, my from the simple joy of reading good books, favorite place to be is at home. being well-read is a foundation of being a good lawyer. If I had a free month: Realistically, I would probably spend the month working around my First job: I worked for a neighbor who had a house and catching up on reading. Someday, side business baling hay for local horse farms I hope to go to a month-long course at a when I was 15. It was physically demanding culinary institute. work. It was a great lesson in the value of hard work. You didn’t know: I have taken up beekeeping and, now that my girls are grown, I recently purchased my first motorcycle, a 1961 BMW. 23 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 23 Kathleen Grace Walsh

Law Office of Kathleen Grace Walsh, Occoquan Kathleen Walsh, who has more than 30 years’ litigation experience, is a solo practitioner specializing in workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability and personal injury. She’s the past-president of the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission Inn of Court.

Growing up: I grew up in New Jersey, the oldest of five Most humbling experience: children. Although we did not have a lot of ma- Having a jury come back with a defense ver- terial wealth, my parents were hard workers dict after a week-long med mal trial over the and extended family was a big part of my life. death of a 6-month-old. I learned the importance of hard work and family, lessons that have served me well. Biggest career challenge: Having the confidence to start my own firm. An important mentor: James Swiger. I clerked for Jim during law Best tip for balance: school. He is an excellent lawyer and taught Maintain a strong circle of friends. You will me how important it was for people with no not have friends for long if you don’t make power to have access to quality representa- time for them. tion. I might have been: Biggest personal accomplishment: A teacher. I think teachers have an amazing Raising three great kids. Raising kids is hard, opportunity to make a difference in children’s being fortunate enough to have them turn out lives. OK is a combination of luck, environment and hard work. Guilty pleasure: Red wine. Biggest professional accomplishment: Successfully running my firm for 19 years and Favorite getaway: successfully representing hundreds and hun- Once did a trip from the Grand Canyon, to dreds of injured workers and being part of the Lake Powell, to Bryce and then Zion. Amaz- EC of the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Inn ing. of Court. It’s rewarding to work with both sides of the bar to make the practice better for all. If I had a free month: Spend it in France and try and learn the Surprising advice: language. If you never lose a case, you are not trying enough cases. You didn’t know: I was the assistant swim coach for our First job: neighborhood swim team for 15 years. I am a I was a page at the local library. I learned that cancer survivor. I hated shelving books.

Jeremy P. White

Virginia Legal Aid Society, Lynchburg Jeremy White co-chairs the Consumer and Housing Practice Group in the Lynchburg office of the Virginia Legal Aid Soci- ety. In addition to his legal work, he often provides classes to help people transition back into society after incarceration.

Growing up: Most humbling experience: Growing up we moved around a lot but I went There have been a few clients who have been through middle school and high school in so grateful for my help, but it is often in the South Dakota. I still enjoy open spaces and most basic of advice cases instead of the snow! bigger results for clients. I have learned that reaching out authentically to someone may be An important mentor: the most important thing I do for a client. Henry Woodward, the long-time legal aid attorney in Roanoke, has often provided a voice Biggest career challenge: of experience and wisdom for me. His words I have been challenged the most to know that and practice gave me a model of a thoughtful, I’m not defined by the results of a case. I want effective attorney to follow. to bring my best for my client, but also knowing results will vary from case to case. Biggest personal accomplishment: Making space to connect with the hearts of Best tip for balance: my wife and kids because those are my most Most days, most times, the work will be there important relationships and where I want to the next day and it will keep until then. bring my best energy. I might have been: Biggest professional accomplishment: When it came down to school choices I want- Having a career representing low-income cli- ed to either go into law or psychology. ents because they are fighters and survivors and have taught me so much. Guilty pleasure: I enjoy high-quality coffee too much. Surprising advice: You can’t treat the hearts of others any better Favorite getaway: than you treat your own heart. Anywhere in the mountains

First job: If I had a free month: Lawn mowing for a friend of our family. I Hike. Read. learned work ethic and reliability. Most importantly, I learned generosity, as he You didn’t know: often was more generous than the work war- I enjoy encouraging people on life’s journey. I ranted and he would buy ice cream or a cold enjoy building and woodworking. drink for me on a hot day. In-House Leaders

25 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 25 Joseph H. Carpenter IV

Norfolk Southern Corporation, Norfolk After joining Norfolk Southern 15 years ago, Joe Carpenter now serves as senior general counsel over legal claims company-wide and information governance. He has been active in the leadership of the Virginia Bar Association and the Roanoke College Alumni Association. Growing up: verdicts, I was convinced that I could not Alleghany County, Virginia. Growing up in a lose. Then I oversaw a large verdict that went small town in rural Virginia instilled the disci- against me in a case that I could have settled. plines of hard work and a positive attitude. I learned the danger of overconfidence. It has certainly, however, also provided a significant contrast to life at a Fortune 500 Biggest career challenge: company in Norfolk. I have overseen a major piece of litigation involving multiple companies for nearly 7 years. An important mentor: The coordination and unique issues have My mentor has Norfolk Southern has been been a lot to overcome. Recently, however, Roger Petersen. He constantly helped me I have been given the opportunity to create strive to be both a better attorney and a better a Legal Analytics team and drive the depart- person. I owe him much thanks for my career. ment and company into the future. This is a daunting undertaking, but one that I am Biggest personal accomplishment: excited to take on. My family and friends. Lori and I have been married for 17 years and have three children Best tip for balance: of whom I am very proud. We have a terrific I think the division is really professional life, group of friends who we truly enjoy spending personal life, and community life. The key time with. to balance is deriving happiness from every aspect of life. Don’t waste time: Enjoy where Biggest professional accomplishment: you are every minute. As a relatively new attorney and employee in 2004, I began working to develop my com- I might have been: A stock broker. pany’s e-discovery and records management policies and procedures. This seemed to be Guilty pleasure: a herculean task for someone who was still I enjoy a good glass of bourbon. learning both the law and the business. Favorite getaway: Disney with the kids. First job: I started working at a golf course as a fresh- If I had a free month: man in high school helping as the first course Travel with the wife and kids while playing as marshal. The following year, I was on the much golf as possible. weed eater all summer. By the time I graduat- ed college, my summer golf course work had You didn’t know: me operating as a head greens keeper. I was Youth Governor for Virginia for the YMCA Model General Assembly in 1995. I was a DJ Most humbling experience: throughout law school, regularly working both Early in my career and on a string of defense weekend nights.

