William D. Ashwell
Top rated Civil Litigation attorney in Warrenton, Virginia
Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC
Practice Areas: Civil Litigation, White Collar Crimes, Appellate; view more
Licensed in Virginia since: 2012
Education: University of Dayton School of Law
Selected to Rising Stars: 2017 - 2022 Details
William D. Ashwell is an attorney with Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, law firm in Warrenton, Virginia. A top-rated lawyer, Mr. Ashwell has more than eight years of total legal experience, and he provides exceptional counsel and support to clients throughout Northern Virginia who have legal needs involving any of the following:
- Real estate law
- Land use and zoning
- Criminal law
- Assault & Battery
- Protective Orders
- Family law and divorce
- Wills and trusts
- Appellate advocacy
William D. Ashwell is a career litigator who has built a regional and statewide reputation for assisting clients in the most serious of situations and in high profile matters. A native of Warrenton, Mr. Ashwell has solidified himself as a leader in the field of civil and criminal litigation and beyond. A steadfast believer in giving back to the community, Mr. Ashwell balances his time between his family and giving back to the community that he calls home. A graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and the University of Dayton School of Law, Mr. Ashwell serves Northern Virginia, Piedmont region, and clients statewide, continuing to be a staple of the courtroom.
Mr. Ashwell has also represented clients in criminal and civil matters internationally, including in England and the United Kingdom.
Over the course of his legal career, Mr. Ashwell has achieved considerable success advocating on behalf of his clients while helping them achieve their goals and the favorable outcomes they seek for their serious legal challenges as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. Recognized for his outstanding professionalism and service, he has earned consistent peer rankings as among the top 5% of attorneys in his region, and he has received a 10 out of 10 client rating on Avvo along with the site's Clients' Choice Award.
A leader in his field, Mr. Ashwell has served as adjunct professor at Lord Fairfax Community College, and he has published articles and conducted lectures and continuing legal education seminars across his region on a variety of topics related to land use and zoning, real estate law, legal ethics and other subjects. He also serves on the board of directors of the Fauquier Chamber of Commerce, the Fauquier County SPCA and Experience Old Town Warrenton.
Mr. Ashwell is also an active member of the Fauquier County Bar Association and the Virginia State Bar, among his other professional affiliations. A 2008 graduate of Hampden-Sydney College, he obtained his Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law, and he received a CALI Award for his outstanding achievements with the externship program.
Practice areas
Civil Litigation: Plaintiff, Criminal Defense: White Collar, Appellate, Estate Planning & Probate, Land Use/Zoning, Real Estate: BusinessFocus areas
Appeals, Criminal Law - Federal, White Collar Crime
- 30% Civil Litigation: Plaintiff
- 30% Criminal Defense: White Collar
- 10% Appellate
- 10% Estate Planning & Probate
- 10% Land Use/Zoning
- 10% Real Estate: Business
First Admitted: 2012, Virginia
Professional Webpage: https://www.ashwell.law/attorney/ashwell-william-d/
Bar/Professional Activity:
- Virginia State Bar, 7th District Disciplinary Committee
Verdicts/Settlements (Case Results):
- Stafford Cnty. Bd. of Zoning Appeals v. Grove, 905 S.E.2d 140 (2024). Overview: It was error to hold that a board of supervisors was unable to file a demurrer to a petition for a writ of certiorari. While Va. Code Ann. § 15.2-2314 shielded the board of zoning appeals from being made a party to appeals, it did not prohibit the board of supervisors from filing a responsive pleading to a petition for a writ of certiorari., 2024
- United States v. Bosyk, 933 F.3d 319 (4th Cir. 2019), cert denied, 140 S. Ct. 1124 (U.S. Feb. 24, 2020)(No. 19-860), 2019. Overview: Agent's affidavit supported a reasonable inference that someone using defendant's internet protocol (IP) address clicked on a link knowing that it contained child pornography because the link appeared on a child pornography website in a post unequivocally identifying its contents as child pornography; the IP user clicked on the link the same day., 2020
- Spell v. Commonwealth, 851 S.E.2d 83 (2020) Overview: Because evidence was insufficient to prove that defendant's child was a "child in need of services" as contemplated by Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-371 , defendant's conviction of contributing to the delinquency of a minor was reversed, as evidence failed to prove that the child needed treatment, rehabilitation or services not presently being received., 2020
- St. John v. Thompson, 854 S.E.2d 648 (2021) OverviewHOLDINGS: [1]-The circuit court did not abuse its discretion by ordering defendants, the decedent's neighbor and a trust, jointly and severally, to pay attorney's fees of $108,211 under the Prospect Dev. Co. decision after finding that the neighbor had defrauded the decedent by transferring his firearm collection to the trust because the circuit court had awarded equitable relief by ordering the neighbor to return the firearms or to pay the decedent the value of the firearms; [2]-The circuit court did not commit error by granting relief without the trust having been made a party to the suit because it found that the decedent owned the firearms individually and the record did not support the conclusion that the trust included the firearms., 2021
