FEBRUARY 2018 EVENTS

February 1, 2018 — Community Conversations with Senator Tim Kaine

On Thursday, February 1st, ODBA President and NAACP member, Jane Reynolds, attended Community Conversations with Senator Tim Kaine in Woodbridge, Virginia. Senator Kaine met with about 70 members of the local chapter of the NAACP to mark the beginning of black history month. Senator Kaine is a former Virginia governor, lieutenant governor and Richmond mayor and he will be on the ballot in November for a second term in the U.S. Senate.

Kaine stated to the group that he and Virginia Sen. Mark Warner have been working closely with the bipartisan group of senators over the past recent weekend shutdown to arrive at a deal that reopened the government Jan. 22.

Kaine indicated that Trump was correct about one thing when it comes to DACA: Dreamers are better off with an act of Congress than an extended executive order, which could change at the president’s whim. “For the first time ever, we will have a debate about the dreamers on the floor of the Congress,” Kaine said. “And we will stay in that debate until we can find something that has 60 votes.”

February 4, 2018 — Hon. Angela Roberts Honored as a "Strong Woman in Virginia History"

Judge Angela Roberts speaks at the Strong Women and Men in Virginia History awards ceremony in Richmond Feb. 4. Roberts, a Caroline native who was the first African-American woman to be elected to a judgeship by the General Assembly, was one of this year's nominees.

Judge Angela Roberts stands in her former courtroom at the Oliver Hill Courts Building in Richmond, Va. on March 1, 2018. Roberts was named a “Strong Woman in Virginia History” by the Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy.

Judge Angela Roberts speaks at the ‘Strong Men and Women in Virginia History’ awards ceremony in Richmond, where she was honored Feb. 4.

Read the full story on ODBA's Judicial News page >>

February 5, 2018 — Interviews for the United States Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria Division) United States Attorney

On February 5, 2018, ODBA President, Jane Reynolds, participated with an independent panel (group of 5) interviewing candidates for the US EDVA (Alexandria div) US Attorney position. The panel selected candidates to be forwarded on to Senator Warner and Senator Kaine for further consideration for the position.

February 12, 2018 — Meeting with Delegation in Richmond

On Monday, February 12, 2018, ODBA President, Jane Reynolds, Kiah Spinks and bondsman Stephanie Rogers met with some Senators and Delegates in Richmond Virginia to discuss issues concerning the lack of diversity on the bench in Northern Virginia. The group stayed to watch the House members put forward their legislative initiatives.

February 16-18, 2018 — ODBA Winter Meeting in Virginia Beach, Va — “The Turning Tide In the Law with the Millennial Generation”

ODBA President attended the 2018 ODBA Winter Meeting and Conference chaired by Marcus Scriven with several committee members. The meeting was held at the Founder’s Inn & Spa in Virginia Beach, VA. In addition to offering 5.0 hours of Continuing Legal Education Credits, the ODBA sponsored two special student sessions for undergraduates interested in a legal career and for law students preparing to take the Bar Exam. The CLE’s includes topics on Computer Forensics; Hacking & Wire Fraud; Virginia Case Law Update and Ethics. Simultaneously, undergraduates attended a session concerning admittance into law schools and the intersection of practicing law while operating the business of running a law office conducted by Law School Deans. A record number of students were in attendance and members and guests were entertained by Teens With a Purpose. The teens performance was nothing short of dazzling and breathtaking. Kudos to Dean Michael Hernandez of Regent University School of Law for his hospitality and his focus on property law, race and the law, law and religion, law and public policy, and appellate advocacy. Kudos to Marcus Scriven, his committee members, our presenters, our sponsors and host hotel for one of the best winter conferences of the ODBA.

February 21, 2018 — Potomac View Show

ODBA President Jane Reynolds was invited by Ashla Hill-Rosoboro, to do a taping of the Potomac View to kick off Women’s History Month. Questions were answered concerning advocacy, the ME TOO movement, violence in schools and different associations and organizations. The program will air through the month of March.

February 23-24, 2018 — VSB Council Meetings

ODBA President Jane Reynolds attended the Virginia State Bar Council Meeting on February 23-24, 2018. The meeting kicked off with dinner at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, Virginia. The meeting took place at the Omni in Richmond, Virginia. Several actions were taken at the meeting, which will all be subject to approval by the Supreme Court of Virginia. The meeting was led by our Virginia State Bar and ODBA member, Doris Henderson Causey. The VSB Council voted 55-5 in favor of Legal Ethics Opinion 1750 regarding advertising issues. References to the Rules of Professional Conduct were updated with the current “false or misleading” language of Rule 7.1. Council unanimously approved renaming CRESPA (Consumer Real Estate Settlement Protection Act) to RESA (Real Estate Settlement Agents). Council unanimously approved amendments that added clarity to the definition of Disciplinary Record and define burden of proof in disciplinary proceeds as clear and convincing evidence. The meeting was very productive.

February 24, 2018 — Awards Dinner and Gala at New Hope Baptist Church

On February 24, 2018, ODBA President Jane Reynolds attended the Living Black History Maker Award Dinner and Gala presented by the Seatack Community Civic League. The League honored citywide community service from business and community leaders and pastors and did a historical tribute to the Daisy Chain Social and Charity Club (oldest Black Women’s Social Club in Virginia Beach). The Gala took place at the New Hope Baptist Church in Virginia Beach, Va. ODBA member Marcus Scriven was a sponsor of the event and was also honored. Congratulations to all of the honorees and ODBA member Marcus Scriven for his tireless efforts in and outside of the community.

February 24, 2018 — Regent Law School Black Law Students Association Honors teachers and mentors

ODBA President, Jane Reynolds and members Marcus Scriven and Tameeka Williams \attended The Regent University School of Law Black Law Students Association (BLSA) annual “Making Black History” Banquet. BLSA members honored Professor Gloria Whittico and Wade Berryhill. “These recipients were chosen because they embody the courage, boldness, and community spirit of the Black Law Students Association. They have also been consistent conduits of service opportunities for the student leadership of BLSA, introducing students to other attorneys and judges in order to establish one-on-one mentorship connections and forums from which to glean invaluable wisdom pertaining to the practice of law.” 

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JANUARY 2018 EVENTS

January 6th - Public Hearing with Prince William Delegation
(Delegates and State Senators)

ODBA President and other members attended a public hearing with Prince William Delegation at the McCourt to discuss current issues impacting the county.

January 7th - Meeting with Delegate Elect Hala Ayala of the 51st District

ODBA President and other members met with Delegate Elect Hala Ayala to discuss the judicial vacancy in PWC Circuit Court and to discuss the funding for an additional seat.

January 7th — New Delegation on The Rise

On January 10, 2018, a host of new faces took their seats as the new, diverse freshman class of delegates.

Following the election in November 2017, Democrats picked up 15 seats in the House, with Republicans now having a 51-49 majority. The 19 new arrivals have started making an impact already on the kinds of issues that must be tackled in 2018.

The chamber unanimously elected Del. Kirk Cox from Colonial Heights as the next Speaker of the House of Delegates. Del. Danica Roem (D-PWC) became the first transgender woman elected to the House of Delegates.

Del Dawn Adams (D-Richmond) became the first openly lesbian delegate in the history of Virginia. We have a record number of 24 women now serving in the state legislature.

Kathy Tram was the first Asian American woman elected to the Virginia General Assembly.

Two Latina women were elected to the Virginia General Assembly for the first time ever. Elizabeth Guzman won the 31st District and Hala Ayala won the 51st District. ODBA member Jennifer Carroll Foy also was elected to the 2nd District. Congratulations to the new class of Delegates.