Congratulations to

Mark K. GrGrovesoves

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Don’t miss another issue of the news and analysis that affects you and your clients. 580 E. Main St., Suite 600 NNorfolk,orfolk, VA 23510 (757) 625-6787 subscribe.valawyersweekly.com/H7ZSUB www.glasserlaw.com 1-800-451-9998 (Promo Code: H7ZSUB) 26 Read us online: H7ZSUB Page 26 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Adam Casagrande

ADS Inc., Virginia Beach Adam Casagrande left Williams Mullen in 2016 to become general counsel for a client, ADS Inc., a company that provides equipment solutions to the military, first responders and government agencies. He has served on a number of community boards.

Growing up: Surprising advice: I grew up in Reston, Virginia. Growing up in Nap. Reston in the 1970s and 1980s was very interesting. My generation was the first First job: generation to grow up there; Reston didn’t I was a camp counselor. I think the sin- exist until a few years before my parents gle-most important skill imparted by that job moved there, so the entire town was filled with was teaching me to problem-solve and reach people who had come from elsewhere. The compromise in both mundane and bizarre majority worked for the federal government situations. and families came from all across the United States. That created a wonderful diversity, as Most humbling experience: everyone I knew had a different background Arguing a case in front of a judge who told me and point of view. I did not realize all this at (paraphrase): “Mr. Casagrande, you may want the time; but after growing up and moving to be right, you may think you’re right, you may away I often reflect how different that environ- actually be right somewhere else, but unless ment was compared to the norm and how it I tell you you’re right, you are not right here affected my development. today. And today, you are wrong.” And I lost.

An important mentor: Best tip for balance: Bill Devine, a partner at Williams Mullen. Bill Recognize up front there is no such thing as was my mentor when I was an associate in balance between the two, accept that, work the law firm, and continued on throughout my constantly to maintain both worlds, and when career. His impact was too broad to describe in doubt, remember your personal life is more here, but the single most important thing I important. learned from him was that you can both practice law at a high level and have fun and be I might have been: hilarious. They are not mutually exclusive. A teacher.

Biggest professional accomplishment: Guilty pleasure: I once handled a matter for a client which Watching West Coast NHL games until 1 a.m. resulted in a very favorable outcome - where on weeknights. if it had gone wrong the client would have no choice but to turn off the lights and shut the If I had a free month: doors. I received a thank you note from the Have constant anxiety the entire time that I company signed by all the employees. That wasn’t working. I need to work on that. one I will always remember. You didn’t know: I am an introvert. I ran with the bulls in Pam- plona.

THE VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF DEFENSE ATTORNEYS Congratulates

PHILLIP V. ANDERSON JOHN B. MUMFORD JR. AUDRA M. DICKENS NATHAN H. SCHNETZLER Frith, Anderson + Peake Hancock Daniel & Johnson McCandlish Holton Frith Anderson + Peake – VADA Immediate Past President

VADA congratulates our members who were VADA congratulates our members who were recognized as Leaders in the Law 2019. recognized as Up and Coming Lawyers 2019. We commend them for continuing VADA’s These attorneys will lead our tradition of promoting justice, professionalism, profession in the future. and integrity in our civil justice system. 27 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 27 Andrea Z. Warmbier

NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton Andrea Warmbier, the chief deputy counsel at the NASA Langley Research Center, has prepared and prosecuted more than 160 patent applications and provided guidance on intellectual property issues. She has lectured frequently on IP topics. Growing up: First job: I grew up in the Hampton Roads area of Virgin- My fi rst job was serving as a receptionist at ia. Hampton Roads was a great place to grow Farm Bureau Insurance. I learned that I didn’t up – access to great schools, cultural events want to work in insurance. and diversity, while living in a safe community. Everything you needed was within a 30-minute Most humbling experience: drive, so I was able to experience the cultural The most humbling experience was getting infl uence of Norfolk/Portsmouth, the beaches my fi rst job – the legal fi eld is very competitive of Virginia Beach and the rural countryside of and it is diffi cult to get into a good law fi rm Chesapeake/Suffolk in the same weekend. fresh out of law school, but I was fortunate to fi nd a great position to start my career right An important mentor: after law school. My current Chief Counsel, Pete Polen, is a great leader and has been a wonderful mentor Biggest career challenge: for me. He has constantly looked for oppor- Serving as a supervisor to a diverse group of tunities to advance my career and make me a attorneys. better attorney. Best tip for balance: Biggest personal accomplishment: I have a work hard/play hard mentality – but Working to raising my two sons, Davis and family is ultimately my number one priority. I Weston. We are always trying to do the best am very lucky to work at a place that honors we can to raise them to be kind, hard-working, that mentality, and expects hard work, but and the best that they can be. also recognizes the importance of family.

Biggest professional accomplishment: I might have been: Serving on a litigation team that represent- A veterinarian or a cake baker. ed a generic pharmaceutical company and succeeded in the defense of a Hatch-Waxman Guilty pleasure: lawsuit for patent infringement in both the Chocolate – I have to sneak it in after the kids Southern District of New York and the Federal go to bed. Circuit. We were up against a large New York law fi rm that represented three major pharma- Favorite getaway: ceutical companies, and succeeded. Kahawai, Hawaii – I loved the island – everything was green, lush and beautiful. Surprising advice: If you are comfortable, you’re not growing – If I had a free month: you have to make yourself uncomfortable to Finish my bathroom renovation that I start- grow and learn new things. ed too long ago – and then go on a trip to Australia.