Videos:
- Firm video., Ashwell & Ashwell, 2024
Pro bono/Community Service:
- Experience Old Town Warrenton, 2023
- St. James Episcopal School, Board of Trustees, 2024
- Mental Health Association of Fauquier County, Governance Committee, 2024
- Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, 2024
- Fauquier SPCA, 2024
Honors/Awards:
- National Business Institute Outstanding Faculty Award, National Business Institute, 2022
- National Business Institute Outstanding Faculty Award, National Business Institute, 2023
Scholarly Lectures/Writings:
- Overview Gain Student Bullying Litigation Insights From the Experts Are you making a mistake that could cost your client their case? In this program, our seasoned practitioners identify all the wrong ways to handle student bullying claims, both from the claimant's and the defendant's perspectives. Review the importance of fully understanding laws governing student bullying, sidestep major settlement and trial landmines, and much more. Hone your expertise in student bullying cases - register today! Discuss the top errors education law attorneys make when drafting pleadings. Find out how to prevent costly discovery oversights. Discover the dos and don'ts of mediation in student bullying disputes. Avoid common mistakes made when taking depositions. Uncover solutions to complex trial issues. Abbreviated Agenda Mistake #1: Inadequate Understanding of Key Laws and Legal Definitions 6 Mistakes Attorneys Make When Preparing Pleadings in Bullying Cases 10 Errors to Avoid When Gathering Evidence and Conducting Discovery 6 Big Mediation Don'ts in Student Bullying Cases 8 Settlement Traps 6 Mistakes to Avoid At All Costs When Taking Depositions 8 Jury Selection and Voir Dire Missteps 5 Examples of Opening Statements and Closing Arguments Gone Wrong Legal Ethics Pitfalls to Avoid, Speaker, Student Bullying Lawsuits: 50 Mistakes Even Experienced School Law Attorneys Make, National Business Institute, 2024
- Overview A Step-by-Step Guide to Handling Probate This practical guide is designed to provide you with detailed knowledge of probate processes and best practices for handling the various issues that may arise. Let our seasoned probate attorneys teach you how to navigate those crucial first steps; handle the personal executive; gather, value and distribute all assets; and successfully complete the final accounting. You will also learn how to anticipate tax pitfalls and handle special issues that may arise. Arm yourself with the foundational knowledge and best practices you need to ensure a smooth administration from start to finish. Register today! Start the case off on the right foot by confidently navigating critical first steps. Advise personal representatives by examining all powers, duties, responsibilities, and compensation guidelines. Gather, value and maintain all assets - and learn when and how to employ a financial expert. Pick up tips for validating, prioritizing, and satisfying creditor claims. Get practical guidance for post-mortem planning, trust administration, and tax hurdles. Discover how to litigate deed contests, lost or contested wills, fiduciary misconduct, and more. Put the decedent's affairs to rest by making distributions, filing the final tax return, and completing the final accounting. Abbreviated Agenda How to Determine Elective Share, Portability and Homestead Allowance Planning Post-Mortem, Trust Administration, and Tax Issues First Steps Educating the Personal Representative Valuing Decedent's Assets Handling Creditor Claims Step-by-Step Ethics Wrapping Up - Closing the Estate Probate Litigation Process, Speaker, Probate Process From Start to Finish, National Business Institute, 2024
- Overview Don't Let Your Mistakes Jeopardize the Case Even experts make mistakes. In this advanced trial program, join us for an exploration of pitfalls that even experienced trial attorneys fall victim to. From weak voir dire questions to lost evidence opportunities and little ways you're hurting your final statements to the jury, get a new perspective and learn how to stop making the same mistakes. Refine your trial techniques - register today! Discover why prejudiced jurors may be slipping through and how to ferret them out better during jury selection. Anticipate cross-examination tactics that are likely to backfire. Explore evidence rules that even trial veterans can't seem to fully wrap their minds around. Review opening statement and closing argument mistakes many attorneys don't realize they're making. Learn how to effectively navigate the ethical gray areas for trial lawyers. Abbreviated Agenda 10 Voir Dire and Jury Selection Mistakes You May Not Realize You're Making 6 Opening Statement Pitfalls Even Trial Veterans Fall Prey to 9 of the Biggest Blunders Attorneys Make During Direct and Cross-Examination 8 Top Overlooked, Misunderstood, and Misapplied Rules of Evidence 5 Trial Motion Mistakes Even the Experts Make 6 Rookie Technology and Evidence Presentation Mistakes Professionals Make 6 Ways You're Unknowingly Damaging Your Closing Arguments Ethics for Trial Lawyers, Speaker, Trial and Error: 50 Mistakes Even Experiences Trial Attorneys Make, National Business Institute, 2024