Saturday, January 13, 2018 Swearing in of Governor Ralph Northam

On Saturday, January 13, 2018, Governor Ralph Northam was sworn in as the 73rd governor and Mark Herring was sworn in as Attorney General.

Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax was also sworn in at Capitol Square.

ODBA member Justin Fairfax is only the second African-American to serve as lieutenant governor. Former Governor and Richmond Mayor Douglas Wilder was the first.

We anticipate Fairfax running for Governor after completion of this term but for now, his main responsibility will be to preside over the state Senate and to break ties when needed.

January 19, 2018 VBA Annual Conference

The ODBA sends congratulations to the VBA on yet another hugely successful Annual Meeting. The ODBA members appreciate the VBA's hospitality at their 128th Annual Meeting in Williamsburg, VA, January 18 - 20, 2018 The Meeting was filled with informative CLEs, great food, wonderful entertainment and fun-loving people.

ODBA members were seen throughout the Meeting and enjoyed all events. Members who were seen enjoying the festivities included Justice B. Goodwyn, Sharon Goodwyn, Justice Powell, Darius Davenport, James "Jim" Guy, VSB President Doris Causey, Judge Marilynn Goss, Judge Angela Roberts, Roscoe Roberts, Cynthia Hudson, and ODBA immediate Past President Helivi Holland. Helivi served as the ODBA representative in the absence of ODBA President Reynolds, due to a scheduling conflict.

Pictures of the fun may be found here >

Congratulations is offered to the newly installed President of the VBA, C.J. Steuart Thomas, and new President-Elect Richard Garriott. An expression of gratitude for his service is extended to the new Immediate Past VBA President James "Jim" Guy, who has been an active member of the ODBA continuously for the last several years. A special offer of appreciation is given to VBA Executive Director Yvonne Cockrum for her congeniality and assistance with all the planning.

More congratulatory expressions are given to Judge Angela Roberts for her induction into the VA Law Foundation(VLF) Fellows Class of 2018 and VSB President Doris Causey for her film debut on the VLF "Rule of Law" video at their dinner on January 18, 2018; Helivi Holland on her election to the Board of Governors of the VBA at the Annual Breakfast Meeting on January 20, 2018; and David Mercer on his successful project of the collection of Pre-K books from all VBA meetings during his Presidency for the distribution to the UP's local reading program.

January 20, 2018 Virginia House of Delegates

Although all members of the Virginia House of Delegates were officially sworn in on Jan. 10, 2018, thirteen new members of the Virginia House of Delegates participated in a celebratory swearing-in ceremony in Richmond, Jan. 20, including a diverse group

Northern Virginia representatives to include ODBA member Jennifer Carroll Foy.

January 27, 2018 - Town Hall Meeting w/Senator Scott Surovell
(D-36) and Delegate Hala Ayala (D-51).

On Saturday, January 28th, ODBA president attended a Town Hall meeting in Prince William County, Virginia to hear Senator Scott Surovell and

Delegate Hala Ayala address concerns of residents, review of their legislative agendas and pending bills, the status of current legislation, and answer questions from concerned citizens.

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ODBA December Events

Dec. 1, 2017: VSB President Doris Causey and VBA President David Mercer Speak to the PWCBA

ODBA President attended the PWCBA Luncheon with guest speakers and ODBA members, Doris Henderson Causey, Virginia State Bar President and David S. Mercer, President of the Virginia Bar Association.  Causey and Mercer provided PWCBA with updates on issues of importance at their respective state bar associations.

Dec. 4, 2017:  NOVABAA Interviews Candidates for the PWC CC Judicial Vacancy

ODBA President sat with NOVABAA members and interviewed candidates for the Prince William County Circuit Court Judicial Vacancy.  Several members interviewed for the vacancy, to include two ODBA members.

Dec. 5, 2017: First Day in Practice and Beyond Seminar

ODBA President Elect, Stacy Lee and other members of ODBA hosted a table, provided information and brochures to attorneys that attended the 2017 First Day in Practice and Beyond Seminar.  The seminar offered practice tips on various types of law, law office management and courtroom expectations specifically part together for new lawyers.

Dec. 6, 2017: Northern Virginia Chapter of the VWAA Hosts Annual Holiday Reception

The party was very well attended at the Atrium at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, VA.  Several ODBA members were in attendance.

Dec. 8, 2017: The PWC VWAA Hosts a Christmas Party at the Irving Law Firm, PC.

The party was very well attended at the Irving Law Firm, PC in Manassas Va.  Several ODBAS members were in attendance.

Dec. 11, 2017: EB Officers Honor Election Officers Serving 20+ Years in PWC, VA

ODBA President who is also Vice Chair of the PWC Electoral Board hosted a reception with Chairman Robin Williams,  Secretary Keith Scarborough of the PWC Electoral Board and the Registrar, Michele White.  The group honored all election officers that have served the county for 20 years or more with their volunteer service working elections. Delegate Elect Hala Ayala of the 51st District was also in attendance to salute the officers.

Dec. 12, 2017: Meeting with Delegate Torian

ODBA President and other members met with Delegate Luke Torian of the 52nd district to discuss the judicial vacancy in PWC and funding for an additional judge.

Dec. 13, 2017: NOVABAA/HBA Joint Holiday Party

ODBA President attended the joint holiday party hosted by NOVABAA and HBA at the Sherwood Community Center in Fairfax, VA.  The party was well attended by many attorneys, judges and friends. A good time was had by all.

Dec. 16, 2017: PWC Black Business Expo

ODBA President along with ODBA members Traci Jones and Voneka Bennett hosted an ODBA table at the PW NAACP Black Business Expo. The Expo was held at Ebenzer Baptist Church in Woodbridge, Va and over 60 black businesses were in attendance. ODBA was able to promote the Association and hand out brochures to those individuals that wanted to know more about the Association. A number of potential clients have contacted the ODBA for referrals and have been referred to the appropriate attorneys.  Look for the new referral service to be implemented soon.

On Dec. 19, 2017: PWC Commonwealth Attorneys’ Office Holds Annual Christmas Party

ODBA President attended the PWC Commonwealth’s Attorneys’ Office annual Christmas Party at a firehouse in PWC. The party was well attended, to include many ODBA members in attendance. A good time was had by all.

ODBA HIGHLIGHTS MEMBER KAREN (TURNER) MCWILLIAMS

ODBA member Karen (Turner) McWilliams is the head labor & employment attorney for SAIC. SAIC, which is headquartered in Reston, VA, provides government services and information technology support, www.saic.com. 

Karen also serves on the Board of Directors of the National Capitol Region of YearUp!, www.yearup.org, which provides urban young adults (18-24 yrs.) a chance to close the opportunity divide through training and mentorships. 

Karen is on the campaign steering committee for her alma mater, the George Mason University, Antonin Scalia Law School. Karen is the Eastern Region Parliamentarian Jack and Jill of America, Inc., an appointment she has held since 2017. 

In 2015, Karen was elected the 21st President of the Reston Virginia Chapter of (RVA JJOA). The RVA Chapter hosted the Southern Mothers Cluster Work Day on Saturday, October 21, 2017 which was the largest cluster of Jack & Jill Mothers in the Eastern Region, since the inception of the organization, 

Congratulations Mrs. McWilliams and keep up the good work!