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SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 28 subscribe.valawyersweekly.com Page 28 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law 29 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 29 Nicholas V. Albu

Reed Smith, McLean Nick Albu focuses on commercial litigation, real estate disputes and fiduciary claims as part of his firm’s Global Commercial Disputes Group. Nick joined the board of directors of Homestretch Inc., which works to provide resources to homeless parents with children.

Growing up: thing else that really matters (my family). I moved around quite a bit growing up. Tucson, Arizona, to Los Angeles, and Austin, Texas, to Blue-sky goal: Cary, North Carolina. Moving helped me learn Trick question. I complete a successful career how to adapt to new environments. It also with Reed Smith and go on to tour dive bars gave me opportunities to reinvent myself. across the county as the lead singer in my band. Step 1 and 2 (in that order): learn to An important mentor: sing; form a band. I’d rather recognize an important mentor in my immediate family. In his college years, my late If I had known then: Take Evidence. father made it out of communist Romania, bounced around refugee camps and eventual- Best tip for balance: ly arrived in the States. He became a United When you are slow, put your pencil down, States citizen, a computer engineer, husband breathe and enjoy life. and father. He came here with nothing. But he left here with everything. A truly great Ameri- I might have been: can. Although I was too ignorant to realize it I would have a little sandwich shop. Nothing growing up, my father taught me not to settle fancy. Just good sandwiches. for mediocrity and to always move forward. Pretty good lessons from pretty good guy. Guilty pleasure: Fair question. But not telling. My first job: Manhattan Gourmet Deli. That is where I Favorite getaway: learned how to make the perfect Reuben. The mountains of North Carolina. I’m fairly Extra-thinly sliced corned beef. Don’t be stingy certain there isn’t a better place. with the sauerkraut. And make sure the rye is properly toasted. If I had a free month: I would read. And not on a tablet. I’ve never read a book on a tablet. Most humbling experience: I really enjoy classic American fiction (although Making my first objection in circuit court. At you probably could not tell from my sparse that precise moment, I realized I did not know library), and I really enjoy having a worn book what an objection was. I also learned that I with that distinctive “old book smell” in the should have taken Evidence at W&L. palm of my hand.

Biggest career challenge: You didn’t know: I am very particular about Balance. I am married, and I have two daugh- how things should be done, and I prefer things ters. They all put up with me pretty well. I think being done right the first time. Just kidding, they might even like me. My biggest challenge everyone knows that about me. is finding equilibrium between work and every-

Nina-Alice Antony

Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Charlottesville Nina Antony is a senior assistant commonwealth’s attorney and has already tried more than 130 felony trials. She helped prosecute numerous cases involved with the deadly Unite the Right rally in 2017. She is a past president of the Char- lottesville-Albemarle Criminal Bar Association. An important mentor: progress in your career you’ll learn what works My undergraduate college advisor was a fo- for you and what doesn’t. Don’t internalize rensic psychologist who focused on research what someone else’s opinion may be, espe- involving juvenile justice and violence. He cially as it relates to your trial advocacy skills. influenced my interest in criminal law and Every practitioner is different and has her own first got me thinking about the ways in which style that works for her. our justice system could be better. I keep many of his teachings in mind in my every Best tip for balance: day practice…even though I’m pretty sure he Carve out time for yourself, your family and for would have preferred that I become a defense doing the things that you love. I’m an ex-com- attorney. petitive swimmer and always find that getting in a pool can wash away all of the stress of Biggest career challenge: the day. I had the privilege of leading the prosecutions of the individuals who came to the Charlottes- I might have been: ville community on Aug. 12, 2017, to cause I likely would have become a clinical forensic violence. Each of those cases carried with it psychologist teaching at a college or univer- enormous challenges: dealing with massive sity. volume of disturbing evidence, building trust and rapport with those naturally inclined to Guilty pleasure: be distrustful of the government, all this and Is it too cliché to say binge-watching Netflix? I more while at the same time navigating and also love to stress bake. managing national and international media scrutiny. Favorite getaway: I recently returned from a week-long vacation If I had known then: on the Big Island in Hawaii. I have never been Don’t listen to everything your professors say somewhere so relaxing but at the same time about your strengths and weaknesses. As you so geologically interesting. 30 Page 30 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law W. Thomas Chappell

Vandeventer Black, Norfolk Thomas Chappell practices business law in Hampton Roads. He’s a former clerk for Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn of the Virginia Su- preme Court. Thomas is an Eagle Scout, and remains active with the Scouts of America in the Tidewater region.

Growing up: Blue-sky goal: I grew up in in the West End of Henrico Coun- Being an appellate judge. ty. I was very lucky to grow up in a community with many positive organizations and role If I had known then: models. I was very fortunate to grow up in the To focus more on enjoying the experience and same city with both sets of my grandparents. better recognize the amazing opportunity I had I also had many fantastic teachers—I learned to learn from some of the best legal minds in to write well in high school. Virginia.

An important mentor: Best tip for balance: My first job out of law school was a two-year Make sure to build positive things outside of clerkship with Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn. the law into your schedule. For me, that has I developed a love of appellate litigation been regularly attending church and playing in through that experience. More importantly, an adult volleyball league. Justice Goodwyn modeled excellence as an attorney and character as a person. He treats I might have been: everyone he encounters in the profession and A pastor or a teacher. otherwise with respect and kindness. Guilty pleasure: My first job: Professional wrestling. A few friends in law I was a stock person at a crafts and frames school got me into it and I have found it to be store. I learned some valuable lessons about fun and entertaining. interacting with the public and co-workers of all ages. I also purchased my first car with the Favorite getaway: money I earned that summer. I like going to Williamsburg for William & Mary sporting events and special events such as Most humbling experience: the Grand Illumination. It is never fun to lose a motion or a case. While I definitely try to learn something from If I had a free month: each of those experiences, I also have had to Sleep, relax and visit friends and family who be at peace with the fact that you can do the live outside of the area. best you can and still not have things go your way. You didn’t know: I am left-handed. I love country music, espe- Biggest career challenge: cially from the 1990s. Seeing Garth Brooks Managing stress and keeping a good work-life live was an amazing experience. balance.

