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Image source: http://norfolk.photodeck.com/-/galleries/city-of-norfolk-courthouse/-/medias/4709b6d4-634c-434c-9b97-2335ff9fc171-norfolk-courthouse-06-26-18 Author: Andrew Cooper - City of Norfolk photographer

Join the Norfolk & portsmouth Bar Association

The NPBA has served the Legal Profession, the Judiciary and the Public since 1900.

Membership is open to licensed attorneys, law students, legal administrators, and the local military legal community.

Join us

Upcoming events

  • Executive Committee Meeting

    • Wednesday, October 14, 2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • Zoom
    Show details

  • Luncheon - The Hon. David W. Lannetti - “A View from the Bench"

    • Thursday, October 15, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda, 8th Floor, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 19
    Register

    Join us for the monthly Luncheon Meeting on October 15, 2026

    12:00 to 1:00 p.m. - Rotunda

    Free to NPBA Members; $30.00 Non-Members
    Registration includes a boxed lunch and water.

    Topic: “A View from the Bench"

    Speaker:  The Hon. David W. Lannetti


    The Hon. David W. Lannetti

    Norfolk Circuit Court / Norfolk, Virginia

    Judge Lannetti began his service as a Norfolk Circuit Court Judge in 2014. Prior to taking the bench, he was a partner in the law firm of Vandeventer Black LLP (now Woods Rogers), where he concentrated on civil litigation. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and William & Mary Law School. Among other activities, he recently completed nine years as Chair of the Virginia State Bar Standing Committee on Professionalism, is Chair of the Supreme Court of Virginia Benchbook Committee, is an adjunct professor at both William & Mary and Regent University Law Schools, is a Past President of the James Kent American Inn of Court and of the Norfolk & Portsmouth Bar Association, has published numerous articles in legal journals, and is a frequent lecturer on legal topics. He also is very involved in the local community.

    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.       

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  • Post Luncheon Ethics CLE - The 2026 MLM Malpractice Report: "Steps You Can Take to Minimize Risk and Protect Your Practice"

    • Thursday, October 15, 2026
    • 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse 1st Floor Training Room, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 10
    Register

    Thursday, October 15, 2026

    1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. - Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda

    Free to NPBA members; $30 non-members

    1 CLE hr (Ethics)

    Area of Law: Ethics

    Summary:

    Legal malpractice claims, like cans of paint, come in a wide variety of colors. There are common malpractice hazards to all who practice law, such as faulty office systems and poor client communications. But to fully understand your professional liability exposure, you'll first need a good understanding of the risks associated with your specific area of practice. This program will cover the most common malpractice claims reported - and how to avoid them - across a variety of practice areas. Attendees will also be informed of the trending topics on legal malpractice issues and developments as reported by the American Bar Association's 2023 Profile of Legal Malpractice Claims and statistics from the MLM Claims Department.

    Speaker: Joyván Malbon-Griffin, Esq. (Joy) is a Regional Director with Minnesota Lawyers Mutual


    Joyván Malbon-Griffin, Esq. (Joy) is a Regional Director with Minnesota Lawyers Mutual.  She received her undergraduate degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA and her Juris Doctor degree from North Carolina Central University School of Law in Durham, NC.  Prior to joining MLM, Joy practiced complex civil litigation in state and federal court.  She was also an adjunct professor teaching Contracts Law and a vast array of other legal classes.  In her daily tasks as Regional Director, she assists firms with the securement of liability insurance and provides risk management to firms including but not limited to ethical malpractice prevention, case file management, trust account management and cybersecurity. 


    Joy is a member and the International Legal Advisor and General Counsel for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.  Additionally, she is a member of the James Kent Inns of Court, a CLE Committee member of the Norfolk Portsmouth Bar Association and a board member for the Urban League of Hampton Roads.  In 2022 Joy was admitted to the United States Supreme Court Bar and in 2025 she was awarded as a Virginia Lawyers Weekly In-House Counsel Honoree.  Joy’s professional achievements have been recognized by her inclusion in Virginia Business Magazine’s “Legal Elite” list in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team. 


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  • CLE: "Cell Phone Forensics: Applications in Discovery & Investigations"

    • Tuesday, October 20, 2026
    • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse 1st Floor Training Room, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 10
    Register

    Tuesday, October 20, 2026

    12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Norfolk Courthouse First Floor Training Room

    Free to NPBA members; $30 non-members

    Area of Law: Evidence, Civil/Criminal Procedure

    Topic: "Cell Phone Forensics: Applications in Discovery & Investigations"

    1 CLE hr

    Speaker: Patrick J. Siewert, Director - Digital Forensics & eDiscovery, ArcherHall

    Patrick Siewert is Director of Digital Forensics & eDiscovery for ArcherHall, based in Richmond, Virginia. Patrick has 15 years of law enforcement experience highlighted by high-profile and precedent-setting case work investigating electronically-facilitated crime. He founded Pro Digital Forensic Consulting in 2013, which was acquired by ArcherHall in 2022.  Patrick has completed multiple trainings and certificates in the practice areas of computer forensics, mobile device forensics and analysis of cellular historical location records and is well-versed in their value in civil and criminal litigation. He has also qualified as an expert witness in the aforementioned disciplines in multiple courts across the country and is an adjunct professor of digital forensics at Virginia Commonwealth University. ArcherHall offers a full suite of digital forensic & eDiscovery services for the litigation community nationwide.