The judicial luncheon was held on this day and hosted by ODBA member, the Honorable Rossie D. Alston , Jr., Judge of the Court of Appeals of Virginia. Judge Alston has graciously served as host of the judicial luncheon a number of times.  He never ceases to amaze us and that is why we seek him out so often. This conference was no exception. Judge Alston’s speech was moving, motivating and entertaining.  ODBA member, the Honorable Marjorie T. Arrington, Judge of the Chesapeake Circuit Court, was wonderful at Mistress of Ceremonies and the Honorable Petula C. Metzler, Judge of the Prince William County General District Court introduced Judge Alston and captured everyone with her wit.  Pastor/Delegate Luke Torian gave the invocation and spoke very highly of Judge Alston.  Last, Judge Alston and ODBA member, the Honorable Janice J. Wellington of the Prince William County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court received the President’s award at the luncheon for their passion to the profession, mentorship, dedication and excellence in service on and off the bench. 

Friday evening, conference attendees were transported to see MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM, a play featuring ODBA member, the Honorable William T Newman, Chief Judge of the Arlington County Circuit Court.  Judge Newman is not only an outstanding jurist but an outstanding actor.  A good time was had by all.  ODBA was able to host the reception at the play and fellowship with Judge Newman and the rest of the actors before and after the play.

On Saturday, June 3, 2017, the Honorable Rossie D. Alston, Jr. and the Honorable David Bernhard of the Fairfax County Circuit Court provided us with an outstanding, first rate seminar on Appellate Practice and Pitfalls.  This was a must see seminar for anyone doing any trial work.  ODBA member, the Honorable Wilford Taylor of the Hampton Circuit Court enlightened us with his jurist savvy and knowledge of the Civil Case Review of the Supreme Court of Virginia.  There is a reason why he is sought out by so many to speak. ODBA executive board member Attorney Darius Davenport also did an outstanding job providing us with information we must know concerning Cyber Security in Law Firms.  Immediately following this CLE was the President’s luncheon.  ODBA lifetime member, the Honorable Angela Edwards Roberts, Ret Judge of the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court was wonderful at Mistress of Ceremonies.  The invocation was given by Attorney Chester Banks.  ODBA member, the Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division was the keynote speaker and also recipient of the President’s Award.  Judge Lee announced that he would be retiring in the month of September and spoke about his journey on and off the bench. Judge Lee also spoke about how he got sick in January 2017 and that is when after speaking with family members, he decided he would retire this year.  Judge Lee is looking forward to enjoying his beautiful wife and ODBA member, Attorney Edna Ruth Vincent (who is also retiring), his children and grandchildren.  Judge Lee’s speech was nothing short of awe-inspiring.  He received the President’s award for his leadership, expertise and willingness to help and mentor others. In fact, he had mentored more than half of the conference attendees to include a number of the judges.  After lunch, Attorneys Christina Parrish and Veronica Brown-Moseley gave us information that all practicing attorneys need to know dealing with the Intersections with Bankruptcy. Even if you do not practice in the area of Bankruptcy, the information intersected with many practice areas.

On Saturday evening, there was a pre-banquet reception.  Members gathered once again to fellowship and toast Doris H. Causey. She was the highlight of the conference.  The banquet started out with a welcome by ODBA member, the Honorable Marilynn C. Goss, Judge of the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, who was also Mistress of Ceremonies.  Greetings were extended by ODBA, NBA, VSB Presidents, VTLA President-Elect and the President of the Urban League Guild of Hampton Roads. The invocation was given by ODBA member, the Honorable Roger L. Gregory of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.  Judge Gregory also received the L. Douglas Wilder Vanguard Award (named after his former partner), which is ODBA’s highest award.  Judge Gregory received the award for his outstanding achievement which exemplifies his role in the forefront of the profession. Judge Gregory’s good friend and ODBA member, Attorney Bruce Sams, did the honors of presenting the award to Judge Gregory. 

The Keynote speaker of the banquet was Cornell William Brooks, President & CEO of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).  President Brooks' speech was inspiring, encouraging, uplifting and stimulating. He talked about his platform and what he had accomplished as President. He spoke about not only how far we have come but how far we have to go. The fight is not over. We all learned something from President Brooks.

ODBA Executive board member Clarence H. Brooks (Lifetime Member/Treasurer) received the ODBA Member of the Year award and ODBA member and Committee Chair, Karl Doss received the Harold Marsh Sr. Community Service Award. The awards given to these individuals were well thought out and very much deserved.  Doris Causey was also recognized as we saluted her as incoming President (the first African-American woman elected) of the Virginia State Bar.  ODBA has many members that are noted as the 1st African American and now Ms. Causey joins that distinguished group of individuals.

The night ended with President Reynolds recapping the events of the conference, thanking ODBA members Committee Co-Chairs S. Howard Woodson (Past President) and Pia J. Miller (Secretary) for a great conference.  A special thank you was also given to those ODBA committee members who graciously accepted the call for help, Clarence Brooks (Lifetime member/Treasurer), Stacy Lee (Lifetime member/President-Elect), Chidi James (Committee Chair/host of Play/driver) and Judge Alston (Judicial luncheon).  Judges Marilynn C. Goss, Marjorie Arrington, Angela Edwards Roberts, Rossie D. Alston, Jr., Gerald Bruce Lee and Roger L. Gregory also received a special note of thanks from the President for always availing themselves without hesitation whenever asked to do so.

President Reynolds acknowledged and thanked non-ODBA members and non-attorneys who helped out throughout the conference with sponsoring the hospitality suite food and drinks, putting the journal and programs together, purchasing some gifts and driving participants to the play: Stephanie Rogers, Candy Fenn, Janet Carr, Johnda Scott Adams and Mario Reynolds.

Thanks were given to our Exhibitors and Vendors: VTLA, The Hat Lady and Sassy’s Gifts. 

This event would not have been made possible with out our Sponsors:  Dominion Energy, Inc., Banks and Associates, McCammon Group, LTD, Virginia CLE, Brooks Law Firm, Bean Kinney & Korman, Gee Law Firm, 24/7 Bail Bonds, Law Offices of J.M. Reynolds, PLLC, Blankingship & Keith, Virginia Barristers Alliance, Inc., South Hampton Roads Bar Association, Asian Pacific American Bar Association (APABA), Northern Virginia Black Attorneys Association (NOVABAA), Bugg Law Firm, Manassas Law Group, The Daughtery Law Firm, P.C., Fullerton & Knowles, PC, Angela Bowser and the Virginia State Bar.

Last, many, many thanks were given to our Event Planner, Courtney Holeman of Your Stylish Affair throughout the conference. Courtney and her team did all that was requested of them and more. Thanks again to Your Stylish Affair for a wonderful conference.

Celebrating the Career of Civil Rights Pioneer Clarence M. Dunnaville, Jr. (Fellow ’13)

Helivi L. Holland elected to serve on the Board of the Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Inc. (LGA)

We are pleased to announce that ODBA Immediate Past President Helivi L. Holland, City Attorney for the City of Suffolk, was elected to serve on the Board of the Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Inc. (LGA) at its Spring Conference held at Wintergreen, April 27 – 29, 2017. 

LGA was founded in 1975 and consists of more than 800 public and private attorneys representing cities, counties, and towns of the Commonwealth as their civil legal counsel.

ODBA Partners with the Virginia State Bar Access to Justice Committee to Host the Bridging the Justice Gap Seminar

SEPT. 12, 2017

The Virginia State Bar Access to Justice Committee and the Old Dominion Bar Association co-sponsored a free seminar – with three MCLE hours pending – called “Bridging the Justice Gap through Pro Bono” on September 12 in Richmond.