Deborah Yeng Collins Sullivan Collins Law Group, Norfolk Deborah Yeng Collins is an employment law attorney where she deals with litigation primarily at the federal level. She’s founded a support group called Work/Life Balance Group for Lawyers, which recognizes the need for wellness in the legal community.

Growing up: Blue-sky goal: I grew up a first-generation American-born Chi- Limit the proliferation of arbitration clauses. nese to parents who were refugees from the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. I learned to If I had known then: appreciate what you have, that nothing is given Don’t get lost in the details. Step back and to you and that you must work hard to earn look at the trees because it will give context what you want. and meaning to the leaves.

An important mentor: Best tip for balance: My high school English teacher, Betsy Morris, The best tip I can share is to share your tips who recruited me for her public speaking club and network because it will give you perspec- and introduced me to the thrill of oratory. And tive. I started a Work/Life Balance group for then my law partner, Ann Sullivan, who has lawyers with young children for this express taught me the power of perseverance and the purpose. It helps to hear that everyone is living importance of self-awareness. your life and experiencing the same push-pull between various commitments and obligations. My first job: I peeled broccoli and did prep work in my I might have been: I would have pursued a family’s Chinese restaurant after school and on higher degree in industrial-organizational psy- weekends, for 13 years. From this experience, I chology, which applies the scientific methodolo- developed the ability to multi-task and learned gy of psychology to the workplace. how to work quickly and efficiently. Guilty pleasure: Most humbling experience: Singing loudly…in the car….in the shower… When I was prosecuting domestic violence in the kitchen. Anywhere really, until someone cases as a Norfolk prosecutor, a Norfolk police (normally one of my kids) shushes me. officer wrote me to tell me that my advocacy in those cases had inspired him to more zeal- Favorite getaway: ously build the record and report on domestic Any all-inclusive resort on a tropical island. violence cases because we were securing convictions and turning fearful victims into If I had a free month: cooperative witnesses. Take piano and guitar lessons.

Biggest career challenge: You didn’t know: My biggest challenge so far was trying my first Despite having lived in Virginia Beach my whole two-week federal jury, while I was still nursing life, I rely on my navigation system to get every- my 9-month-old son. He also became very where, even routes I take daily. My feet shrank ill during the first half of the trial, and I was half a shoe size after my second pregnancy, holding him upright at night to facilitate his which would not have been my top choice on the breathing. post-pregnancy shrinkage wish list. 31 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 31 Diana H. D’Alessandro Pesner Altmiller Melnick & DeMers, Tysons Corner An accomplished real estate lawyer, Diana D’Alessandro began her career with a two-year stint as a Fairfax County Judicial Clerk. She currently is an area representative to the Real Estate Section of the Virginia State Bar.

Looking back: rent – especially when, sometimes, the rent is I spent many weekends with my family visiting simply $50 a month. It certainly puts things in various museums or watching theater produc- perspective. Over the years, I have learned of tions or, my favorite, ice skating in the winter many extraordinary local organizations whose at The National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Gar- mission is to prevent and end homelessness den. At a young age, I was taught to appreci- in Fairfax County and those organizations will ate art, music, literature and dance, and I feel always have my full support. incredibly grateful to have been raised in such a robust and culturally diverse area. Biggest career challenge: Transitioning from a litigation attorney to a An important mentor: transactional attorney. In 2015, I laterally After law school, I served as a judicial law transferred to the firm’s real estate transac- clerk to the Honorable David S. Schell of tional department and significantly reduced the Fairfax Circuit Court for two years. My my litigation practice. I had no experience clerkship had a profound impact on my career. handling real estate transactions, but it was Judge Schell taught me many valuable les- something I was interested in learning, and I sons about the practice of law and how to be had the opportunity to learn from one of the an effective attorney and counselor. top real estate attorneys in our area, Susan Pesner. Susan enabled me to discover an First job: area of law that I truly love practicing, and I My first job was as a retail associate at credit her for much of my success as a real Hecht’s department store in Fair Oaks Mall estate transactional attorney. at 16. I was very shy as a teenager, and the sales job at Hecht’s enabled me to break out Advice to younger self: of my shell a bit. I would tell myself to stop believing that certain grades will dictate success. Success is Learning experience: defined by so much more. I have represented a local housing authority for the past seven years. Among other Best tip for balance: things, the housing authority rents properties Time management, prioritization and commit- to low income tenants. Often times, I meet ment. these tenants in court after I have filed, on behalf of the housing authority, a summons You didn’t know: in unlawful detainer based on nonpayment of I have been baking and cake decorating since rent. This is always a humbling experience. I was about 10 years old, and I have recently Many times, it is difficult to hear the reasons added custom cookie making to my baking why a tenant has defaulted in the payment of repertoire.

Amanda E. DeBerry Boleman Law Firm, Richmond Amanda DeBerry was selected as the Young Lawyer of the Year by the Richmond Bar Association in 2017. A leading consumer bankruptcy lawyer, she coordinates the pro bono efforts for the Boleman firm in Richmond.

An important mentor: Enjoy law school! Soon you’ll have to be an My volleyball coaches. They taught me the adult. importance of being a team player, how to lead and inspire others and the importance of Best tip for balance: your relationships with others. Work with good people doing something that you enjoy. If you enjoy your work, it makes your First job: life happier, and good people want you to be Working for the family business. I learned how happy in your personal life and will encourage important it is to understand every job in the you to take time off and will always have your company, and how it relates to the business back. both day-to-day and to achieve company goals. Guilty pleasure: A humbling experience: Lying on the beach with a beer and a good Filing a pro bono case for a veteran disabled book. by PTSD. I learned how someone may look young and fit, but really be suffering, and the Favorite getaway: help we can provide to them is immeasurable. South Padre Island, Texas.