- Overview Reports, Deposition Tactics, Admission Hurdles, Direct and Cross-Examination Techniques Cases often hinge on expert witnesses, so it is vital to have a firm understanding of the court rules governing their use. Are you strategically using the rules of evidence and procedure to maximize the effectiveness of your experts while discounting the validity of opposing experts' credentials, methodology, and more? In this intensive online seminar, our experienced faculty will share tips on using rules concerning expert witnesses with surgical precision, so you have the upper hand in court. From expert reports to testimony, apply the rules concerning expert witnesses to your best advantage. Register today! Analyze experts' reports to pinpoint mistakes that have case-devastating potential. Get your experts ready for deposition by ensuring they thoroughly understand the deposition procedure and opposing counsel tricks. Locate key documents and other sources of information that can set up opposing experts for impeachment. Get your experts' testimony admitted into evidence by ensuring their qualifications, methodology, and character are all acceptable. Cast doubt on opposing experts in cross examination by highlighting weaknesses in their testimony, the invalidity of their methodology, and more. Avoid ethical pitfalls when communicating with your experts and adverse expert witnesses. Abbreviated Agenda How to Select the Perfect Witness (With Sample Retainer Agreement) Direct Examination: Tips to Make Your Expert Shine Applying the Rules to Expert Reports Preparing Your Expert and Defending Depositions Admission Hurdles for Expert Testimony Deposing the Opposing Expert Cross-Examination and Impeachment Techniques Ethical Considerations for Working With Experts, Speaker, Attorney’s Complete Guide to Experts in Virginia Civil Litigation, National Business Institute, 2024
- Get answers to all your clients' easement legal issues! This essential guide will give you the insight you need to evaluate easements in property transactions, create easements to fix access issues, terminate unwanted encumbrances, and resolve easement disputes. Bolster your real estate legal knowledge and get practical solutions to issues that are bound to cross your desk - register today! Understand the different types of easements and how they impact property rights. Learn how to find out if and where easements exist, even if they are unrecorded or have changed. Discover how easements impact property value and learn how to negotiate a fair price. Find out how to create easements by deed, agreement, and other means. Review the various ways in which property owners or easement holders can extinguish an easement. Hear real-world solutions to easement interference, maintenance squabbles, and other common disputes.This program was designed in conjunction with NBI's esteemed 2023-2024 Content Advisory Committee Member Kimberly Jackson.Abbreviated Agenda Easement Rights and Types of Easements Explained How to Find Easements Easement Valuation and Negotiation Insights Creating an Easement Terminating an Easement Resolving Easement Disputes Legal Ethics, Speaker, Easements: Everything You Need to Know, National Business Institute, 2024
- Overview Refine Your Techniques With Insights From Veteran Litigators Do you sometimes find difficult witnesses slipping from your control during depositions? Have you ever gotten an inaccurate read on prospective jurors during jury selection? Are you taking advantage of all opportunities to get your exhibits into evidence and keep the opposing party's out? Our seasoned faculty will share their time-tested litigation tips and techniques so you can refine your own and overcome key challenges with success. Achieve better case results with these advanced litigation strategies and skills - register today! Reveal powerful questioning techniques you can utilize during your next deposition or cross-examination. Discover ways to get even more value out of expert witnesses. Find out how to ensure dirty litigation tactics backfire on opposing counsel. Overcome key challenges to getting electronic evidence, hearsay statements, and other tricky evidence admitted. Learn how to draw out jurors' hidden biases and attitudes more effectively. Abbreviated Agenda Creative Questioning Techniques: Depositions and Cross-Examination Hearsay, Social Media, Texts, Business Records, and More - in the Trenches! 11 Expert Insights Into Winning the Battle of the Experts Negotiating to Win: Advanced Negotiation Techniques for Litigators Turning the Tables: Tips for Combatting Dirty Litigation Tactics Voir Dire and Jury Selection: Insights From the Pros Legal Ethics, Speaker, Advanced Litigation Techniques, National Business Institute, 2024
- This "a through z" guide to probate is designed to take you from the first days of the estate timeline through all the steps of marshaling and valuing estate assets, locating and paying the creditors, paying the beneficiaries, and laying the estate to rest. You will receive the latest updates on the probate court procedure and tax laws, practical guidance from experienced probate attorneys on using spousal elective share and resolving estate disputes, and sample forms and checklists to speed up the administration process. Build a solid foundation for your probate practice - register today! Learn the procedure, rules and practical steps to effectively administer a probate. Determine what form of administration is appropriate for a specific probate case. Clarify the order of inheritance for an estate when there is no will. Locate assets and obtain ownership documents more easily with a list of local and online resources. Get a complete view of the sequence of events that must happen before the estate can be closed. Identify common actions that trigger malpractice liability and get tips for staying in the clear. Get practical advice for honoring or contesting all claims against the estate. Find new ways to resolve liquidity issues that delay estate closing and final distributions and payments. Learn what common closing mistakes can allow the estate to be re-opened, and how to avoid them., Presenter / Speaker, Probate Process From Start to Finish, Naitonal Business Institute, 2023