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  • CLE: Show Me the Money: An Overview for Litigating Equitable Distribution and Child Support Cases

    • Friday, October 23, 2026
    • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse 1st Floor Training Room, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 21
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    Friday, October 23, 2026

    Show Me the Money: An Overview for Litigating Equitable Distribution and Child Support Cases

    1:30 p.m. to 3:30p.m. - First Floor Training Room - Norfolk Courthouse 

    Free to NPBA members; $30 non-members

    2 CLE hrs

    Areas of Law:  Family Law / Domestic Relations

    Speakers: Regina Amick, Partner, Wolcott Rivers Gates and Mitchell Broudy, Senior Assistant Attorney General, Office of the Attorney General of Virginia

      

    CLE SUMMARY

    Part 1: Equitable Distribution
    The basics for trying an equitable distribution case.

    • The equitable distribution statute in Virginia
    • Classification of property: separate, marital, hybrid
    • Valuation: Determining title, ownership, value, rights, and interests
    • Trial and mediation preparation
    • Advising clients, managing expectations, and practical tips

    Part 2: Child Support
    Determining income is easy when the answer is on a paystub. But what happens when the parent is self-employed, income fluctuates, the financial records do not tell the whole story, or a party claims the parent could be earning more? Using Virginia appellate decisions and practical examples, the program will focus on four questions:

    • What Are They Really Making? Proving current income when tax returns, paystubs, bank records, and business records tell different stories.
    • Does It Count as Income? Business income, bonuses, nonrecurring receipts, benefits, and the line between income and non-income.
    • What Could They Be Making? Voluntary unemployment or underemployment, earning capacity, and proving available wages and jobs.
    • Can You Prove It? Burdens of proof, BLS wage data, judicial notice, and developing an evidentiary record that will withstand appellate review.


    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.       


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  • YLS Breakfast with the Bench - The Hon. Jamilah D. LeCruise

    • Wednesday, October 28, 2026
    • 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
    • NY Bagel Cafe / 580 E. Main Street / Suite 101 / Norfolk, VA 23510 - Right across from the Courthouse
    • 25
    • Be the first
    Register

    Join the NPBA Young Lawyers Section

    for a special

    YLS Breakfast with the Bench

    featuring

    The Hon. Jamilah D. LeCruise

    of the Norfolk Circuit Court as our host!


    Connect with fellow young lawyers and gain invaluable insights directly from the bench over fresh coffee and bagels in a casual, conversational setting.


    NY Bagel Cafe

    580 E. Main Street

    Suite 101

    Norfolk, VA 23510


    Spaces are limited to keep the conversation engaging and accessible so be sure to RSVP early to secure your spot!

    Show details

  • Ethics CLE - Title coming soon

    • Thursday, October 29, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    • Zoom
    • 99
    • Be the first
    Register

    More information coming soon! 

    Show details

  • 2026 NPBA YLS Fall Social

    • Sunday, November 01, 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • The Hon. Robert B. Rigney's Home (location to be emailed to registered attendees only)
    • 100
    • Be the first
    Register

    Unwind & Connect:

    NPBA Young Lawyers Section Annual Fall Social


    Join the NPBA Young Lawyers Section for one of our favorite autumn traditions! We’re gathering from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the home of one of our local judges for an afternoon of warm hospitality, good conversation, and seasonal fare.
    This event is open to all NPBA members and their guests. Whether you’re looking to catch up with old friends, introduce yourself to new colleagues, or connect with members of the bench in a relaxed, weekend afternoon setting, this event is designed for you. Enjoy an informal afternoon of building meaningful relationships across our local legal community.
    Event Details & Highlights
    When: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Who: Open to NPBA Members & Guests
    Casual Networking: Connect with peers and judges outside the courtroom.
    Food & Drinks: Enjoy seasonal refreshments, light bites, and fall drinks.
    Community: Expand your local professional network and welcome new practitioners to the Tidewater legal community.
    RSVP Today:
    Space is limited due to venue capacity. Please register early (and include any guests) to secure your spot and help us plan for catering.
    We look forward to seeing you there!

    Registered attendees will received an email by October 28, 2026 with the event address.