Career goal: If you had a month off: I would love to start a clinic at a law school to I would travel around Italy drinking wine. help people file bankruptcy for free or reduced costs. You didn’t know: I grew up on a farm in Texas and I’ve never Advice to younger self: had a cavity. 32 Page 32 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Audra M. Dickens

McCandlish Holton, Richmond Audra Dickens is both a top litigator and a community leader. She was promoted to director at her firm in under three years and serves on the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys and ALFA International.

Looking back: dict against my client came back much larger Growing up in Roanoke, I always wanted to than anticipated. It was an admitted liability get away. Little did I know that I would end up case, so I knew I was going to lose, it was just back in my hometown practicing law, finding a matter of how much. I had never felt a gut that Roanoke did, in fact, have a lot to offer. punch quite like that before. I got back to the It was an incredibly tough decision to leave office and told Phil Morris what happened, and Roanoke, and while I love living and working he graciously told me that even the best trial in Richmond, there’s something about those attorneys lose and now that I’d had a big loss, mountains that tugs on my heartstrings. I could handle anything.

An important mentor: Advice to younger self: I was lucky enough to have an externship Have more fun! Once law school is over and in law school with a criminal defense and “real life” begins, you never have enough time personal injury firm in Roanoke with John to enjoy your family and friends. Weber, who is now a juvenile and domestic relations judge. That summer I learned a lot Best tip for balance: about compassion and “doing the right thing,” The best tip I can give is that if there is an even when the right thing didn’t pay much or important event in your personal life, then when other people judged you for providing a put it on your calendar, just like you would a defense to someone society thought didn’t deposition or hearing. Set a reminder and deserve to be defended. then put a hard stop on work when it’s time to leave the office. There are things in life First job: outside of work that should not be missed out My first job out of law school was with a small on just because you needed to send just one firm in the Charlottesville area. I learned the more email. value of hard work, the importance of being more prepared than opposing counsel, and I might have been: how to respond politely when someone mis- I always thought that following in my father’s takes you for the court reporter. footsteps and becoming an educator or following my mother’s lead and entering into A learning experience: the medical field would have been the perfect The most humbling experience I’ve had thus way for me to still have a career that had a far as a lawyer was a jury trial where the ver- positive impact on the community as a whole.

William Dickinson III Kaleo Legal, Richmond Will Dickinson is a leader in IP law and shows that through commitment and enthusiasm every day as Chief Licensing Counsel at his firm. He received the Richmond-Times Dis- patch Readers Choice Lawyer Award in 2015.

Looking back: My biggest career challenge so far has been I believe that growing up watching, and then trying to manage a consistently significant helping, my parents around the house taught volume of work. I have been incredibly fortu- me the value of hard work and taught me to nate to have enough work to fill my plate. The appreciate (and now emulate) their way of tak- challenge so far has been trying to figure out ing a break from corporate/government work how to provide excellent service to numerous and finding joy in the fruits of physical labor. stake holders while still taking care of myself and taking time for my family. An important mentor: My partner, Billy Poynter. When I started as a Career goal: young associate at an AmLaw200 firm, Billy I would like to play a significant role in growing was a young IP partner with a lot of work – the firm and Kaleo Legal’s model. It is one during the recession. So, for obvious reasons that is unique and works well for attorneys I repeatedly bugged him asking for a chance and our clients alike. on his work. After our first project, we worked together for years. Billy was the type of mentor Advice to younger self: who would teach new associates the “why” I would tell myself to enjoy the generous time behind doing something the right way, provide provided in law school to thoughtfully consider guidance on difficult subjects, assist in and debate important issues, legal theories, navigating firm politics, fight for you if needed etc. because in practice of law there will him, and give you as much independence on always be other pressing/urgent needs that a project as you felt comfortable. will fill your time.

First job: Best tip for balance: My first job was working in the ice cream It is tough. My best tip is to block off person- truck at the kids zone in Kings Dominion. That al time on your calendar, just like you would experience taught me two things that I still important professional meetings and don’t remember today: (1) how to make the perfect move them unless it’s absolutely necessary, soft ice cream cone; and (2) that service jobs just like you would an important professional are incredibly hard to do well. Serving people, meeting. whether that is food-service, consulting or the legal profession, is a tough job. But when you Guilty pleasure: do it right and people walk a way with a smile, Doing legal work in a hoodie at home. then it is (usually) worth it. You didn’t know: Biggest career challenge: I live in a log house and I married my high- school sweetheart. 33 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 33 Catherine J. Huﬀ

Gentry Locke, Roanoke Cate Huff defends employers against discrimination and workplace claims in federal and state courts. She has been a Virginia Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for four years and of the Legal Elite in Virginia Business Magazine.

Looking back: time and stress perspective. Now, while I am I grew up in Forest, Virginia. It was a relatively still interested in a lot of things, I try to more small town (though it is growing now) and thoughtfully manage the projects I accept and everyone knew everyone. I had an idyllic say no when I need to. childhood there, and believe that my upbring- ing in Forest made me want to stay in the Career goal: Southwest Virginia area and develop my law To continue to align my legal career with what I practice there. Roanoke has been a perfect fi t am most passionate about in life. because it is a smaller city, but offers so many wonderful opportunities to grow both personal- Advice to younger self: ly and professionally. Take advantage of as many opportunities as you can. In law school, we have blinders on An important mentor: and believe that we are “too busy” to attend I had many mentors/infl uences who impacted a speaker event or participate in certain my career. I believe that in each stage of my activities. life I was fortunate enough to have people around me who infl uenced me in a positive Best tip for balance: way and contributed to my development per- Take your vacations and do not feel guilty sonally and professionally. It is hard to name about it. You cannot be the best lawyer (or per- just one! son) you can be if you refuse to allow yourself personal time for experiences and growth. First job: My fi rst job was as a lifeguard at a local pool I might have been: when I was 15. I learned the value of having I would have worked in some capacity in my own paycheck and what it meant to truly wildlife conservation. I am incredibly passion- be accountable to someone (who was not a ate about wildlife and conservation efforts, sibling or relative). That sense of accountabili- especially for elephants. ty has stayed with me into my legal career. Guilty pleasure: Biggest career challenge: Fantasy football (though the amount of “plea- Learning to say no. I am interested in learning sure” I get depends on how well my team is as much as I can about a variety of different doing). areas of the law and the unique issues and client experiences they all have to offer. Early You didn’t know: on in my practice I said yes to everything – I have a brief cameo in the movie “Borat,” and which was very diffi cult to manage from a my fi rst concert ever was Waylon Jennings.