- Protecting Your Business, Family and Future Greater Piedmont REALTORS, Presenter / Speaker, Protecting Your Business, Family and Future, Greater Piedmont REALTORS, 2018
- Local Government Law – Start to Finish; Government Attorney Ethics – Protect Your Client and Yourself, Presenter / Speaker, Local Government Law – Start to Finish; Government Attorney Ethics – Protect Your Client and Yourself, Naitonal Business Institute, 2018
- Road and Easement Law A to Z: Establishing Easements; National Business Institute, , Presenter / Speaker, Road and Easement Law A to Z: Establishing Easements; National Business Institute,, National Business Institute, 2018
- Secure Approvals and Ensure Clients Adhere to Land Use RegulationsProfessionals who deal with land use issues must understand and navigate a variety of regulations pertaining to zoning, nonconforming uses, and environmental laws. Federal, state and local laws all come into play in this area, and you must be prepared to deal with the red tape of bureaucracy in order to help clients achieve their desired outcome. Are you ready to represent clients? Join us and build an essential understanding of this complex area of law. Register today! Explore land use controls at the federal, state, local, and private levels. Check government overreach by understanding constitutional protections. Anticipate the impact and liability associated with environmentally-distressed properties. Identify nonconforming uses and other concerns during due diligence. Review steps you need to take to secure variances, conditional use permits, and other entitlements. Build confidence in presenting your client's case during public hearings and appeals., Presenter / Speaker, Take a Comprehensive Look at Land Use Law, Naitonal Business Institute, 2018
- Secure Approvals and Ensure Clients Adhere to Land Use RegulationsProfessionals who deal with land use issues must understand and navigate a variety of regulations pertaining to zoning, nonconforming uses, and environmental laws. Federal, state and local laws all come into play in this area, and you must be prepared to deal with the red tape of bureaucracy in order to help clients achieve their desired outcome. Are you ready to represent clients? Join us and build an essential understanding of this complex area of law. Register today! Explore land use controls at the federal, state, local, and private levels. Check government overreach by understanding constitutional protections. Anticipate the impact and liability associated with environmentally-distressed properties. Identify nonconforming uses and other concerns during due diligence. Review steps you need to take to secure variances, conditional use permits, and other entitlements. Build confidence in presenting your client's case during public hearings and appeals., Presenter / Speaker, Ethics in Land Use Law, National Business Institute, 2018
- Social Media, Texts, Business Records, Expert Witness Testimony and MoreYou can't get your evidence admitted without establishing the proper evidentiary foundations. In this practical online seminar, faculty will teach you how to lay a foundation for different types of evidence and avoid being tripped up by objections opposing counsel will throw your way. Navigate the rules of evidence with confidence - register today! Pick up preparation pointers that will help you avoid troubles at trial. Learn how to authenticate social media posts, texts, emails and other electronic evidence. Find out how to establish a proper foundation for medical records, business records and more. See how to get your expert's testimony in - and keep theirs out. Hear how to best introduce physical evidence at trial. Convince the court that you've satisfied the fairness requirement for demonstrative evidence., Presenter / Speaker, How to Lay a Foundation to Get Your Evidence Introduced; Applying Ethics Rules to Evidence, Naitonal Business Institute, 2018
- Defining Easements and Ethics in Boundary Law; National Business Institute, Presenter / Speaker, Defining Easements and Ethics in Boundary Law; National Business Institute, National Business Institute, 2019
- Contracts, Due Diligence, Construction, and MoreKnowing how to guide your clients through the major milestones of a project is vital to building a lucrative real estate development law practice. Join our experienced faculty as they walk you through the development process with real-world insights, practical tips, and resources. From contracts and due diligence to construction and more, gain the skills you need to keep the project moving, safeguard clients from risk, and save them time and money. Help bring clients' visions to life - register today! Gain tips on negotiating purchase and sale agreements and leases. Use due diligence to protect clients from title, environmental, and other concerns. Structure businesses to enhance profits, limit liability for project risks, and allow for flexibility. Capitalize on incentive programs and private financing opportunities for development projects. Ensure the construction stage goes smoothly and minimize clients' exposure to risks., Presenter / Speaker, Real Estate Development Legal Boot Camp Contracts, Due Diligence, Construction, and More, Naitonal Business Institute, 2019
