Just Virginia

Virginia Law Foundation
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Education
  • Biweekly

Through biweekly episodes, JUST VIRGINIA brings you conversations with changemakers, legal leaders, and everyday advocates serving the Commonwealth and beyond. From recent developments to community-driven solutions, this podcast spotlights initiatives expanding access to justice and championing the Rule of Law and explores relevant topics to educate attorneys and the community at-large. Whether you're a legal professional or a civic-minded listener, this show delivers engaging stories and insights on how real people—people like you—are working to create a more JUST VIRGINIA. 

  1. 3d ago

    Michael Maschke: Staying Safe in the Digital Space

    With the ever-evolving cybersecurity threats law firms of all sizes face, what are some steps attorneys can take to protect client confidentiality?  Michael Maschke, President and CEO of Sensei Enterprises, and host John Rotman, Director of Seminars at the Virginia Law Foundation, explore the importance of phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication, AI security best practices, and vendor safeguards.   They look at common vulnerabilities in law firms, including outdated systems, forgotten administrator accounts, phishing attacks, and unsecured cloud data. Michael also shares practical insights on proactive risk management, the role of firm leadership and employee training, and how cyber insurance can help strengthen a firm’s defenses. His message is clear: cybersecurity requires ongoing attention, informed decision-making, and a firm-wide commitment to protecting client trust.    Beyond the Episode — Links and More  Get to know Michael Maschke. Dive deeper into the topic with articles Michael has co-authored with Sharon Nelson and John Simek: Cyberattacks on Law Firms Are Rising. Here's What's Driving It. Incident Response Has Become a Law Firm Survival SkillCyber Insurance Is Not a Cybersecurity StrategyRegister for Michael's CLE seminar, February 9: Cybersecurity for Lawyers and Law Firms: Emerging Threats and Practical Defenses Listen to our previous conversations surrounding AI: Tom Dunlap on Episode 3 and Sophie Curdts Mohrmann on Episode 15. The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  2. Oct 15

    Emma Harrington: Adjusting to Remote Work and AI

    Remote and hybrid work are reshaping how young professionals learn, build careers, and connect with others. In this episode of Just Virginia, Professor Emma Harrington of the University of Virginia shares research with host and CEO Alison Martin on the hidden costs of remote work, including reduced feedback, mentorship, and opportunities for career development.   The conversation explores what these findings mean for legal professionals, employers, and organizations navigating flexibility while preserving collaboration and institutional knowledge. Emma also offers practical advice for young professionals and employers on making in-person interactions count and using AI to augment — not replace — human learning and mentorship.    Beyond the Episode — Links and More  Get to know Emma Harrington. Learn more about her research with Natalia Emanuel in their book In Person: How Working Together Fuels Creativity, Productivity, and Growth   Check out Andrea Hsu’s NPR article referenced in this episode: Remote work — not AI — has sidelined recent college graduates, research finds Want more on AI? Join national speaker Paul Unger's seminar with Virginia CLE on AI-Powered Practice: Mastering Prompts and Time Management in October and December. The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  3. Oct 1

    Denise Krepp: Turning Passion into Purpose

    K. Denise Rucker Krepp, recipient of the Virginia State Bar Military and Veterans Law Section’s 2026 Pro Bono Award, shares her journey of service and advocacy for military members, veterans, and survivors of sexual assault. She and host Karl Doss, VP of CLE, discuss the legal challenges survivors face, the importance of accountability and transparency, and how attorneys can use their time and expertise to provide meaningful pro bono support.  Denise also offers practical insights on building trust with survivors, overcoming fear, and the ways non-attorneys can make a difference by using their voices and supporting their communities. Her message is simple: pair your passion with pro bono service, help someone else, and encourage them to pass that support forward.    Beyond the Episode — Links and More  Get to know Denise Krepp. Inspired at the idea of helping others? Take the Pro Bono Persona Quiz and get connected at Pro Bono Virginia. Enroll in the free Pro Bono Academy the VLF and Virginia CLE are helping facilitate. The 4-class Housing Academy starts October 28, with academies on adult guardianship and protective orders coming in 2027. Learn about two 2026 VLF grant recipients offering access to justice services to survivors of human trafficking: Survivor Ventures and Freekind.  The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  4. Sep 17