The Zydron Law Firm, P.L.L.C. and East Coast Trial Lawyers, PLC of Virginia Beach, VA congratulate Andrea Zydron Warmbier, Esquire on her selection to Leaders in the Law. Andrea is one of 33 honored to be selected to the Leaders of the Law out of 31,207 active members of the Virginia State Bar.

NASA Langley Deputy Chief Counsel

34 eastcoasttriallawyers.com zydronlaw.com Page 34 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Del. Jay Jones Bischoﬀ Martingayle, Norfolk A sharp civil litigator, Jay Jones’ powerful oratory skills quickly mark him as a leader in the courtroom. He is also a member of the Virginia House of Delegates.

Looking back: Biggest career challenge: I grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, where I still Creating and maintaining a reputation as a live and now practice law. It is an incredible lawyer separate and apart from my parents, community that instilled in me a sense to who were both practicing attorneys in Hamp- give back and help others. Ultimately, law and ton Roads. politics became my way to try to contribute to making Norfolk a better place. Career goal: I would like to be managing partner of a law An important mentor: fi rm before my career fi nishes. Jeffrey Breit continues to be an important mentor for me. Since my time at UVA Law, Jef- Advice to younger self: frey has continued to offer me guidance and Don’t listen to the chatter of your class- support in my legal and political capacities. I mates – achieve as much as you can, but deeply value that he pushes me to excel in your grades in law school have no bearing on both realms and to constantly improve on the whether you’ll pass the bar and passing the services that I am providing others. bar is no determinant of the type of lawyer you will ultimately be. First job: My fi rst job was as a lifeguard at Ghent Best tip for balance: Square Pool. More than anything I learned the Balance is achieved by always taking a few value of hard work. We weren’t paid much, minutes each day to center yourself and fi nd but we were tasked with saving lives along some time to decompress. How you do this with maintaining the presentation of the pool is up to you – for me, I like to go for a run to and the clubhouse. All of these things contrib- clear my head. uted to the patron experience each day. I might have been: A learning experience: I probably would have stayed in fi nance, I feel like I am constantly humbled as a lawyer although I could envision myself having moved (whether by a judge or opposing counsel with over to an investor relations role by now. a better argument), but the most humbling experience was securing a favorable outcome Guilty pleasure: for a client who was going up against a truly The “Fast and the Furious” movie franchise. bad actor. My client was so grateful for our hard work to achieve a positive result that You didn’t know: they were moved to tears. I will never forget I can juggle (all items must be exactly the that case for the rest of my life. same size!) and I can eat gummy bears and Ben and Jerry’s Half Baked all day, any day.

Would like to congratulate their attorney Jordan E. McKay on his selection to Virginia Lawyers Media’s Up & Coming Lawyers for 2019

310 4th Street NE, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902 P.O. Box 298 | (P) 434.951.7200 | (F) 434.951.7218 | michiehamlett.com 35 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 35 H. Scott Kelly

Troutman Sanders, Richmond

An accomplished business litigator, Scott Kelly specializes in representing clients in national class actions. He has taught classes at the National Association of Professional Background Screeners and is a member of the Federal Bar Association.

Looking back: the discussion was way above my head, and I I grew up in a small town about an hour north offered nothing to the analysis. I learned that of Richmond called Bowling Green. I then providing true value to a case is a process moved to Richmond in my teens. Growing up and skill that must be honed over time. in a small, close-knit town like Bowling Green – where everyone knows everyone – helped Biggest career challenge: me appreciate the importance of community Managing a full plate of cases and work and the value of relying on, and working with responsibilities while raising two kids under 4 others to better that small community. with my wife.

An important mentor: Career goal: I was a law clerk for U.S. District Judge John Lead counsel in a federal jury trial. Gibney, who was – and continues to be – a model of consistent excellence and humility. Advice to younger self: Don’t stress too much, but know that stress First job: will make you stronger in the long run. Tennis instructor at the Westwood Club. It was my fi rst exposure to a job, but also a job Best tip for balance: that required “selling” myself and my skills Wake up early. to club members of all ages. I was tasked with growing a business as a teenager, and I Guilty pleasure: think it helped me realize the level of personal Taco Bell. initiative required to be successful. If you had a month off: A learning experience: I would sleep and go to the beach. My fi rst year at Troutman Sanders involved a number of humbling experiences as a new You didn’t know: lawyer. I remember attending a team meeting I was a music major at UVa. I have two Brit- on a signifi cant pending case my fi rst week tany spaniels who are brother/sister: Charlie at the fi rm. I had no idea what was going on, and Maggie.

Congratulations

Up & Coming Lawyer

Richmond: Boleman Law Firm congratulates 804.355.2057 Amanda DeBerry on her selection Hampton: as one of Virginia Lawyers Weekly’s 757.825.5577 Virginia Beach: Up & Coming Lawyers of 2019. 757.313.3000 36 www.bolemanlaw.com Page 36 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law Jordan E. McKay

MichieHamlett, Charlottesville

Jordan McKay is an associate at MichieHamlett and thrives in business and securities litigation. He was a Super Lawyers Rising Star for three years and recently served a two-year term on the Charlot- tesville-Albemarle Bar Association board.

