Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025
Roanoke, Va. (September 3, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that K. Brett Marston and Gregory D. Habeeb have been named to Virginia Business’s 2025 “Power 500” list.
The editorial team of Virginia Business has selected Gentry Locke’s Brett Marston in the category of Law. Brett is Gentry Locke’s Managing Partner and serves as the current President of the Virginia State Bar. Greg Habeeb was selected in the category of Professional Services. Habeeb is the President of Gentry Locke Consulting, as well as Chairs Gentry Locke’s Government and Regulatory Affairs practice group.
“The list of executives chosen for profiles in this publication is determined by position, career achievements, company revenue, the number of employees a leader oversees, the scope of his or her responsibilities, and their involvement and prominence within their industry and community,” explained Richard Foster, Virginia Business Editor.
The full list of individuals recognized in the Virginia Business’s 500 Power list can be found here.
Marston serves as Gentry Locke’s Managing Partner and is a member of the firm’s Construction Law practice group. He has extensive experience in construction contract negotiations and preparation, payment disputes, mechanic’s liens, bond claims, construction defects, delay claims, insurance, and OSHA matters. He handles significant construction matters in federal and state courts, arbitration and mediation for general contractors, subcontractors, owners, design professionals and suppliers. In addition, Marston also serves as President of the Virginia State Bar, a post he will hold through June 2026. He has a lengthy history of leadership in the state bar. He currently leads the bar’s executive committee and formerly served on the budget and finance committee.
Habeeb has been a fixture in Virginia politics and political consulting for decades. He served as a Republican delegate for Virginia’s 8th District in the House of Delegates from January 2011 until his resignation in August 2018; Habeeb wanted to devote more time to his work at Gentry Locke. Today, he is president of Gentry Locke Consulting, a lobbying and strategic communications consulting practice the firm launched in 2020. Habeeb chairs the firm’s government and regulatory affairs practice.
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025
Roanoke, Va. (September 2, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that Paul G. Klockenbrink has been named to the Virginia Lawyers Weekly 2025 “Leaders in the Law” list and John G Danyluk has been named to the publication’s “Up & Coming Lawyers” Class of 2025. Honorees will be recognized at the Virginia Lawyers Weekly celebration on October 30 in downtown Richmond.
Now in its 20th year, the Virginia Lawyers Weekly Leaders in the Law awards recognize lawyers across the Commonwealth who are setting the standard for other Virginia lawyers. “Leaders” are changing the law, serving the community, changing practices, or improving Virginia’s justice system, among other accomplishments. The Up & Coming Lawyer program, now in its 10th year, recognizes lawyers across the Commonwealth who are making their mark within their first 10 years of practice.
“We are incredibly proud of Paul and John for their outstanding work and well-deserved statewide recognition. They both consistently go above and beyond for our clients, and this award is a testament to their dedication and excellence.” said Gentry Locke Managing Partner Brett Marston.
Klockenbrink is a Partner in Gentry Locke’s Labor & Employment law group. Paul advises and represents employers throughout Virginia regarding employment law issues, as well as the litigation of non-compete agreements, insurance defense matters and business-related claims. During his 20+ years with Gentry Locke, Paul has brought cases to trial that involve discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment, non-competition, defamation, malicious prosecution, premises liability and commercial motor vehicle accidents, among others.
Danyluk practices in Gentry Locke’s White-Collar Defense, Investigations & Compliance practice group, ranked Band 1 by Chambers USA. John represents both corporate and individual clients during their most difficult times, defending and guiding them through all phases of the criminal process. John defends and counsels clients in highly regulated industries, with a particular focus on government contractors and the defense industrial base, healthcare and pharmaceutical companies, and critical infrastructure entities.
Danyluk is also an expert in data privacy and cybersecurity, John is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/U.S.) with the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) and guides clients through complex and evolving data privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations.
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Monday, August 25th, 2025
ROANOKE, Va. (August 25, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that partner Bruce C. Stockburger has been named a 2025 Go To Lawyer for taxation by Virginia Lawyers Weekly.
Now in its fifth year, the Go To Lawyers program recognizes top lawyers across Virginia who demonstrate excellence in their field. Honorees are selected based on several criteria, including a track record of success, peer referrals, and the ability to handle complex matters with creativity and skill.