The seminar was led by Karl Doss, John Whitfield and Randy Rollins and covered topics including the misconceptions about pro bono, the Rules of Professional Conduct as they pertain to pro bono and the ways lawyers may get involved with helping Virginians of low income and modest means obtain access to justice.

The program was an overwhelming success thanks to our 3 presenters.  There were 68 attorneys in attendance. Thanks to this seminar, we are all more likely to provide pro bono services to indigent clients.

ODBA 77th Annual Meeting

Old Dominion Bar Association held its Annual Meeting at the award winning Embassy Suites Hotel in Springfield Virginia June 1-4, 2017.  “Promoting Excellence, Diversity and Civility in the Legal Profession” was the theme of this year’s Annual Meeting. 

On Thursday, June 1st, the conference started off by ODBA celebrating ODBA’s Executive Board Member, Doris H. Causey, who is now the First African-American Woman elected President of the Virginia State Bar.  The celebration started at 7pm and went until almost midnight.  A number of people came out to celebrate Doris to include many judges and politicians.  ODBA member, the Honorable Marilynn C. Goss of the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court did the honors of introducing our new President of the VSB and her very good friend, Doris H. Causey.

On Friday, June 2nd, after a welcome from Jane Reynolds (ODBA President), Kevin Judd (NBA President), Michael Robinson (VSB President), Bryan Slaughter (VTLA President elect) and Marcus Scriven (Urban League Guild of Hampton Roads President), The Honorable Scott A. Surovell (Senator/38th District) started the day by sharing with us legislative updates.  Senator Surovell kept everyone’s attention with his wisdom and keen sense of knowledge of the updates we need to know.  ODBA member (Ret) Judge Cunningham was also very knowledgeable, informing and entertaining as he presented on the Ethical Advocacy in Mediation. 

Twenty-First Annual American University, Washington College of Law Sylvania Woods Conference Conference on African Americans and the Law

On Tuesday, April 27, 2017, a great time was had at the Twenty-First Annual Sylvania Woods Conference on Africans Americans and the Law at American University Washington College of Law. Congratulations Dean Camille Nelson on another wonderful program and congratulations to all of our Awardees. Sherry Weaver, you will be missed. Your hard work never went unnoticed. Thank you ODBA member Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee for your contributions to our school (presidential appointment and unanimous senate confirmation in 1998). We are so proud of you and your accomplishments.

February 2017 Bar Council Meeting 

The Virginia State Bar Council met in Richmond at the Omni Hotel on February 25, 2017.  The meeting was led by President Michael W. Robinson. 

The council approved the proposed amendments to the Clients’ Protection Fund (“CPF”). The amendments will improve the structure and organization of the rules and procedures and the processing of claims of the CPF. The council also approved the proposed amendments to Rules 7.1-7.5 of the Rules of Professional Conduct that govern lawyer advertising. The amendments are in response to the rise of Internet marketing and communications. All of the proposed amendments will be presented to the Supreme Court of Virginia for its review and approval. 

ODBA President Jane M Reynolds attended the meeting and the Bar Council Dinner at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts on February 24th. For a full report of the Bar Council meeting, please go to:  

http://www.vsb.org/site/news/item/highlights_of_the_february_25_2017_virginia_state_bar_council_meeting

ODBA President attends the Virginia Bar Association Conference in Williamsburg, VA where David S. Mercer was sworn in as the 129th President

Partial story and photo from vba.org >

On January 21, 2017, the Virginia Bar Association (VBA) installed David S. Mercer as its 129th president in Williamsburg,VA. Mercer is a principal of MercerTrigiani, an Alexandria-based law firm.

Three other members of Virginia’s first and largest statewide voluntary organization of lawyers and judges also began one-year terms as officers:

• C.J. Steuart Thomas III of Staunton as president-elect,
  
• Richard E. Garriott Jr. of Virginia Beach as chair of the Board of Governors, and
  
• James Patrick Guy II as immediate past president.
  

Mercer spoke about his excitement to be leading the VBA, an organization that has served so many to include members of the judicial and legislative communities, as well as students and teaching at Virginia’s outstanding law schools. He also spoke about the relocation of the headquarters to Richmond, Virginia called VBA on Main.

During the VBA Annual Meeting on January 19th, our very own immediate past president, Helivi Holland, and ODBA member James (Jim) Patrick Guy, II, were inducted as Fellows in a Virginia Law Foundation (VLF) ceremony. The Fellows of the VLF are recognized as leaders in the profession, in their practices and their communities.

Congratulations to all and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the VBA.

"Making Black History Award" Given to President Holland and Member Scriven

Congratulations is extended to our President, Helivi L. Holland, and our Member W. Marcus Scriven on their receipt of Regent BLSA's Joyce Marie Plemmer Making Black History Award. Attorney Joyce Marie Plemmer was the first black attorney to graduate from Regent University. Last year, the law school recognized her and honored two of the ODBA's Judicial Members, Judges Teresa Hammons and Tanya Bullock. This year's awards were presented on February 26, 2016, in Regent University's Library Atrium at a dinner attended by more than 140 persons, including several ODBA members and our webmaster.

The announcement of the award from the BLSA chapter read that "these recipients were chosen because they embody the courage, boldness, and community spirit of the Black Law Students Association. They have also been consistent conduits of service opportunities for the student leadership of BLSA by introducing students to other attorneys and judges in order to establish one-on-one mentorship connections and by participating in forums from which to glean invaluable wisdom pertaining to the practice of law." 

Pictured are Holland and Scriven and Holland, Plemmer and Scriven. President Holland is the first female and the first black City Attorney for the City of Suffolk. Member Scriven is a sole practitioner with law licenses in Virginia, California, South Carolina and DC.

Congratulations to winners of the ODBA 2015 Scholarship Essay Competition Winners

The ODBA is pleased to extend congratulations to the winners of the Inaugural Scholarship Essay Competition Winners. Entries were received from two of Virginia’s Law School, Liberty University Law School and Regent University Law School.  The winner for Liberty University is L. Hayes Wallace, 2L and the winner for Regent University is Venecia Patterson, 2L. Each winner from the each law school was recognized at the 2016 Winter

 Meeting on January 30, 2016.  The winners received their awards of a plaque and $400 at the Luncheon of the Winter Meeting. 

Additionally, the announcement of the overall winner for law schools in Virginia was shared at the Luncheon.  A special congratulations is extended to L. Hayes Wallace for her award winning essay.  In addition to the previous mentioned award, Ms. Wallace will receive free registration and lodging at our Annual Meeting in Virginia Beach.  Ms. Wallace will read her essay at our annual banquet on June 4, 2016.

A special thanks is extended to our judges for the competition, Justice of the Virginia Supreme Court, S. Bernard Goodwyn; Judge of the Portsmouth General District Court, Roxie Holder; and President-Elect of the ODBA, Jane Reynolds.

Read more about our winners below:

ODBA 2015 Scholarship Essay Competition Winners

Letiequa Hayes Wallace, 2L – Liberty University Law School
and WINNER FOR LAW SCHOOLS IN VIRGINIA

Letiequa Hayes Wallace is a native of New York but has called Virginia her home for the past 15 years. In 2011, she graduated from Hampton University, with a BA in Political Science. Shortly after graduation she worked as an executive assistant to the legal and human resources team at Jefferson Lab before finally pursing her dream of going to law school.  She is currently a second year law student at Liberty University School of Law, in Lynchburg Virginia. During her 1L year she received recognition from the Virginia Law Foundation because of her commitment and  desire of public interest law.

