Martin is a local government attorney who supports cities, towns, and other entities on myriad issues facing local governments. Based in Manassas, in the heart of Prince William County, Martin works with clients in Northern Virginia and throughout the Commonwealth.

With more than 30 years of experience, Martin has a near encyclopedic knowledge of state and town codes, case law, and local practice. He is known for developing longstanding relationships with his clients and supporting their complete legal needs.

His experience counseling local governments ranges from issues such as land use development, code enforcement, and eminent domain, to administrative matters including the Freedom of Information Act and Virginia Public Procurement Act. He also has a deep understanding of water and sewer, electric utilities, social services, and municipal franchises. In addition, he provides counsel regarding tax valuation and collection.

As an avid bicyclist, hiker, and craft beer connoisseur, Martin enjoys exploring the localities he has the privilege of serving.

Practice Areas

Education & Admissions

Education

T.C. Williams School of Law
J.D., 1991

Duke University
B.A., 1984

Admissions

Virginia

Eastern District of Virginia

U.S. Supreme Court

Honors & Recognitions

"Legal Elite", Virginia Business magazine in Legislative/Administrative/Government Law, 2020-2023

Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating

2016 Local Government Attorneys of Virginia Special Project Award (Ad Hoc Sign Ordinance Committee)

Experience

  • Shepherded the sale of a 300-acre parcel to a consortium of federal, state and private parties that resulted in the creation of a nature preserve
  • Drafted a model sign ordinance to address constitutional issues raised by US Supreme Court precedent
  • Facilitated the conversion of a derelict water treatment plant into a pocket park
  • Enabled the preservation of a mobile home park that was unable to afford necessary upgrades to its water and sewer systems
  • Defended the closure of a water reservoir to boat traffic against a challenge from an adjacent property owner
  • Comprehensively modernized zoning ordinances
  • Successfully defended the designation of a road contractor as “non-responsible” under the Virginia Public Procurement Act

Affiliations

Community

Manassas Community and Policy Management Team, 1994 – 2011 (Chair, 1995-1999)

Matthews Center for Visual Learning, Board of Directors, 2013-2021

Bull Run Unitarian Universalists, Settled Minister Search Committee 2003-2004 and 2016-2018, Secretary 2004-2006, President 2019-2021

Professional

Chair, Local Government Attorneys of Virginia Practice Group for Social Services, 2013-2022

Prince William County Bar Association

Culpeper County Bar Association

Local Government Attorneys of Virginia, Board Member 2023-2025

News & Insights

  • “Martin’s knowledge in municipal law provides us with expertise in not only routine matters but complex situations as well.”

    Chris Hively, Town of Culpeper
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