Stockburger, who is based in the firm’s Roanoke office, focuses his practice on taxation, trusts and estates, and business law. With decades of experience advising individuals, families, and businesses, he is known for delivering thoughtful, practical strategies in matters involving tax planning, estate administration, and business transactions.
“Bruce is a trusted advisor whose deep knowledge of tax law and unwavering dedication to his clients make him truly deserving of this recognition,” said Managing Partner Brett Marston. “We are proud to see his exceptional work honored by Virginia Lawyers Weekly.”
Stockburger has been recognized throughout his career for his professionalism and leadership in the legal community. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) and is frequently sought after for his insight on complex tax and estate issues.
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website at gentrylocke.com.
Thursday, August 21st, 2025
ROANOKE, Va. (August 21, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that thirty-one of the firm’s attorneys are included in the 2026 Best Lawyers® lists, including twenty-eight attorneys recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® and three attorneys recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America.
Of the thirty-one attorneys recognized in The Best Lawyers in America, two attorneys were also recognized with a 2026 Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” award, which is given annually to only one lawyer per practice area in each region. The Gentry Locke attorneys recognized with this award are:
- K. Brett Marston was named the Best Lawyers 2026 Construction Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Roanoke.
- Patricia (P.J.) Turner was named the Best Lawyers 2026 Construction Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Richmond.
The twenty-eight Gentry Locke attorneys and the cities and areas of practice in which they were recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America list are:
Roanoke, VA
- Thomas J. Bondurant – Corporate Compliance Law, Criminal Defense: White-Collar
- Matthew W. Broughton – Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, Product Liability Litigation – Plaintiffs
- Michael J. Finney – Appellate Law, Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Labor and Employment, Qui Tam Law
- G. Frank Flippin – Banking and Finance Law, Corporate Law, Financial Services Regulation Law, Mergers and Acquisitions Law
- W. William Gust – Employment Benefits (ERISA) Law, Tax Law
- Gregory J. Haley – Commercial Litigation, Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, Government Relations Practice, Litigation – Land Use and Zoning, Litigation – Municipal
- Guy M. Harbert, III – Insurance Law
- Kevin Walker Holt – Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Intellectual Property
- Paul G. Klockenbrink – Employment Law – Management, Litigation – Labor and Employment
- Todd A. Leeson – Employment Law – Management, Labor Law – Management, Litigation – Labor and Employment
- Powell M. (Nick) Leitch, III – Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants
- K. Brett Marston – Construction Law, Litigation – Construction
- Monica Taylor Monday – Appellate Practice
- W. David Paxton – Employment Law – Individuals, Employment Law – Management, Labor Law – Management, Litigation – Labor and Employment
- William R. Rakes – Antitrust Law, Appellate Practice, Banking and Finance Law, Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Corporate Law, Financial Services Regulation Law, Litigation – Banking and Finance, Litigation – Mergers and Acquisitions
- J. Scott Sexton – Commercial Litigation
- Kirk M. Sosebee – Commercial Litigation
- Bruce C. Stockburger – Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law, Tax Law, Trusts and Estates
- Charles L. Williams – Environmental Law
- Clark H. Worthy – Real Estate Law
- Kathleen L. Wright – Litigation – Municipal
Richmond, VA
Norfolk, VA
The three Gentry Locke attorneys and the areas of practice and which they were recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America are:
Roanoke, VA
- Benjamin R. Law – Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions Law, Real Estate Law
Richmond, VA
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Tuesday, August 12th, 2025
NORFOLK, Va. (August 12, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is proud to announce that Michael V. Moro, II has been selected as a member of the CIVIC Leadership Institute’s Executive Program for the Class of 2026 – a prestigious cohort of executive leaders chosen to participate in a transformative experience aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and driving impactful change.
The CIVIC Executive Program brings together top leaders and visionaries from across Hampton Roads, representing a wide range of industries including business, healthcare, education, military, and non-profit sectors. This year’s class reflects the diversity and innovation that define the region.
CIVIC Leadership Institute’s mission is to connect and empower leaders from all backgrounds, providing them with the tools and network to address regional challenges through collaboration and forward-thinking solutions.
Moro is a partner in the firm’s General Commercial Practice Group. He advises business owners and business organizations on matters concerning mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, corporate finance, and all manner of commercial transactions. He assists clients in connection with the preparation of governing documents, shareholder agreements, and operating agreements. He negotiates commercial contracts, including software license agreements and cloud computing agreements, handles all aspects of mergers and acquisitions transactions, and advises clients in connection with the negotiation of commercial lease agreements.