    Sophie Curdts Mohrmann: The Intergenerational Workplace

    How can law firms build thriving workplaces across generations while navigating rapid technological change? Sophie Curdts Mohrmann has ideas about it and joins host and CEO Alison Martin for a lively discussion. As director of attorney development and engagement at Williams Mullen, Sophie has been called “the sociologist for the law firm,” studying groups and thinking about how they can better connect.   This episode explores hybrid work, intergenerational friction, how intentional professional development can strengthen connection, learning, and retention within law firms…and, of course, AI. Sophie and Alison talk about the impact of AI on legal careers (and psyches), the importance of human judgment and emotional intelligence, and how law firms can intentionally prepare for the future. Sophie’s top advice? Listen across generations with curiosity instead of assumptions.    Beyond the Episode — Links and More  Get to know Sophie Curdts Mohrmann.Two articles Sophie recommends:  It’s Time to Change the Narrative Around Gen-Z Employees -- Three actions leaders can take to better manage young workers. Designing lawyers: Attorney growth in the age of AI-fueled practice.Catch an on-demand CLE featuring Sophie and fellow panelists discussing how law firms are reshaping workplace culture to promote healthier, more sustainable careers: Designing a Work Culture that Supports Attorneys from The Wellness Institute 2026. MCLE Credit: 1.0 (Well-Being: 1.0) Brush up on emotional intelligence (ever more important in an AI-boosted world). Join us September 28 for Beyond IQ: Emotional Intelligence Skills to Enhance Your Family Practice, a webcast with live Q&A. MCLE Credit: 2.0 (Ethics: 1.0; Well-Being: 2.0) The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  5. Sep 3

    Colleen Quinn & Claire Guthrie Gastañaga: Women and the Law

    “Being first is hard. Making sure you’re not the last…That’s leadership,” remarked keynote speaker Eva DeVirgilis at last year’s Women and the Law Institute. Our next guests, Colleen Quinn and Claire Guthrie Gastañaga, chaired that exciting inaugural institute and join us today to continue the conversation about women in the legal profession. Both attorneys are passionate changemakers in the field as well as entrepreneurs—Colleen is the founder of the Quinn Law Centers, and Claire is founder of ChangeServant, PLC. They bring their unique perspectives to topics including mentorship, work-life balance, and the challenges women continue to face in advancing their careers. (Not to mention how AI and value-based billing could reshape the practice of law into a more flexible, sustainable profession!) Beyond the Episode Get to know Colleen Quinn and Claire Guthrie Gastañaga.Continue the exploration at The Constitutional Law Institute, September 25, featuring the session: Gender Equality in Virginia: The Constitution, Equal Protection, and the Courts with Jamie Abrams, Llezelle Agustin Dugger, Hon. Jane Marum Roush (Ret.), and Prof. Henry L. Chambers, Jr.Did you miss Colleen and Claire at the Women and the Law Institute? Revisit now! ·       Inspired by all the talk about mentorship?Check out Episode 8, The Richness of Mentorship with the Hon. Tyneka L.D. Flythe. The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  6. Aug 20

    Jeanne Franklin: Civility as a Civic Virtue

    In this episode of Just Virginia, host and VP of CLE Karl Doss speaks with Jeannie Franklin, mediator, conflict management professional, and recipient of the 2025 Civility in the Law Award from the Virginia Law Foundation.  Drawing from decades of legal practice and her work in dispute resolution through Franklin Solutions, Jeannie explores why civility is not weakness or superficial politeness but a disciplined, powerful tool essential to justice, professionalism, and democracy itself.  From courtroom advocacy to high school classrooms, Jeannie shares how civility strengthens legal outcomes, builds public trust, reduces the pain of conflict, and fosters hope for the next generation.    Beyond the Episode — Links and More  Get to know Jeanne Franklin. Watch Jeanne’s video recommendation: the VSB Senior Section’s Civility and Professionalism | Officers of the Court. Join us for the presentation of the 2026 Civility in Law Award to John B. McCammon at the Rule of Law Event, October 8 at the Virginia Holocaust Museum. Reserve now.  The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  7. Aug 6