- A Practical Guide to Land Use and Zoning Approvals and IssuesZoning and land use cases are diverse and numerous, and often completely unique to specific circumstances. This comprehensive guide will give you working knowledge of the regulatory framework and practical tips for approval processes. Speed up the progress and reach successful resolution to any issue that arises. Don't miss this chance to take your land use and zoning knowledge to the next level - register today! Hear how the latest local zoning and land use decisions are re-shaping the practice and learn what you need to do to adapt. Confidently determine which authority is the decision-maker on each unique matter. Explore constitutional limitations on government zoning actions. Walk through the approval processes and get practical tips from experienced practitioners on ensuring compliance and speeding up the process. Master the essential steps of obtaining and retaining conditional use permits. Learn how to amend zoning ordinances and maps. Follow the zoning appeals process step-by-step and get specific advice for top zoning issues. Guard your professional reputation with a legal ethics guide tailored to your practice. Learn how short-term rentals are challenging long-standing zoning regulations and practices., Presenter / Speaker, Land Use and Zoning from Start to Finish: Ethics in Land Use and Zoning Law, National Business Institute, 2019
- A Real-World Application of Evidence to Courtroom EventsThe rules of evidence are constantly evolving in response to court decisions, technological advances in discovery, and changes to various state rules. It can be an onerous task to continuously analyze and apply them to your cases. How confident are you in your skills when it comes to gathering and working with expert witness testimony, email/ESI, and the technicalities of hearsay? Learn from our experienced faculty as they explore key court decisions involving admissibility and practically apply the rules of evidence to common evidentiary challenges you face during litigation. Untangle the intricate web of evidence rules and procedures - enroll today! Gain veteran tips on applying the rules of evidence at each stage of the litigation process, from discovery to trial. Learn how to effectively analyze, authenticate, admit, and exclude the most complex types of evidence. Find out what red flags to look for when handling email and other ESI. Explore hearsay in depth and get a concrete understanding of what constitutes hearsay. Clearly link your evidence to your case with proven presentation skills. Be prepared to argue relevance and get experts and evidence admitted (or excluded) in court., Presenter / Speaker, Handling Email, Social Media and Other ESI; The Rules of Evidence: A Practical Toolkit, Naitonal Business Institute, 2020
- Annual Probate and Estate Administration Conference in Virginia The Latest Information for Handling Trusts and Estates, Presenter / Speaker, Annual Probate and Estate Administration Conference in Virginia, National Business Institute, 2020
- Identify and Fix Discrepancies That Arise During Real Estate TransactionsInaccurate descriptions, inconsistent and conflicting surveys, convoluted plat map designations, confusing historical record issues, and unrecorded easements can pop up at any time during real estate transactions. Are you prepared? In this online seminar, you'll gain real-world insight from veteran attorneys who have worked in the field, have hands-on experience, and know what challenges you'll face. Filled with examples and sample documents, faculty will teach you how to review, analyze and interpret surveys, maps, records, and descriptions in plain English. Gain the technical skills you need to catch errors and handle them before they spiral out of control - register today! Dig into state and ALTA/NSPS land title survey standards and compliance. Discover exactly what you need to be looking for in maps and survey reports. Gain insight on how to reconstruct events from a century ago. Walk through title insurance commitment exclusions, exceptions, and endorsements. Spot and resolve legal descriptions that don't close. Confidently cross-read the survey and title commitment. Learn how to prove/disprove non-recorded easements., Presenter / Speaker, Legal Descriptions, Title Insurance & Surveys in Real Estate Transactions,, 2020
- Challenging or Appealing Administrative Zoning Decisions: What You Need to Know Uncover New Strategies for Appealing or Challenging Decisions, Presenter / Speaker, Challenging or Appealing Administrative Zoning Decisions: What You Need to Know, Naitonal Business Institute, 2021
- Virginia Estate Administration From Start to Finish, Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Estate Administration From Start to Finish, National Business Institute, 2021
- Land Surveys and Legal Descriptions: Everything Paralegals Need to Know, Presenter / Speaker, Land Surveys and Legal Descriptions: Everything Paralegals Need to Know, 2021
- Real Estate Closings from Start to Finish Handle Real Estate Closings with Skill and Efficiency, Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Real Estate Closings from Start to Finish, Naitonal Business Institute, 2021