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Tuesday, July 1st, 2025
ROANOKE, Va. (July 1, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is proud to announce that its Managing Partner K. Brett Marston was officially sworn in on Friday evening June 13, 2025, as the 87th President of the Virginia State Bar. Brett’s term will run from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
“We are proud of the dedication Brett has shown serving the legal profession and upholding the highest standards of professionalism, and are confident that his leadership will be a benefit to the Virginia State Bar and the public,” said Monica Taylor Monday, Chair of Gentry Locke’s Executive Board.
In addition to his legal practice and leadership role at Gentry Locke, Brett has been involved in Virginia State Bar and Roanoke Bar Association programs and leadership for many years. In addition to serving previously as the President of the Roanoke Bar Association, Brett has been a member and leader of many committees and sections within the Virginia State Bar.
As of June 30, he concludes his year as VSB President-Elect, and a 6-year run as member and then Chair of the VSB Standing Committee on Legal Ethics. He also is concluding six years of membership on the VSB Professionalism Committee. Before that he has served on the VSB Budget and Finance Committee (2020-2022), as a Member of VSB Bar Council representing the 23rd Judicial Circuit (2016–2022), as a member of the VSB Executive Committee (2021-22), as Chair of the VSB Construction and Public Contracts Section (2012–2013), and multiple roles on the Section’s Board of Governors, including Treasurer (2009–2010) and Secretary (2010–2011).
Marston is currently the Managing Partner of Gentry Locke, and maintains his active practice in the firm’s Construction Contracting & Litigation group, along with a practice defending employers against OSHA citations. He has extensive experience in construction contract litigation and alternative dispute resolution, serving as a mediator and arbitrator in construction-related disputes.
About Gentry Locke
With over 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Monday, June 30th, 2025
ROANOKE, Va. (June 30, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce its outstanding success in the 2025 Legal Food Frenzy competition, a statewide initiative that unites Virginia’s legal community in support of local food banks. This year, thanks to the generosity and creativity of our attorneys and staff, Gentry Locke raised an incredible $31,433.40.
As a result of this effort, Gentry Locke has been honored with two Regional Winner Awards:
- Regional Winner for Total Giving – Feeding Southwest Virginia (Gentry Locke Roanoke & Lynchburg)
- Regional Winner for Per Capita Giving – Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore (Gentry Locke Norfolk)
To recognize these contributions, a reception was held for all 2025 Legal Food Frenzy winners on Tuesday, June 24, in Richmond, Virginia, hosted by Attorney General Jason S. Miyares. The event celebrated the dedication and impact of legal organizations across the Commonwealth that have stepped up in the fight against food insecurity.
“This initiative is about more than competition, it’s about community,” said Managing Partner Brett Marston. “We’re proud to help combat food insecurity in the regions where we live and work. These awards are a reflection of our team’s shared commitment to service.”
The Legal Food Frenzy, now in its nineteenth year, is sponsored by the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, the Young Lawyers Division of the Virginia Bar Association, and the Federation of Virginia Food Banks. Gentry Locke is honored to once again be a part of this effort and grateful to every member of the firm who contributed time, energy, and resources to support the cause. For more information about the Legal Food Frenzy, visit their website here.
About Gentry Locke
With over 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Tuesday, June 24th, 2025
RICHMOND, Va. (June 24, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that partner Karen Cohen has been named a 2025 Go To Lawyer for Commercial Real Estate by Virginia Lawyers Weekly.
Now in its fifth year, the Go To Lawyers program recognizes top lawyers across Virginia who demonstrate excellence in their field. Honorees are selected based on several criteria, including a track record of success, peer referrals, and the ability to handle complex matters with creativity and skill.
“Karen is an exceptional attorney whose dedication has contributed significantly to the growth of our Richmond office,” said Managing Partner Brett Marston. “This recognition reflects her deep knowledge, experience, and commitment to her clients.”
Cohen is a partner in the firm’s Richmond office and a key member of the Real Estate, Land Use & Zoning and Solar & Renewable Energy practice groups. She advises commercial real estate developers and renewable energy companies developing projects throughout the Commonwealth. Karen co-chairs the Land Use and Environmental Committee of the Real Property Section of the Virginia State Bar and previously served as Chair of the Section.