In the summer of her 1L year L. Hayes was fortunate enough to procure an internship at the Pittsylvania County Commonwealth Attorney's office in Chatham, Virginia. During her internship she had the opportunity to contribute and experience first-hand the area of law to which she has such high regards. Upon graduation L. Hayes aspires to pursue a career in criminal law and civil rights advocacy. 

When L. Hayes is not busy studying the law, she enjoys leisure reading, volunteering in her community, and spending time with family, which includes a loving husband and son, as well as friends

Venecia Patterson, 2L – Regent University Law School

Venecia Patterson is a native of Northern Virginia but moved with her family to Memphis, Tennessee at the age of 5. After being homeschooled from second grade through high school, she attended Southwest Tennessee Community College, earning an Associate’s Degree in one year. After graduating summa cum lauded with a degree in Paralegal Studies, she continued her studies at the University of Memphis earning a BS in Professional Studies: Paralegal Services, also summa cum laude. Venecia worked at a large personal injury law firm in Tennessee for a little over four years before applying and being accepted at Regent University School of Law In 2014.               

While in law school, Venecia has enjoyed a variety of experiences, including being a staff editor for the Regent University School of Law Journal of Global Justice and Public Policy, an associate member of the Trial Advocacy Board, membership in several organizations including BLSA and the Federalist Society, and is currently employed as a law clerk for the American Center for Law and Justice.

Old Dominion Bar Association Congratulates the New President of the Virginia State Bar

June 18, 2016

Photo and story by Virginia State Bar News.

Michael W. Robinson, of Tysons Corner, is the Virginia State Bar’s new president. He heads a state agency that regulates and supports 49,000 Virginia lawyers.

Robinson was sworn in June 17 during the VSB’s Annual Meeting in Virginia Beach.

Robinson, a partner with Venable LLC, has been serving as the 19th District representative on the VSB Council and as chair of the Standing Committee on Legal Ethics. He previously served as chair of the Special Committee on Bench-Bar Relations and has been on the faculty of the Professionalism Course.

He also is a member of the Fairfax County Bar Association.

Robinson is a graduate of George Mason University, where he received a B.A. in philosophy. His law degree is also from George Mason University.

His practice focuses on commercial disputes, business torts, and the protection of intellectual property rights.

He is married to Courtney R. Robinson and has five children.

June 2016 - 76th Annual Meeting in Virginia Beach

Old Dominion Bar Association held its 76th Annual Meeting at the Wyndham Virginia Beach OceanFront Hotel in Virginia Beach on June 2-5, 2016, where judges, lawyers, law students and friends from    Virginia and surrounding areas gathered for four days of fellowship, luncheons, meetings, and workshops.

The Conference chairs, Artisha Gregg, Esq., and Kim Crump Esq. did an outstanding job, starting the conference off on Thursday with a Golf Tournament.  The Golf Tournament was well attended with some of the proceeds going to scholarship recipients.

Friday’s activities included continuing legal education seminars and the President’s Luncheon.  Reverend Dr. Steven G. Blunt of First Baptist Church, Mahan Street was the keynote speaker. Holland presented the President’s Award of Merit to our past and current Treasurer, Clarence Brooks in recognition of and appreciation for his hard work, dedication and efficiency in handling the responsibilities of that office. The     seminars continued on Saturday followed by the Judicial Luncheon.  The keynote speaker was the Honorable Raymond A. Jackson of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Judge Jackson enlightened us with his words of wisdom and how to succeed in federal court.   

New officers and executive committee members were elected during Saturday’s business meeting.  The officers are President, Jane M. Reynolds, Esq., who was sworn in by the Honorable Rossie D. Alston, Jr. of the Court of Appeals of Virginia; President-Elect, Stacy E. Lee, Esq., Secretary, Pia J. Miller, Esq., and Treasurer, Clarence H. Brooks, Esq. Helivi L. Holland, Esq. is Immediate Past President.  Additional Executive Committee members are: Doris Henderson Causey, Esq., Darius K. Davenport, Esq., Shari King-Casey, Esq., Kiah D. Spinks, Esq., Bruce C. Sams, Esq., Angela P. Bowser, Esq., Joan Ziglar, Esq., Jordan E. McKay, Esq., Tonnie R. Villines, Esq., Donald J. Gee, Esq., and Leonard L. Brown, Jr. Board members present were sworn in by the Honorable D. Eugene Cheek, Chief Judge of the Richmond Criminal General District Court.

The Honorable Roger Gregory of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit was the keynote speaker for the concluding banquet Saturday evening. Judge Gregory is a past president of the Old Dominion Bar Association, a past rector of and has served on the Board of Visitors for Virginia Commonwealth University, has served on the Board of Visitors of Virginia State University and also as an adjunct professor of Constitutional Law.  He served on the Brown v. Board of Education 50th Anniversary Commission established by the President and Congress to commemorate that landmark decision.  Judge Gregory has received numerous awards, to include the National Bar Association’s prestigious Gertrude E. Rush and Equal Justice Awards and the National Conference of Christians and Jews Humanitarian Award.  He received the Thurgood Marshall Award of Excellence.  He was awarded the William Green Award for Professional Excellence from the University of Richmond School of Law.  Judge Gregory presently serves on the Board of Trustees of the University of Richmond, is an active member of Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Alpha Beta Boule.  Judge Gregory is the only judge to have ever been appointed to the same judicial seat by two presidents of different political parties (Clinton and Bush) and will be Chief Judge July 2016.  Judge Gregory’s speech was informative as well as enlightening and inspirational. We were blessed to have him as our keynote speaker.

we also want to thank the following presidents and ODBA members that joined our conference:

• Michael W Robinson, newly elected President of the Virginia State Bar
  
• James (Jim) Patrick Guy II, President of the Virginia Bar Association
  
• Stephanie E. Grana, President of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  
•  Leonard Myers II, President of the South Hampton Roads Bar Association  
  
• Wayne Marcus Scriven, President of the Urban League Guild of Hampton Roads
  

Members, guests and friends were further entertained with a Liturgical Dance by the 112 M.V.P. Mime Ministry and we were honored with the National Anthem by Booker T. Washington High School Color Guard, Presentation of Colors.

Law Student Letiequa Hayes Wallace, a 2L at Liberty University School of Law, was awarded for her winning essay entitled “Hands Up” by the Honorable Bernard Goodwyn of the Supreme Court of Virginia, the Honorable Roxie O. Holder of Portsmouth General District Court and Jane M. Reynolds, President of the Old Dominion Bar Association, judges of the contest.

The Old Dominion Br Association gave out 3 awards to individuals that continue to go above and beyond what is required of them. Our     outgoing President, Helivi L. Holland, received the L. Douglas Wilder Vanguard Award for her outstanding achievements in the profession; our member, Wayne Marcus Scriven received the Harold Marsh Sr. Community Service Award for his work in the legal profession, community, church and civic organizations; and our member and new Lifetime member, the Honorable Angela Edwards Roberts received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of more than 30 years of service and contributions on and off the bench. She has contributed significantly toward the development of laws and/or legislation, which continue to have a favorable impact upon the community.  Rhonda Spady also became a new lifetime ODBA member.

Congressman Bobby Scott, who represents the 3rd District of Virginia is a member of the Old Dominion Bar Association and was in            attendance for the conference.

On Saturday night, the Bid Whist and Spades contests continued in the hospitality suite until about 3am Sunday morning.  Members still made it to the first business meeting of the new program year at 9am that morning.  The meeting was open to all members and well attended.  Members adjourned to join their guests and families for fellowship  during the Sunday Send-Off brunch.

