VADA Member Spotlight

This month’s spotlighted VADA member is Walker Terry of Byrne Canaan Law in Richmond.  Walker is a graduate of Washington and Lee University and Penn State Dickenson Law.

1.         Where were you born?

Richmond, VA

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

We have a busy, full house. My wife, Victoria, is a family law attorney. We have two children, ages 3 and 6, and two cats.

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

Since 2015.

4.         What type of law do you practice?

Medical malpractice defense and general litigation.

5.         What do you like most about practicing law?

I like the variety and excitement that comes with it. Even in a specific practice area, every case is different, with unique facts and legal questions. I enjoy the challenge and learning something new every day.

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

The meetings and social events are the best part of VADA. You get to catch up with colleagues and have fun, while learning from others in your field.

7.         What was the make and model of your first car?

My first and favorite car was a black Jeep Grand Cherokee.

8.         What is your favorite travel spot?

My favorite one-time travel destination was Italy for sure. For repeat trips, the Chesapeake Bay area tops the list.

9.         What TV show or movie can you watch over and over, no matter how many times you have seen it?

Depends on the day, but Wedding Crashers or anything similar from the early 2000’s if in the mood for a comedy.

10.       What was your first job?

Pharmacy clerk and cashier.

11.       If you were to walk into my office, one of the first things you would notice would be …

A copious amount of partially used legal pads, and an impressive collection of family photos if you got past the legal pads.

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

My free time is mostly full with the kids’ activities these days, but I enjoy long runs and training for races when I can.

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

Probably a teacher, which is what I first wanted to be when I grew up.

14.       What is your courtroom walk up music?

Led Zeppelin, Allman Brothers Band, or country from twenty years ago.

15.       What do you consider to be your biggest professional accomplishment thus far?

My first solo trial has to top the list.

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

An ultra marathon and/or significant hike like the Appalachian Trail

17.       In what section of a bookstore is someone most likely to find you?

Nonfiction, specifically true crime or history.

18.       What talent or skill do you wish you had?

Good handwriting and anything artistic.

19.       What is your biggest pet peeve?

Being late.

20.       What advice would you give to someone who just passed the bar?

Take advantage and make the most of every job opportunity you have, even if it’s not what you want, and you ultimately move on. Building experience is the best thing you can do for your legal career, and you will be surprised how well skills and experience transfer from one position to the next.