Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2026 
John M. Erbach is a commercial litigator based in Richmond, Virginia, representing businesses and individuals in complex disputes in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration proceedings. His practice includes Commercial Litigation, Litigation - Intellectual Property, and Litigation - Labor and Employment matters. John handles a broad range of disputes involving business torts, intellectual property issues, employment claims, consumer protection matters, insurance coverage disputes, and other complex commercial litigation.
In addition to his litigation practice, John regularly serves as outside general counsel to small and mid-sized businesses. He advises clients on employment compliance, workplace policies, employee handbooks, contract and commercial disputes, risk management, and dispute resolution strategies. His experience counseling businesses on day-to-day operational and legal issues allows him to provide practical guidance tailored to each client’s objectives.
John has extensive experience litigating matters in Virginia state courts and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. He has represented clients through trial and arbitration proceedings and frequently serves as local counsel for national and international law firms with matters pending in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Earlier in his legal career, John served as a law clerk to three federal judges in Richmond, Virginia: the Honorable Henry E. Hudson, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia; the Honorable Dennis W. Dohnal, U.S. Magistrate Judge; and the Honorable David J. Novak, then-U.S. Magistrate Judge and now U.S. District Judge. His clerkship experience provided valuable insight into federal court procedure and complex litigation matters.
John is also active in public service and community leadership. In 2015, he was elected to represent the Dale District of Chesterfield County, Virginia, on the Chesterfield County School Board. During his four-year term, he helped oversee policy decisions, personnel matters, budgeting, and capital improvement projects for one of the region’s largest public employers. He also served as vice chairman and chairman of the Board in 2017 and 2018. His experience serving in public office informs his understanding of the operational and employment-related challenges faced by organizations and business leaders.
John practices with Spotts Fain PC in Richmond, Virginia, where he advises clients in commercial litigation, intellectual property litigation, and labor and employment disputes.
