VADA Member Spotlight

This month’s spotlighted VADA member is Brian Casey of Clarke, Dolph, Hull & Brunick, PLC in Virginia Beach.  Brian is a graduate of the College of William & Mary and the Emory University School of Law.  Brian served as President of VADA from 2016-2017.  He also has been a frequent speaker at VADA seminars and workshops on topics germane to his areas of expertise.

1.         Where were you born?

Suffolk, Virginia, but my family moved to Hanover County before I was one year old, so I have no memories of Suffolk. We also lived in Richmond and Fairfax County during my youth.

2.         Tell us a little about yourself.  Spouse? Children? Pets?

I met my wife, Julianne in Manhattan, and convinced her to move to Norfolk.  She is an interior designer and a Randolph-Macon Woman’s College graduate.  We have two girls and a boy who are in their late teens through early twenties, and two dogs, a tortoise, and an aquarium of tropical saltwater fish. Since it is summer, I am often playing beach volleyball or bike riding.

3.         What type of law do you practice?

Civil litigation, mostly defense, including police officer liability, motor vehicle accident, premises liability, and insurance coverage.

4.         What do you like most about practicing law?

Each case has a story, sometimes a very interesting one with fascinating characters, and presents a challenge to confront or mystery to solve.  And most of the lawyers I get to work with are delightful.

5.         How long have you been a member of VADA?

Since sometime in the 1990’s.  A long time.

6.         What have you enjoyed most about your time in VADA?

Fellowship and fun with great people who I learn from.

7.         What was your undergraduate major?

Double: Philosophy and Religion.

8.         What was your first job?

Other than the jobs you have as a kid, mowing lawns and washing cars, it was dishwashing in a restaurant which did not last long because one of the cooks got fired and suddenly, I was cooking food (with very little training)!

9.         What is the last movie or TV show you binge watched?

TV show: White House Plumbers, about Watergate “masterminds” G. Gordon Liddy and E. Howard Hunt.

10.       What TV or movie line do you find yourself quoting most often?

“There’s no place like home.” Dorothy Gale, 1939.

11.       What is at the top of your bucket list?         

Hiking in Patagonia.

12.       When I am not at the office, I like to …

Spend time with the family, taking trips, skiing, socializing with friends.

13.       What was the year, make, and model of your first car?

1976 Alfa Romeo Spider.  It is also the year, make and model of my second car.

14.       If I wasn’t practicing law, I would be …

Doing something in adventure travel.

15.       What is your favorite food and drink?

Can’t name a favorite.

16.       What would your courtroom walk up music be?

“(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding?” Elvis Costello & The Attractions.

17.       What is your favorite travel spot?

Alaska

18.       What is your favorite way to unwind after a long day at work?

Hang out with family and friends, ride a bike, play with the dogs.

19.       What quality do you admire most in other attorneys?

Integrity.

20.       What is your definition of success?

Helping others feel good.