    The Honorable Daniel E. Ortiz

    In this episode of Just Virginia, Court of Appeals of Virginia Judge Daniel Ortiz shares the personal journey that led him from UVA, Capitol Hill, and commercial litigation to the bench, along with the experiences that deepened his commitment to public service and access to justice. Judge Ortiz also offers a thoughtful look at recent developments from the Supreme Court of Virginia, including leadership changes, closely watched split decisions, trade secrets litigation, sovereign immunity, and appellate trends. Join CEO Alison Martin and our distinguished guest for a wide-ranging conversation about fairness, judgment, and the role lawyers and courts play in sustaining confidence in the Rule of Law.    Beyond the Episode  Get to know the Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz.*  Join Judge Ortiz for CLE August 26 in Charlottesville or via webcast.  What’s New at the Virginia Supreme Court? An Overview of Recent Civil Decisions 2026  Want to learn more about the Court of Appeals? You can even livestream the oral arguments.    * Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz, Court of Appeals of Virginia, Richmond  Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia and received his law degree from the George Washington University Law School. He began his legal career at the Fairfax County Circuit Court, clerking for the Honorable M. Langhorne Keith. At the conclusion of his clerkship, Judge Ortiz joined Blankingship & Keith, P.C., where he became a shareholder and principal at the firm. Judge Ortiz was appointed to serve an eight-year term as a circuit court judge that began on January 1, 2015. In August 2021, Judge Ortiz was appointed to serve on the Court of Appeals of Virginia.  Judge Ortiz was a member of the Board of Directors of the Fairfax Bar Association and the Board of Governors of The Virginia Bar Association and was selected by his peers to chair both the Young Lawyers Section of the Fairfax Bar Association and the Young Lawyers Division of the VBA. He previously served as a Substitute Judge in the General District Court and Juvenile Domestic Relations District Court for five years in Fairfax County. Recently, Judge Ortiz was selected to serve on the Virginia Access to Justice Commission. He is a member of the faculty of the Harry L. Carrico Professionalism Course. Judge Ortiz is also a former board member and president of Legal Services of Northern Virginia. The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

  8. Jul 23

    Brett Marston & Cameron Rountree: An Inside Look at the Virginia State Bar

    What makes the Virginia State Bar a CAN-DO organization? Values that start with creativity and span to service to others and, of course, committed leadership. On today’s episode, Brett Marston, 87th President of the VSB and Managing Partner at Gentry Locke, and Cameron Rountree, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the VSB, discuss the bar’s mission and work with VP of CLE Karl Doss.   Join us for an inside look at how the VSB balances public protection, professional accountability, ethical guidance, access to legal services, and long-term planning for the future of the Commonwealth’s legal profession. You’ll leave affirmed in the knowledge that Virginia lawyers make a difference!    Beyond the Episode  Get to know the K. Brett Marston and Cameron Rountree. Learn more about the Virginia State Bar’s Statewide Pro Bono Portal (and stay tuned for more details on how the VLF is getting involved!)  Doing pro bono work? Virginia CLE offers free On Demand Seminars in our Pro Bono Toolkit. Read the EGAD VA Report.  The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.

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About

Through biweekly episodes, JUST VIRGINIA brings you conversations with changemakers, legal leaders, and everyday advocates serving the Commonwealth and beyond. From recent developments to community-driven solutions, this podcast spotlights initiatives expanding access to justice and championing the Rule of Law and explores relevant topics to educate attorneys and the community at-large. Whether you're a legal professional or a civic-minded listener, this show delivers engaging stories and insights on how real people—people like you—are working to create a more JUST VIRGINIA. 

Information

  • Creator
    Virginia Law Foundation
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Virginia Law Foundation
  • Show Website
    Just Virginia

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