About Gentry Locke
With over 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Monday, June 23rd, 2025
NORFOLK, Va. (June 23, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that Paul Hawkins has joined the firm as a partner in our Norfolk office on the General Commercial team. Paul brings extensive experience in government contracting, with a focus on advising clients on a wide array of compliance and other legal issues unique to government contractors.
“We are pleased to have Paul join our growing Norfolk office,” said Gentry Locke Managing Partner Brett Marston. “His practice and experience expands our capabilities in the Hampton Roads region and will be a tremendous asset to our clients and the firm.”
Hawkins practice spans a broad range of services designed to support businesses at every stage of growth, with particular emphasis on the unique needs of government contractors. He advises clients on corporate formation and governance, including structures tailored for government contracting needs. His experience includes guiding clients through strategic mergers, acquisitions, and succession planning, as well as structuring joint ventures and partnerships, including those under the SBA All-Small Mentor-Protégé Program.
A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Hawkins served on active duty as a Surface Warfare Officer and continues to serve in the Navy Reserve. Prior to joining Gentry Locke, he was a partner at a boutique firm focused on government contracting and construction, where he developed a strong reputation for solving complex regulatory challenges and helping contractors compete and grow in a dynamic marketplace.
Hawkins earned his J.D. from William & Mary Law School and holds a B.S. from East Carolina University.
About Gentry Locke
With over 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
Friday, June 13th, 2025
ROANOKE, VA. (June 13, 2025) – The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that Jonathan D. Puvak was sworn in as President of the Roanoke Bar Association at the association’s 100th Annual Meeting. Alicha M. Grubb was also recognized as the Roanoke Bar Association’s Young Lawyer of the Year, which recognizes an outstanding young lawyer who has demonstrated dedicated services to our community and the profession. This marks the 18th attorney from Gentry Locke that has served as President of the RBA.
“Jon continues to demonstrate strong leadership in the local bar community, and we’re proud that Gentry Locke remains well represented in the leadership of the Roanoke Bar Association,” said Gentry Locke’s Managing Partner Brett Marston. “His dedication to service and commitment to the legal profession reflect the values we strive to uphold as a firm.”
Puvak is a member of Gentry Locke’s General Commercial group and serves on the Executive Board. He advises business organizations and governmental entities concerning commercial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and land use, and corporate governance matters. Jon regularly works with public and closely held entities to assist with their corporate governance and contract needs.
Jon has been a long-standing member of the Roanoke Bar Association. He has also served as a Barrister Book Buddy since 2015. Jon has been recognized for his service to the Virginia State Bar as well as the Virginia Bar Association.
Grubb is a member of Gentry Locke’s Commercial Litigation and Construction groups. She handles a variety of commercial litigation matters, including construction matters related to contract negotiations, payment disputes, mechanic’s liens, construction defects, and delay claims for owners, general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and design professionals. Alicha is also one of the only attorneys in the Commonwealth who represents heavy-duty towing and recovery companies related to highway clean up in connection with VDOT programs.
“Alicha is an exceptional attorney who demonstrates excellence in every aspect of her work,” said Gentry Locke’s Managing Partner Brett Marston. “I have no doubt she will continue to excel, motivate those around her, and leave a lasting impact throughout our legal profession.”
Alicha has been a part of the Virginia Bar Associations’ Young Lawyers Division Executive Committee for the past three years and is the Young Lawyers Division Chair-Elect. She has been named to the “Up and Coming Lawyers” list by Virginia Lawyers Weekly since 2023, named a “Legal Elite” by Virginia Business for Young Lawyers through 2019 to present, and named a “Rising Star” by Virginia Super Lawyers in 2025.
In the Roanoke community, Alicha serves as Chair of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, working to expand access to affordable housing and support neighborhood redevelopment. She also leads as President of the local chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), promoting opportunities for women in the construction industry.
Jon and Alicha were recognized at the Roanoke Bar Association’s Annual Meeting Luncheon on June 10th, 2025. A list of past presidents can be found here and winners can be found here.
About Gentry Locke
With 80 lawyers practicing across a range of disciplines, Gentry Locke brings uncommon thinking and deep experience to the legal and business challenges of companies, institutions, organizations, and individuals — a commitment the firm has met since 1923. Operating from offices in Roanoke, Lynchburg, Richmond, and Norfolk, Gentry Locke serves clients in Virginia and across the United States. Meet the firm’s dynamic attorneys and learn more about its fierce drive to achieve success for its clients by exploring our website.