WT Mason Charity Golf Tournament

Old Dominion Bar Association would like to give a huge thank you to Eva N Juncker of Millennium Diversity Initiative Inc. for organizing the WT Mason Charity Golf Tournament at its 76th Annual Convention on June 2, 2016 at the Virginia Beach National Golf Course in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Without the hard work and dedication of Eva N. Juncker, this event, would not have been possible or as successful.

ODBA and  VSB Pro Bono Webinar: Making the Case for Pro Bono: The Justice Gap, Rule 6.1, and Virginia's New Online Pro Bono Website  

Registration for the VSB/ODBA Pro Bono Webinar is now open. The program has been approved for 1.5 hours of MCLE ethics credit on the topic of Making the Case for Pro Bono: The Justice Gap, Rule 6.1, and Virginia's New Online Pro Bono Website.

This is an ODBA first and let’s show an enormous amount of participation. There is no registration fee to attend but registrants will be asked to certify that they will register for the online pro bono website, accept a pro bono referral from a legal services organization or make a financial donation to a legal aid office.

Please register for Making the Case for Pro Bono: The Justice Gap, Rule 6.1, and Virginia's New Online Pro Bono Website on May 24, 2016 1:00 PM EDT at:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1213912887111718147

Thanks is given to ODBA Member Karl Doss for his leadership in making this webinar available to our members and anyone else interested.

A great time at the VBA Annual Meeting...in spite of the blizzard

With the snow made Williamsburg look like a winter wonderland to all who attended the events of the 126th VBA Annual Meeting from January 21 - 23, 2016. Congratulations is extended to ODBA member "Pete" Johnson, III for an outstanding year as President of the VBA and congratulations and best wishes is extended to ODBA member James Patrick Guy, II as he begins his Presidency of the VBA.

The commitment of comradery between the ODBA and VBA was apparent as President Guy asked ODBA President Helivi L. Holland and her mother Col. (Ret.) Lula B. Holland to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at his swearing-in ceremony.  Additionally, a highlight of the Meeting was the presentation of the VBA's highest award, The Gerald Baililes Distinguished Service Award, to ODBA member Retired Virginia Supreme Court Justice John Charles Thomas.

A hardy expression is extended to the VBA for the great hospitality that was extended throughout the weekend.

2016 Winter Meeting – Wonderful Time in Williamsburg

The 2016 Winter Meeting was absolutely wonderful. 

The time together started with a great hospitality suite reception that LexisNexis helped provide. Cozy with a fireplace blazing, everyone enjoyed the food, drinks and conversation.

Saturday was a full day of discussion, CLEs, eating, laughing with old friends and conversing with new friends.  All 4.5 hours of CLEs received rave reviews regarding the subject matter and the presenters.  The law school students expressed enjoyment with all aspects of the weekend.  Special thanks is expressed to our host, William & Mary School of Law, for their most gracious hospitality.

ODBA Lifetime Member Featured 

Congratulations to lifetime member Judge Angela Roberts for being featured in Richmond Justice. Each week in 2016, this site revealed a new portrait and story about a Richmonder whose life is shaped in some way by the justice system.

ODBA President Featured in NVBCC Business Highlight of the Week

December 13, 2016

View the highlight here >

Lawyer's Weekly recognizes ODBA Member Patice Holland as Up & Coming Lawyer 2016

Patice L. Holland, is the first African-American female principal in Woods Rogers’ Roanoke office  She has a diverse litigation practice and experience. She is licensed in Virginia, Florida and Washington, DC.

Patice is the Roanoke (Va.) Bar Association’s Young Lawyer of the Year for 2016. Virginia Super Lawyers selected her as a “Rising Star” in 2015 and 2016.  In 2014, she was awarded the Rev. F.E. Alexander Award for Excellence in Business by the Roanoke Chapter of the Urban Professional League (UPL).

In addition to her membership in Old Dominion Bar Association, Patice is a member of the American Bar Association, Florida Bar Association, Roanoke Bar Association, Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys and Virginia Bar Association where she is the Transportation Law Section Council, Chair and Membership Co-Chair (23^rd Judicial Circuit). 

Congratulations to Patice in her selection for the first class of Up & Coming Lawyer by Virginia Lawyer’s Weekly.

Old Dominion Bar Association Congratulates the South Hampton Roads Bar Association

June 30, 2016

The Virginia State Bar has named the South Hampton Roads Bar Association (SHRBA) the recipient of the Bar Association of the Year Award.

L Tyrone Myers writes: It was a pleasure to present the South Hampton Roads Bar Association Inaugural Bar Leaders Award to Judge Jerrauld C. Jones of the Norfolk Circuit Court for "Judge of the Year" with the assistance of the President-Elect of the Virginia State Bar, Doris H. Causey. Even more proud as outgoing president of the South Hampton Roads Bar Association to have lead the bar to recognition by the Virginia State Bar as the "Best Local Bar Association in Virginia." Its been a great year. Thank you to the New Journal and Guide for covering our Annual Meeting and Awards Presentation. Thank you God, for everything.

Congratulations to Judge Jones, Doris H. Causey and the South Hampton Roads Bar Association for your hard work and leadership! 

We thank our fellow bar Presidents of the VSB, VBA, and VTLA  and the NBA Region IV Director for attending and providing such warm greetings.  Additionally, we congratulate L. H. Wallace of Liberty University Law School for winning the 2015 Scholarship Essay Competition for all law schools in Virginia.  Venecia Patterson was the winner for Regent University Law School.

Remember that you can make more ODBA memories at the 2016 Annual Meeting being held in Virginia Beach from June 2 – 5, 2016.  Click here to register now >

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

HOST

• College William & Mary School of Law
  
• Dean Davison Douglas & Staff
  

HOSPITALITY SUITE: LEXISNEXIS

SILVER

• Bean, Kinney & Korman, PC
  
• Joe Fernandes, CFP
  
• STUDENT ACCOMODATION
  
• Clarence Brooks, Esq.
  
• John E. Lichtenstein, Esq., President of VTLA
  

PRESIDENTIAL

• Beverly Burton, Esq.
  
• James P. Guy, II, President of VBA
  
• Ternon Galloway Lee, Esq.
  
• Helivi L. Holland, Esq.
  
• Harry M. “Pete” Johnson, III, Immediate Past President of VBA
  
• The Honorable Bonnie L. Jones, Judge
  
• Jane Reynolds, Esq.
  

PREMIER

• The Honorable Marilynn Goss, Judge
  
• The Honorable Roxie Holder, Judge
  
• Stacy E. Lee, Esq.
  
• William T. Mason, Esq.

• Doris Causey, Esq. Col.
• (Ret.) Lula B. Holland
  
• The Honorable Cressondra Conyers, Judge 
• The Honorable Angela Roberts, Judge
  
• Donald J. Gee, Esq. 
• Bruce E. Robinson, Esq.
  
• Earl J. Gee, Esq. 
• Conjo Galloway Whitney
  
• Curtis M. Hairston, Esq. 
• Karla Williams, Esq.
  
• Charlotte Hodges, Esq. 
• Simone T. Williams, Esq.
  
• The Honorable Roxie Holder, Judge
  

Congratulations to Judge Spencer

October 2015

Congratulations is extended to U.S. District Court Judge James R. Spencer who was named the “Leader of the Year” for 2015 in the Virginia Lawyers Weekly “Leaders in the Law” program Oct. 29, 2015.

Congratulations to Judge Jamison

November 2015

Congratulations is extended to General District Court for Richmond, VA, Judge Birdie H. Jamison on her retirement and the unveiling of her portrait on November 20, 2015.