- How to Lay a Foundation to Get Your Evidence Introduced Social Media, Texts, Business Records, Expert Witness Testimony and More, Presenter / Speaker, How to Lay a Foundation to Get Your Evidence Introduced, 2021
- Resolving Boundary Disputes W. AshwellTypes of boundary disputes• Adverse possession, easements, boundariesObtaining and reviewing boundary evidenceMethods for establishing disputed boundariesParticipating in dispute resolution techniques• Litigation, arbitration, mediation, agreements, title insuranceExamining boundary dispute case studies: exploring techniquesfor resolving sample disputesUnderstanding Utility Easements and Rights of Way W. AshwellCurrent law on utility rights of way• Federal laws and regulations• State laws and regulationsTypes of utilities affected• Electric, water, natural gas, telecommunications, satellite communicationsBasis for and definition of the easementEncroachments and interferencesMaintenanceEnvironmental issuesCondemnation lawCurrent issues involving utility easements, Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Land and Water Law: Ownership and Access, Halfmoon Education, 2021
- Apply the Rules and Maneuver Through the Litigation Process With ConfidenceDon't miss this opportunity to develop practical skills in civil litigation! In this online seminar, veteran attorney faculty will provide you with real-world insights and concrete instruction. From initial filings to trial, uncover best practices that will help you work your way to a favorable case resolution. Learn how to be an effective advocate for your clients in civil proceedings - register today! Hear top words of advice on motions, discovery, jury selection, and other select issues. Discover how to become a successful motion practitioner. Get the evidence you need during discovery and learn how to get it admitted. Learn how to prove the authenticity of social media posts, text messages, and more. Ask the right questions in voir dire to effectively ferret out juror biases and attitudes. Develop your case presentation skills for trial, from opening statements to closing arguments. Examine key ethics traps and receive practical guidance for complying with the rules., Presenter / Speaker, Litigating Civil Cases in Virginia From Start to Finish, National Business Institute, 2022
- Years of Insights Distilled Into One Convenient, Compact CLETransactions, transfers, disputes - numerous situations call for an understanding of property ownership and use rights. This online seminar will teach you the essentials of how title is held, how it can be impaired by encumbrances and defects, and how it is transferred. Build your understanding of all things title with this information-packed crash course - register today! Understand what title insurance does and does not cover. Find solutions to common types of title defects. Learn how to unearth true boundary lines using legal descriptions and land surveys. Examine ways title can change hands, from voluntary transfers to adverse possession., Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Real Property Law: Understanding Title, Transfers, and Encumbrances, Naitonal Business Institute, 2022
- Handling Probate from Initial Notices through the Estate ClosingThis "a through z" guide to probate is designed to take you from the first days of the estate timeline through all the steps of marshaling and valuing estate assets, locating and paying the creditors, paying the beneficiaries, and laying the estate to rest. You will receive the latest updates on the probate court procedure and tax laws, practical guidance from experienced probate attorneys on using spousal elective share and resolving estate disputes, and sample forms and checklists to speed up the administration process. Build a solid foundation for your probate practice - register today! Learn the procedure, rules and practical steps to effectively administer a probate. Determine what form of administration is appropriate for a specific probate case. Clarify the order of inheritance for an estate when there is no will. Locate assets and obtain ownership documents more easily with a list of local and online resources. Get a complete view of the sequence of events that must happen before the estate can be closed. Identify common actions that trigger malpractice liability and get tips for staying in the clear. Get practical advice for honoring or contesting all claims against the estate. Find new ways to resolve liquidity issues that delay estate closing and final distributions and payments. Learn what common closing mistakes can allow the estate to be re-opened, and how to avoid them., Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Probate Process from Start to Finish; National Business Institute, National Business Institute, 2022
- Land Surveys and Legal Descriptions: Everything Paralegals Need to KnowCatch and Resolve Issues Before Property Changes Hands, Presenter / Speaker, Land Surveys and Legal Descriptions: Everything Paralegals Need to Know;, National Business Institute, 2022