    Show details

  • NPBA Executive Committee Meeting

    • Wednesday, November 04, 2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • Zoom


    Show details

  • YLS Board Meeting

    • Wednesday, November 18, 2026
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Varia inside Norfolk Hilton The Main, 100 East Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510

    YLS Board Meeting

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  • Luncheon - Special Ed Pro Bono Work Made Accessible

    • Thursday, November 19, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda, 8th Floor, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 54
    Register

    Join us for the monthly Luncheon Meeting on November 19, 2026

    12:00 to 1:00 p.m. - Rotunda

    Free to NPBA Members; $30.00 Non-Members
    Registration includes a boxed lunch and water.

    Speaker:  Jim Wheaton - Director of William & Mary Law's Special Education Advocacy Clinic, Clinical Professor of Law


    Jim Wheaton is Director of the Special Education Advocacy Clinic and a Clinical Professor of Law. A graduate of Wake Forest University, he earned his J.D. at the University of Virginia School of Law where he was executive editor of the Virginia Law Review and a member of Order of the Coif. Following law school, he clerked for Judge J. Dickson Phillips Jr. of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Jim brings to the Clinic his long-standing interest in special education and disability law issues. During his private-practice career, Jim devoted his legal pro bono efforts to representing students and families in special education matters, including attendance at Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, dispute resolution, mediation, filing and resolution of state compliance complaints, and successful representation through due process proceedings and federal court appeals. Wheaton represented national, Virginia statewide, and local disability rights organizations as amici curiae in a case before the Fourth Circuit. He also served as a member of the American Bar Association Commission on Disability Rights from 2013-16. Jim chaired the Board of Commissioners of the Virginia Public School Authority from 2002-08 and served on the Chesapeake, Virginia, School Board from 1991-2000. He was a member of the Special Education Task Force appointed by Representative Donald McEachin from 2017-18. As a parent member of the Down Syndrome Association of Hampton Roads, he also participated in that organization’s special education seminars. Jim taught previously at Boston University School of Law and as an adjunct at both William & Mary Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law. He had a private practice career that included serving as General Counsel of a public company, and as a partner and practice group leader in an AmLaw 100 firm. He is a former chair of the business sections of both the Virginia State Bar and Virginia Bar Association, and a former chair of the American Bar Association Section of Business Law’s LLC & Unincorporated Entities Committee. In 2015, Wheaton received the Martin I. Lubaroff Award from the American Bar Association for leadership, scholarship, and service in the field of LLCs, partnerships and unincorporated entities law. He is a fellow of the American Bar Foundation and of the American College of LLC & Partnership Attorneys.


    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.

    Show details

  • NPBA Executive Committee Meeting

    • Wednesday, January 13, 2027
    • 4:00 PM
    • Zoom


    Show details

  • Luncheon - Emily Shield, Hermitage Museum & Gardens

    • Thursday, January 21, 2027
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda, 8th Floor, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 55
    Register

    Join us for the monthly Luncheon Meeting on January 21, 2027.

    12:00 to 1:00 p.m. - Rotunda

    Free to NPBA Members; $30.00 Non-Members
    Registration includes a boxed lunch and water.

    Speaker:  Emily Shield, Hermitage Museum & Gardens

    More info coming soon.





    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.

    Show details

  • NPBA Executive Committee Meeting

    • Wednesday, February 10, 2027
    • 4:00 PM
    • Zoom


    Show details

  • Luncheon - Susan Tarley - Virginia State Bar, President

    • Thursday, February 18, 2027
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda, 8th Floor, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 55
    Register

    Join us for the monthly Luncheon Meeting on February 18, 2027.

    12:00 to 1:00 p.m. - Rotunda

    Free to NPBA Members; $30.00 Non-Members
    Registration includes a boxed lunch and water.

    Speaker:  Susan B. Tarley - Virginia State Bar, President







    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.

    Show details

  • NPBA Executive Committee Meeting

    • Wednesday, March 10, 2027
    • 4:00 PM
    • Zoom


    Show details

  • Luncheon - Justice Fulton - Topic TBD

    • Thursday, March 18, 2027
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Norfolk Courthouse Rotunda, 8th Floor, 150 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
    • 55
    Register

    Join us for the monthly Luncheon Meeting on March 18, 2027

    12:00 to 1:00 p.m. - Rotunda

    Free to NPBA Members; $30.00 Non-Members
    Registration includes a boxed lunch and water.

    Speaker: Justice Junius P. Fulton, III

    More info coming soon.



    Disclaimer

    By registering for this Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) event or program you consent to being photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded at the event or program. By doing so, you grant to the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) rights to the release, publication or reproduction of any recorded media taken at the event or program of your appearance, voice or name for use by the Norfolk and Portsmouth Bar Association (NPBA) and its management team.

    Show details