Michael E. "Mike" Derdeyn

As a highly effective and sought-after trial advocate and proven litigator, Kelvin Newsome knows from longevity of experience that dispute resolution—whether in or out of court—demands more than just legal knowledge; it requires the instinct to anticipate opposition and the composure to execute under pressure. He brings both of these sought-after qualities to his defense practice. Over the course of his career, Kelvin has resolved serious disputes and seemingly intractable litigat...

Brian Lubkeman has practiced in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for over 20 years, concentrating on complex real estate transactions (both developed and raw-land transactions, from acquisition through disposition); real estate development matters; commercial lending transactions (for borrowers and lenders); and commercial leasing (both landlord and tenant representations, for public and private companies, across all property types, including retail, commercial, industrial and specialty...

Nathan R. Olansen is the Managing Shareholder in the law firm of Midgett Preti Olansen. His practice is focused on estate planning, probate and trust administration, IRS and state and local tax audit and tax collection cases, as well as individual and entity tax planning, asset protection and a variety of related transactional matters such as business succession planning, business entity start-ups and tax planning for divorce. Nathan has extensive experience in drafting and implementing all t...

David Kelly is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area of Labor Law - Management. David practices law in Reston, Virginia Best Lawyers has recognized David Kelly since 2027. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which David Kelly is held by other lawyers.

Benjamin Kinder is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area of Nonprofit / Charities Law. Benjamin practices law in Reston, Virginia Best Lawyers has recognized Benjamin Kinder since 2026. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which Benjamin Kinder is held by other lawyers.

Charles Sims handles high-stakes business litigation and professional liability defense in state and federal courts with tactical precision and strategic insight. His practice centers on resolving legal and accounting malpractice, architects and engineers liability, and errors and omissions claims where reputations and livelihoods hang in the balance. Clients value his ability to distill sophisticated technical issues into persuasive courtroom narratives that resonate with judges, juries, and...

Former Virginia Attorney General and Virginia Secretary of Public Safety Jerry Kilgore is a member of Cozen O’Connor’s State Attorneys General Practice. Jerry’s distinguished political career and experience as a litigator uniquely positions him to advise clients on important government investigations and regulatory matters, and the interplay with Attorneys General and public policy. Jerry’s experience and hands-on perspective on issues ranging from consumer protection ...

For more than 15 years, Leigh has been helping families and individuals navigate matters that include divorce, custody, visitation, spousal support, child support, property division and protective orders. She represents clients throughout Northern Virginia in all aspects of domestic relations litigation. While litigation is a fundamental aspect of her practice, the majority of her cases settle outside of court. It is Leigh’s goal to help clients reach an agreement in the most efficient ...

Mark E. Shaffer is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice areas of Commercial Litigation and Litigation - Real Estate. Mark E. practices law in McLean, Virginia Best Lawyers has recognized Mark E. Shaffer since 2025. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which Mark E. Shaffer is held by other lawyers.

Brian's practice focuses on the construction and engineering industry, federal government contracts and surety law. Brian represents owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors, engineers, design professionals and sureties in all phases of public and private projects from contract inception through alternative dispute resolution and litigation. Brian advises regional, national and international clients on complex legal issues, including contract performance and administration, risk assess...