Looking back: I grew up in Eden, North Carolina. Eden was Advice to younger self: ravaged economically in the late 1990s and First, I would tell my younger self to take more early 2000s when the textile mills and furni- classes taught by Professor Caleb Nelson. ture factories moved overseas. Growing up in Second, I would tell my younger self to relax Eden taught me about the resilience of people and to enjoy the experience. and the importance of helping community members in need, which is why I strive to Best tip for balance: prioritize pro bono work and make time for I’m still trying to figure that out myself, but—to every person who calls me for help. I may the best of my ability—I try to leave work at not always be able to accept the case, but if I work. Sometimes I’m successful, oftentimes can help by providing a half-hour of my time, I I’m not. My wife insists that I take time off for believe that it’s my duty to do so. at least two vacations in the summer in order to unwind and unplug. An important mentor:

Edward B. Lowry. He is a brilliant attorney, a I might have been: wonderful spouse to his wife, Carolyn, and A history professor. an amazing father to his three children. He goes out of his way to praise his partners and If you had a month off: associates and is always available to provide I would write (or at least start writing) a histori- helpful encouragement and advice. Despite all of his success, he remains grounded and cal biography about William Henry Lewis Jr. He humble. He is simply the kindest human I was among the first African Americans to be know. admitted to the American Bar Association. He had a very interesting personal life and legal Biggest career challenge: career that has been overlooked. Finding my voice and developing my own style. However, with the help of my mentor, Edward You didn’t know: B. Lowry, and my partner, David W. Thomas, I I used to play the cello. In 1994, I cried when have learned to be confident in my analysis, my favorite college basketball team lost in the research and preparation and to advocate NCAA Division I Men’s basketball champion- effectively for my client. ship game (because my wife is the biggest UVa basketball fan and forbids me from utter- Career goal: ing the name of my favorite college basketball Present an oral argument before the U.S. team in her presence, I will not mention the Supreme Court. team name here).

Daniel M. Payne Murphy & McGonigle, Richmond A partner of Murphy & McGonigle, Daniel Payne co-founded the firm’s Innovation Lab, which develops new approaches to legal services through the latest technology. He recently expanded his focus to include litigation in the blockchain industry. Looking back: how important the small jobs really are: I had I loved growing up in Roanoke. I didn’t realize to ensure that the senior partner could focus what kind of an impact growing up in a smaller on his argument rather than worrying about city had on me until I grew up and started whether the documents and exhibits would be spending time in Richmond, New York and ready. D.C. Roanoke made me appreciate the sense of unity in a community that can be missing in Biggest career challenge: bigger cities. Building a book of business is my biggest challenge. An important mentor: Supreme Court of Virginia Justice Donald Lem- Career goal: ons led the John Marshall Scholars program I really admire what our two name partners at Richmond Law my first year. He was so have done at Murphy & McGonigle. They took generous with his time and truly engaged with a huge risk opening their own firm and have us, showing us his passion for the law and found great success in doing things differently sharing lots of advice for students who were than a lot of the firms we compete against. I still dreaming of what their careers might look would like to find success by taking risks and like. He introduced us to so many different innovating. ways to look at the legal industry- from its incredible history to pro bono work to cutting Best tip for balance: edge developments. There is only one way I can balance my A learning experience: professional life and my personal life: my wife. As a young associate, I was fortunate enough I’m fortunate to find time to grow my practice, to be on a team defending clients in bil- spend quality time with the kids and help with lion-dollar RMBS cases. A significant motion the housework, but only because of how much to dismiss arose that was important enough she does to support the kids and me. I don’t that the whole team attended oral argument, know how she finds the time to do everything even me. While I imagined playing a vital role she does including excelling as an attorney at in the oral argument, I ended up being asked the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. to carry boxes of documents in and out of court and arranging our demonstrative exhib- If you had a month off: its during argument. It wasn’t glamorous, but I would love to spend a month in France with it reminded me that there is no such thing as my family and experience it as a local and not “that’s not my job” at our firm. I also learned as a tourist. 37 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 37 Ryan D. Ruzic

Public Defender’s Offi ce, Warrenton

Ryan Ruzic was recently promoted to manage the Public Defender’s Offi ce in Warrenton. He has represented more than 2,000 clients in criminal cases and has won cases before the Supreme Court of Virginia.

Looking back: particularly the fi rst time you do it. I think the I grew up on a horse farm in rural Illinois. A biggest long-term challenge was creating a real benefi t of growing up on a farm is learning mental health court in Loudoun so that people a strong work ethic early. with serious mental illnesses could go to a therapeutic docket instead of a traditional An important mentor: punishment court. I’ve benefi ted from the guidance of many skilled attorneys, but the person I’ve learned Career goal: the most from is Lorie O’Donnell. She hired Shifting the focus of our justice system from me when I moved from the Hampton Public punishment to prevention. We can do this is a Defender’s Offi ce up to Northern Virginia and number of ways, creating more problem-solv- more than anyone else taught me the value ing courts like mental health courts and of mentoring and teaching other attorneys. I drug courts, increasing access to treatment credit Lorie with making me want to be a great instead of incarceration, and reducing the teacher in addition to a great lawyer. punishment cycle of probation.

First job: Advice to younger self: My fi rst job after passing the bar was with Take more legal writing classes. the Hampton Public Defender’s Offi ce. Seeing fi rst-hand the consequences of a justice sys- If you had a month off: tem built fundamentally around punishment, I’ve always wanted to design a class that and not rehabilitation and prevention, showed teaches law students or college students me that indigent defense was a place where I about the criminal justice system by highlight- could make a real impact. ing the areas that are outdated or in need of improvement. If I had a month off I’d probably A learning experience: spend it designing the curriculum and seeing My most humbling experience was the fi rst if I can convince anyone to let me teach it. time I argued before the Supreme Court of Virginia. Fielding rapid fi re questions from the You didn’t know: seven justices was not easy, particularly when I’m a huge animal lover, I grew up with not only your job is to disagree with some of them. horses but multiple cats and dogs. A second thing is that I was hospitalized for months Biggest career challenge: between college and law school due to acute The fi rst time I was doing a sentencing argu- pancreatitis and that brush with death is a ment for a murder case. A human being has large motivator to make a difference while I been killed and moving the conversation past can. that and to the facts in mitigation is not easy,

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Frith Anderson + Peake, Roanoke With a focus on civil litigation, Nate Schnetzler has handled multiple appeals to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. In 2019 he was named a SuperLawyers Rising Star in civil litigation.