Full statement from Judge Martin Clark in his decision to remove the portrait of General J.E.B. Stuart from the courthouse in Patrick County.

August 2015

On August 19, 2015, I personally removed General J. E. B. Stuart’s portrait from the Patrick County Circuit Court’s courtroom.

This will no doubt anger, perplex and disappoint many residents of our county, perhaps even the majority of people who live here. It will be an unpopular decision in many quarters, especially given that the courthouse is located in a town named in Stuart’s honor. Still, it is my goal—and my duty as a judge—to provide a trial setting that is perceived by all participants as fair, neutral and without so much as a hint of prejudice. Confederate symbols are, simply put, offensive to African Americans, and this reaction is based on fact and clear, straightforward history. Bigotry saturates the Confederacy’s founding principles, its racial aspirations and its public pronouncements. For instance, the Declarations of Causes—the legal and philosophical grounds recited by the Southern states for leaving the Union—could just as easily be called The South’s Demands to Mistreat Black People. South Carolina, according to its declaration, felt wronged because of “an increasing hostility on the part of non-slaveholding states to the institution of slavery,” and, ironically, complained that the federal government had “denounced as sinful the institution of slavery.” Mississippi’s main reason for leaving the Union is unmistakably framed and repeated early and often in its causes document: “Our position is thoroughly identified with the institution of slavery—the greatest material interest in the world.” The Mississippi document goes on to condemn the notion of “negro equality, socially and politically,” and finds fault with Mississippi residents being denied “the right of property in slaves.” Georgia listed its grievances “with reference to the subject of African slavery,” and insisted on its right to hold slaves. The single specific injury mentioned in Virginia’s actual Secession Ordinance is “the oppression of the Southern slaveholding states.” And, finally, lest there be any doubt exactly whyblack Americans might legitimately find the symbols of the Confederacy unsettling, here are the words of the Confederacy’s Vice President, Alexander Stephens, on the subject of slavery and race: “Our new government is founded upon exactly the opposite ideas; its foundations are laid, its cornerstone rests, upon the great truth that the negro is not equal to the white man; that slavery subordination to the superior race is his natural and normal condition.”

I have heard from several of my local friends that people—like myself—who are critical of Confederate symbols need “to read the real history.” I have. I’ve cited it above in black and white from the actual Confederate documents. Virginia Tech historian and Civil War authority James “Bud” Robertson taught his students that “slavery was unquestionably the primary cause of the war.” I’ve read how Confederate flags waived in the galleries after the Virginia legislature passed its racist, embarrassing and unconstitutional Massive Resistance scheme. When George Wallace proclaimed “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever,” he invoked Jefferson Davis, the “Cradle of the Confederacy” and the “great Anglo-Saxon Southland.” It seems pretty apparent how Governor Wallace interpreted the Rebel past. There’s only one “real” history. No group or person has somehow perverted, hijacked or misstated what Confederate emblems represent. From the creation of the Confederacy straight through until today, from Alexander Stephens to Harry Byrd to George Wallace to David Duke, these symbols have always been imbued with the conviction of black inferiority.

Moreover, I’ve never gotten more than mumbles and abstractions when I’ve asked apologists precisely what history I’m overlooking. While the South had other differences with the Union, slavery was at the core of the Civil War, and the South wanted to maintain the subjugation of blacks. It’s a basic narrative if you choose to examine it with an open mind. There’s some focus on economics and much carping about deviation from earlier, underlying Constitutional compacts, but these “states’ rights” assertions by the South are mostly used as predicates to justify and maintain slavery and demand the return of Southerners’ “property” when slaves are discovered in the North. Put differently, the Civil War was about finances and states’ rights in the sense that the departing nation insisted it be allowed to hold and recapture slaves to support its economy. Again, a section from Mississippi’s causes declaration vividly illustrates precisely what economic concerns and what states’ rights were on the South’s agenda: “[Slave] labor supplies the product which constitutes by far the largest and most important portions of commerce of the earth. These products have become necessities of the world, and a blow at slavery is a blow at commerce and civilization.”

Additionally, in the context of the Confederacy, I’m weary of the argument that we shouldn’t remove certain intrusive Civil War symbols because “everybody’s too sensitive and/or everybody is offended by something.” Black men and women have a bona fide, objective, fact-based, historically grounded reason to find Confederate glorification offensive, and almost all of them do in fact take offense.  Me, I’d for sure take issue with the symbols of a nation that believed “slavery subordination to the superior race” was my “natural and normal condition.” African Americans’ distaste for Confederate symbols can hardly be described as an overreaction, contrived or in any way hypersensitive.

The courtroom should be a place every litigant and spectator finds fair and utterly neutral. In my estimation, the portrait of a uniformed Confederate general—and a slave owner himself—does not comport with that essential standard. By way of example, I’ll ask my fellow white Patrick Countians how they’d respond to this scenario: Imagine walking into a courtroom, your liberty at stake, and you discover a black judge, a black bailiff, a black commonwealth’s attorney, a black clerk and a black defense lawyer. You are the only white person there. You peer at the wall, and you see a picture of Malcom X—a Nation of Islam member who preached black superiority and demeaned the white race. What assumptions would you make about that courtroom, the judicial system and the black judge who allowed that portrait to remain on the wall? Would you feel certain that you’d receive fair, unbiased treatment with Malcolm X celebrated and honored in the place where your rights are being adjudicated? I would not, and that’s why General Stuart’s portrait has been removed. Given how fierce and divisive the debate over the Confederate flag has become, it should be obvious that symbols convey powerful meanings to many reasonable people, and we do not need this complication in a courtroom.

This decision, however, does not address another controversial aspect of our courthouse’s history and one of the town’s longstanding practices. For years, various groups have asked permission to appear in the court square, outside, and celebrate certain Confederate events, most notably General Stuart’s birthday. Several years ago, I told the organizers that they could continue to bring and display any of the various Confederate flags, but they were not to fly them on the courthouse pole or leave them behind, nor were they allowed to leave behind any wreaths, objects or decorations containing Confederate themes. This rule was in place well before the horrible church shootings in Charleston, South Carolina, and has nothing whatsoever to do with that awful, heartbreaking event. Needless to say, this restriction was not well received by some members of our community, given that “we’ve always done it that way before.” Notwithstanding how it had always been done before, there are only two flags that should ever be atop what is effectively this county’s flagpole—the American flag and our state flag.

As an aside, it is important to note that both Curtis Spence and Chris Washburn, the main organizers of these events, have always been polite, professional and very courteous—the hue and cry and unhappiness about the ban on flag flying came from other members of our community and never from the organizers. As a further aside, both these men, in my dealings with them, have proven to be solid citizens and completely free of any racial biases or hostilities; their sincere and heartfelt belief is that a Confederate flag is not a racial negative and should not be seen as a racial negative. In this county, a number of other residents—including a few close friends—share that same opinion. I very much disagree with them for the reasons I’ve painstakingly detailed earlier. Their pure hearts and decent intentions can’t trump the Confederacy’s widespread, systemic mistreatment of blacks that is bound up in the flag. This flag was birthed in a nation that insisted it had the right to buy and sell black men and women as if they were doodads and chattel, and earnest, well-meant talk of valor, fate and a Lost Cause will never scrub away those hideous origins.