- Confidently Advise Clients on Boundary and Easement MattersHow confident are you in your abilities to represent a client who comes to you seeking legal advice or actions regarding a boundary dispute? Are you able to work through common easement issues from creation to termination? Boundary predicaments are the bread and butter of real property practices but are also some of the most complicated cases requiring extensive due diligence. This informative online seminar will review the fundamentals of easements from an expert attorney's view so you can remain up to date. Learn how to evaluate and resolve boundary related disputes using remedies and strategies that will provide your clients with the best outcome. Register today! Understand the differences in easement types and know how to decide which is most advantageous for your client. Effectively draft legally sound easements that will hold up for years to come. Identify options for terminating or releasing easements quickly and painlessly. Advance your knowledge of complicated boundary issues involving water rights, air rights, and conservation easements. Know the first steps to take when a boundary dispute develops. Utilize in court the most common forms of boundary evidence that proves property ownership and boundary lines. Master the boundary dispute litigation process including discovery and using pertinent experts. Review how to remain ethical during quiet title actions., Presenter / Speaker, Resolving Boundary Disputes in Virginia, National Business Institute, 2022
- Join our experienced faculty as they walk you through this 2023 civil trial guide aimed to inform you of new tools, techniques, and takeaways from the most recent standout courtroom performances. Add to your arsenal in court and adapt your approach to tackle today's challenges. Stay on top and in the zone - register today! Discover the latest takeaways from recent courtroom performances. Know how to ask voir dire questions and effectively draw out juror attitudes and biases. Learn how to overcome evidentiary hurdles for cloud-based technology, social media posts, smartphone messages, and other ESI. Alleviate possible hiccups in the courtroom with effective troubleshooting. Appeal to jurors with effective incorporation of technology throughout all stages of trial., Presenter / Speaker, Civil Trial Guide; Authenticating and Admitting ESI as Evidence and Utilizing Technology in Your Presentation, National Business Institute, 2023
- Forensic Accounting and Money Laundering Detection/Disruption Conferences, Presenter / Speaker, Forensic Accounting and Money Laundering Detection/Disruption Conferences, Florida Atlantic University, 2023
- Dig Into a Property's Ownership HistoryWith real estate transactions, it's important that the title review is done thoroughly. In this comprehensive program, join our experienced faculty as they guide you on reviewing the chain of title, surveys, and more in full. Get practical tips and insights for identifying and resolving deeper issues that may arise - register today! Identify breaks in a chain of title. Learn how to find potential issues that can't be found via a basic title search. Find out how to effectively review legal descriptions, surveys, and plat maps. Discuss pre- and post-foreclosure issues and how they can affect titles. Develop an eye for spotting and resolving problematic liens., Presenter / Speaker, Reviewing the Chain of Title, Legal Descriptions, Land Surveys, and More, Naitonal Business Institute, 2023
- Identify and Fix Discrepancies That Arise During Real Estate TransactionsInaccurate descriptions, inconsistent and conflicting surveys, convoluted plat map designations, confusing historical record issues, and unrecorded easements can pop up at any time during real estate transactions. Are you prepared? In this online seminar, you'll gain real-world insight from veteran attorneys who have worked in the field, have hands-on experience, and know what challenges you'll face. Filled with examples and sample documents, faculty will teach you how to review, analyze and interpret surveys, maps, records, and descriptions in plain English. Gain the technical skills you need to catch errors and handle them before they spiral out of control - register today! Dig into state and ALTA/NSPS land title survey standards and compliance. Discover exactly what you need to be looking for in maps and survey reports. Gain insight on how to reconstruct events from a century ago. Walk through title insurance commitment exclusions, exceptions, and endorsements. Spot and resolve legal descriptions that don't close. Confidently cross-read the survey and title commitment. Learn how to prove/disprove non-recorded easements., Presenter / Speaker, Legal Descriptions, Title Insurance, and Surveys in Virginia Real Estate Transactions, 2023
- Resolving Boundary DisputesPresented by: William Ashwell Types of boundary disputes Adverse possession, easements, boundaries Obtaining and reviewing boundary evidence Methods for establishing disputed boundaries Participating in dispute resolution techniques Litigation, arbitration, mediation, agreements, title insurance Examining boundary dispute case studies: exploring techniques for resolving sample disputes Understanding Utility Easements and Rights of WayPresented by: William Ashwell Current law on utility rights of way Federal laws and regulations State laws and regulations Types of utilities affected Electric, water, natural gas, telecommunications, satellite communications Basis for and definition of the easement Encroachments and interferences Maintenance Environmental issues Condemnation law Current issues involving utility easements Defining Trespass and Adverse PossessionPresented by: Lauren Curtin Defining trespass The evolution of the trespass cause of action in Virginia Potential damages stemming from trespass Reviewing the history of adverse