Looking back: we knew that the defendant would be subject I grew up in Rockbridge County, which was to a mandatory minimum sentence if con- largely undeveloped and very rural. I grew up victed. I stayed late into the night on the last with 300 acres of woods in my backyard, and day of trial to wait for the jury to return with my closest neighbor was about a mile away. its verdict, and I will never forget hearing the Many of the people I grew up with were farm- word “guilty” echo across that nearly empty ers, and we all have a deep appreciation for courtroom. That young man was younger the land and the outdoors. There is also quite than me by several years, and I knew at that a bit of socioeconomic disparity in Rockbridge moment that he would spend the better part County, which showed me first-hand how hard of the rest of his life in a federal prison. I do some folks struggle just to get by every day. not practice criminal law but that experience You cannot grow up in that environment with- has always resonated with me as a reminder out understanding the importance of compas- of the seriousness of our profession and the sion for others who may be less fortunate. trust our clients place in us every day.

An important mentor: Career goal: . I met retired U.S. Magistrate Judge John F. Retire after working for only one law firm. Forster Jr. (E.D. Ark.) as I prepared to enter law school. He was the first person who called Biggest tip for balance: me after I decided to take a hiatus from law I try not to work late into the evenings often, school after my first semester to pursue an- unless I am travelling, and spend that time other career. He supported my decision then with my family. I try to put my girls to bed and was a strong advocate when I decided to every night I am home. Setting those priorities return to law school to finish my degree. and sticking to them are critical to maintaining balance. A learning experience: During my 3L year, U.S. District Judge Michael You didn’t know: Urbanski presided over a drug conspiracy During my freshman year of high school, I was trial. One of the defendants had multiple prior in a commercial for New York Life. I also love felonies but had never served any significant getting my hands dirty. I’m currently (slowly) prison time. Because of his criminal history, trying to teach myself small engine repair.

Caroline W. Stanton Williams Mullen, Charlottesville Carrie Stanton’s thoughtfulness and transactional legal experience sets her apart as a senior associate at Williams Mullen. She is a member of many organizations, including the Women’s Initiative Steering Committee and the American Bar Association. Looking back: I grew up in Roanoke Rapids, North Caroli- A learning experience: na. Being from a small town in a rural area I am humbled every day by the intelligence had a large impact on me, both in terms of and integrity of my colleagues. This profession how I approach solitude and how I approach provides a unique opportunity to learn some- community. With respect to solitude, as a thing new every day, and my peers’ experience child I spent much of my time outside, and and expertise continually challenge and the freedom to explore and play in the woods expand my own. and in and around rivers, lakes and streams developed in me a lifelong appreciation for Career goal: the outdoors. With respect to community, the I would like to make a meaningful impact on small-town environment emphasized intercon- the professional engagement and well-being nectedness and instilled in me an apprecia- of attorneys. tion for the significance of every person and every relationship. Advice to younger self: I would advise her that the habits created in An important mentor: law school with respect to work ethic, integrity, Dave Dallas and Greg Bishop have been engagement and self-care will carry over into invaluable mentors in my life. From Dave I practice. It is much easier to maintain exist- have learned that a legal career practiced in ing, healthy behaviors than it is to break old a thoughtful, intentional way can actually be a habits and start over. lot of fun. From Greg I have learned the power of positive energy and personal connections. I might have been: A writer. I seriously considered journalism First job: before going to law school. Writing and travel- My first job was at my dad’s law office in ing are two things I love to do, so journalism Roanoke Rapids while I was in high school. I seemed like it could be a perfect combination helped with filing, data entry, bank deposits, of the two. mail, title searches and deliveries. I learned about how a law office works and how it takes You didn’t know: a solid team of great people to make a prac- I once went bungee jumping in Christchurch, tice run effectively. I learned my most mean- New Zealand. During college, as a summer ingful lessons, though, through observing my intern for WHQR National Public Radio in dad, both at work and at home. From him I Wilmington, North Carolina, I wrote and voiced learned what it means to be a true counselor stories for the station’s local broadcast of “All for clients. He is a trusted advisor in every Things Considered.” aspect of his life: work, home and community. 39 2019 Leaders in the Law Virginia Lawyers Media | Page 39 he attorneys and staff of Barnes & Diehl proudly congratulate Ronald S. Evans for being selected as a Leader in the Law for 2019.

Craig joins Barnes & Diehl’s previous honorees Ed Barnes, Larry Diehl, Michael HuYoung, Brian Jones, Craig Sampson and Melissa VanZile as recipients of the Leaders in the Law award.

Barnes Diehl HuYoung Jones Sampson VanZile Barnes & Diehl, p.c.

Richmond/Chesterfield Office: Henrico Office: Hanover Office: Boulders VI Three Paragon Lockwood Business Center 7401 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 200 6806 Paragon Place, Suite 110 9097 Atlee Station Road, Suite 319 Richmond, VA 23225 Richmond, VA 23230 Mechanicsville, VA 23116 Phone: (804) 796-1000 Phone: (804) 762-9500 Phone: (804) 569-5515 Fax: (804) 796-1730 Fax: (804) 762-9654 Fax: (804) 569-5501

www.BarnesFamilyLaw.com 40 A Tradition of Experience and Devotion to Family Law Page 40 | Virginia Lawyers Media 2019 Leaders in the Law