Despite my disdain for all versions of the Confederacy’s flag, despite the patently offensive character of the these flags, and despite my belief that no one will take us seriously if we continue to insist these emblems represent who we are in 2015, this particular courthouse space—the courtyard—is still the functional equivalent of the town square, a marketplace for speech, ideas and discourse. While we as a legal system and a commonwealth cannot and should not sponsor or endorse what private individuals wish to say, we should also zealously defend their Constitutional right to speak and present their positions. A public space, outside the courtroom, on a weekend or when court is not in session, is a far different creature than the formal place of business for the judiciary. We have had protesters and preachers and charities and politicians, and, yes, people dressed as Confederate soldiers waving a Civil War battle flag all utilize this area—they will all be allowed to return, with the understanding that we as a court system support only their right to speak, not their causes, beliefs, ideologies or missions. While this decision will be thoroughly objectionable to the anti-flag segment of our county, I would suggest to citizens who find any display or perspective troubling that they civilly and constructively stage their own events to present their viewpoints. Minds change and opinions are shaped through education, empathy and compelling argument, not by a court suppressing someone’s right to speech in the most public of forums.

Of course, I realize that my decisions and the actual rulings herein—the permanent removal of the Stuart portrait from the courthouse, the prohibition against running any iteration of a Confederate flag up the courthouse pole, the ban on Confederate articles and memorials after a group has left the square, and the continued opening of the outdoor public square to all comers including those who want to feature General Beauregard’s battle flag—will satisfy virtually no one but will tick off all grades of people.

Finally, I think it’s important to mention my Southern roots and my pride in this region. I’m proud to live in Patrick County, proud to live in the South. I celebrate William Faulkner, Larry Brown and Eudora Welty. I listen to The Allman Brothers and miss B.B. King. I made it a point to meet Dale Earnhardt and get his autograph, I grew up next door to Leonard Wood, and my mother was a Young from Ararat—raised dirt-poor a stone’s throw away from Jeb’s birthplace—who became a magnificent teacher. I caught my first fish in Kibler Valley almost fifty years ago. I’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with Jerry Baliles, Turner Foddrell, Sammy Shelor, John D. Hooker, Ann Belcher and Annie Hylton, Rev. R. J. Mann, Buddy Dollarhite and John Grisham. I’ve witnessed bake sales and fundraisers and pinto-bean suppers bring in five-figure help for Patrick County friends who happened to catch a bad break. My dad and uncle told me stories about leaving these mountains and volunteering to serve in World War II. That’s the South I want to showcase. I’m proud of our music, our food, our literature, our accomplishments in every possible field, our manners and traditions, our sense of connection with our neighbors, our quiet sacrifices, our grit and courage throughout generations, our savvy and intelligence, and the rhythms, feel and strength of this slice of the world. That’s my Southern heritage, and it’s far, far distant from the battlefields of the 1860s.

Doris Henderson Causey named in the ‘Leaders in the Law’ for Class of 2015

August 2015

Virginia Lawyers Media, the publisher of Virginia Lawyers Weekly, has announced the 2015 Class of “Leaders in the Law.”

Now in its 10th year, this awards program recognizes the lawyers across the commonwealth who are setting the standard for other lawyers in Virginia. “Leaders” are recognized for changing the law, serving the community, changing practice, or improving Virginia’s justice system, among other accomplishments.

The ODBA is proud to announce that ODBA Executive Committee member Doris Henderson Causey, Managing Attorney of Central Virginia Legal Aid, is in the Class of 2015.  Doris is a graduate of Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has been an Executive Committee Member of the ODBA for more than two terms.  She has served as the ODBA Secretary and has been on several ODBA committees.  Additionally, Doris recently announced her candidacy for the next President-Elect of the Virginia State Bar.

Doris joins other current ODBA Executive Committee Members of previous classes of “Leaders in the Law” to include ODBA President Helivi L. Holland, ODBA Immediate Past President Vinceretta T. Chiles, Past President Beverly Burton, and Executive Committee Member Roscoe Roberts, in addition to other ODBA members that have been recognized.

Congratulations to Doris Henderson Causey.

ODBA Receives LexisNexis Award from VBA

July 25, 2015

The ODBA graciously and proudly accepted the Virginia Bar Association (VBA) LexisNexis Award at the VBA's Summer Conference on July 25, 2015, at the Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, VA.  This award was presented by VBA President Henry "Pete" Johnson III to ODBA President Helivi L. Holland.

The award was given to the ODBA "on the occasion of their 75th anniversary and in recognition of the ODBA's unwavering pursuit of justice through the rule of law."

Present for this auspicious occasion were some of ODBA newest  members, VBA President Henry "Pete" Johnson, III, VBA President-Elect James Patrick Guy, II and Virginia State Bar President Ed Weiner.

Expressions of gratitude were given to the members of the VBA with special recognition to VBA Executive Director Yvonne McGhee.

 VBA gives ODBA its LexisNexis Award

June 2015

This annual honor, formerly called Michie Honorees, has been presented during the Saturday reception of the VBA Summer Meeting since 1982. The award is given for extraordinary leadership and dedication to the legal profession and public service. This year's honoree is the Old Dominion Bar Association, in honor of the group's 75th anniversary. The ODBA, according to its website, developed out of a need to confront a policy that offended personal and professional duty and  from the need for African-American lawyers to associate for personal and professional growth. The VBA recognition will be bestowed Saturday, July 25, between 6:30-7:30 p.m. at a reception sponsored by LexisNexis.

Previous honorees include George K. Martin (2014), the Honorable William C. Mims (2010), Gov. Timothy Kaine (2006), Judge Robert Merhige (2001), Dean Emerson G. Spies (1985) and Justice and Mrs. Lewis F. Powell Jr. (1982).

75th Anniversary Judicial Luncheon Processional

June 2015

To see practically every one of the ODBA Judicial Members proceed into the luncheon in their robes was a tremendous site.

Special appreciation is expressed to The Hon. Marilynn Goss for coordinating the luncheon and The Hon. Angela Roberts for serving as the keynote speaker.

Bruce Robinson, Esq,. Reappointed as ODBA Representative of VLAS Board

March 21, 2015

On March 21, 2015, the ODBA Executive Board voted unanimously to have Bruce Robinson, Esq. reappointed as the ODBA Representative Board Member of the Board of the Virginia Legal Aid Society (VLAS), Lynchburg, VA. Attorney Robinson’s current term expires on June 30, 2015. VLAS, Virginia's largest society, spanning from Henry County to Suffolk was primarily the creation of the ODBA some 40 years ago by the likes of ODBA past and current members James Ghee, Johnny Morrison, Butch Williams, etc. Under the bylaw, local bar associations from the service area and the ODBA appoint the attorney board members. Non-attorney board members are appointed from community based organizations. Terms are for 2 years. VLAS’s Executive Director, David Neumeyer, was elated to hear of the reappointment.

The ODBA thanks Attorney Robinson for his 25+ years of exceptional service.

Regent University BLSA Black History Banquet Honors Two Judicial Members and ODBA

ODBA was surprised to receive a gold sponsorship certificate at BLSA’s Making Black History Banquet on February 20, 2015, at Regent University School of Law. Several members, including Clarence Brooks, Darius Davenport, W. T. Mason, Judge Raymond Jackson, W. Marcus Scriven, Judge Alfred Bates, and others with dual membership in the Southampton Roads Bar Association, were present filling three tables. Angelina Moyo, Vice Chair of the Chapter, gave thanks for all of the assistance ODBA has given to the BLSA Chapter this year and the student/attorney/judge contacts that ODBA has facilitated.

Judicial members and alumnae of the law school, Teresa Hammons and Tanya Bullock, were recognized along with the first black graduate of the law school, Dr. Joyce Marie Plummer. ODBA congratulates our Judicial Members Hammons and Bullock for their many accomplishments.