possession in Virginia Maintaining a claim for adverse possession Statute of limitations Elements of a claim Defending against a claim for adverse possession Understanding Riparian Rights and Access to Surface WaterPresented by: Bryan Peeples History and development of riparian rights Determining land boundaries near the water line Determining access rights to surface waters Limitations on rights to surface waters Complying with water quality laws and regulations Understanding Groundwater RightsPresented by: Michael Derdeyn Ownership of groundwater Regulation of groundwater rights Obtaining groundwater rights Well drilling rights: application and permitting process Current issues in groundwater rights , Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Land and Water Law: Ownership and Access, Halfmoon Education, 2023
- Don't Let Your Mistakes Jeopardize the CaseEven experts make mistakes. In this advanced trial program, join us for an exploration of pitfalls that even experienced trial attorneys fall victim to. From weak voir dire questions to lost evidence opportunities and little ways you're hurting your final statements to the jury, get a new perspective and learn how to stop making the same mistakes. Refine your trial techniques - register today! Discover why prejudiced jurors may be slipping through and how to ferret them out better during jury selection. Anticipate cross-examination tactics that are likely to backfire. Explore evidence rules that even trial veterans can't seem to fully wrap their minds around. Review opening statement and closing argument mistakes many attorneys don't realize they're making. Learn how to effectively navigate the ethical gray areas for trial lawyers., Presenter / Speaker, Trial and Error: 50 Mistakes Even Experienced Trial Attorneys Make, 2023
- A Comprehensive Guide to Real Estate Title LawA clear title is the foundation of any real estate transaction. Do you have the necessary skills to shore up critical title issues that undermine transactional foundations? This fast paced, comprehensive title law training will provide valuable information you can use to maximize title protections for your clients. Experienced faculty will take you through a crucible of title commitment analysis, title defect cures, insurance coverage maximization, and more. Arm yourself with cutting-edge title law tactics - register today! Ensure your knowledge of real estate title issues is up to par. Get the latest updates that affect title insurance policies and practices. Be thorough in title reviews - confidently spot issues in land surveys and title commitments. Obtain title insurance endorsements that fit the transaction and provide crucial protections down the road. Efficiently cure title defects when title insurance endorsements are a less than optimal solution. Resolve critical title issues that arise after title insurance policies have been issued., Presenter / Speaker, Title Law Bootcamp, Naitonal Business Institute, 2023
- Real-World Insights on Jury Selection, Evidence, Cross-Examination, and More!Countless hours in building a solid case theme and supporting it with admissible evidence are about to crescendo in the all-or-nothing storytelling contest. Are you ready? In this online seminar, experienced trial attorneys will reveal their hard-won insights and show you how to deliver your side of the case to the decision-makers with clarity, persuasion, and force. Gain the edge with these tried-and-true trial skills - register today! Prepare a trial notebook that provides all the documents and info you need at a moment's notice. Learn how to flush out jurors' true biases and attitudes during voir dire. Discover the recipe for opening statements that resonate with jurors. Get practical pointers on introducing exhibits and responding to objections. Refine your direct and cross-examination skills with tips from veteran trial attorneys. Make the most of your last arguments before the jury head into deliberations., Presenter / Speaker, Virginia Civil Trial Skills, National Business Institute, 2023
- With all of the changes surrounding social media and email, it's critical to get up to speed on the latest rules, procedures and case law. This cutting-edge legal guide will walk you through state processes, procedures and the latest case law while equipping you with handy how-to's and real world examples along the way. Expert attorney faculty, who know the ins and outs of these ground breaking new forms of evidence, will provide practical tech advice you can actually understand and start using right away. From email to Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat, to YouTube, Pinterest and video surveillance, this comprehensive ESI guide will give you invaluable insight into proven ways for preserving, producing, admitting and blocking ESI, Speaker, Real-World Examples, Handy How-to's and Sample Screen Shots: How to Get Your Social Media, Email and Text Evidence Admitted (and Keep Theirs Out), National Business Institute, 2017
- This insightful guide will walk you through the relevant local laws impacting land use and zoning so you can anticipate potential legal issues. Then you will learn how to smoothly navigate the land use approval and permitting process and discover how to effectively challenge an adverse permitting decision, Speaker, Land Use and Zoning: Navigate Land Use/Zoning Regulations, Permitting Issues, Disputes and More, National Business Institute, 2017
Selections
6 Years Rising Stars
- Rising Stars: 2017 - 2022
