2013 Legal Elite profile: Legislative/Regulatory/Administrative

Dale G. Mullen

McGuireWoods LLP
Richmond

Title: Partner
Other legal specialties: Environmental law, civil litigation, land use, natural resources, public utilities, animal agriculture
Birthplace: Danville, Ill.
Education: Bluefield College, bachelor’s degree (summa cum laude); University of Richmond,
T.C. Williams School of Law, law degree (cum laude)
Spouse: Victoria
Children: Jacob, 19; Thomas, 15
Hobbies or pastimes: “Playing music with my sons and enjoying the Virginia outdoors.”
First job as a lawyer:  “When I was still in law school, Jim Comey helped me get a position at a firm that represented businesses, health-care providers, and other professionals.  I was placed on a trial team and this early experience was a tremendous opportunity to learn how to prepare complicated cases with expert testimony in a short period of time.  Working under the scrutiny of clients, insurance companies, and experienced litigators taught me how to complete high-quality work efficiently, effectively and economically.”        
Fan of: Golf, camping, skiing, hunting, fishing
Favorite vacation spot: Florida Keys or any Virginia ski resort 
Recently read book:  “The Curmudgeons: South Georgia Stories of Risk and Redemption” by Tom Word
Career mentors: “I am grateful to more mentors than I could mention.  Chief among them are David E. Evans, John M. Fitzpatrick, James B. Comey, and John G. Douglass.”

How has your experience in government contributed to your practice?
“Businesses need workable solutions, not complicated disputes.  My experience with the Office of the Attorney General, as a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) and as a county attorney, provided the opportunity to participate in a variety of disputes including complex federal, state and local matters.  Understanding the role of litigation and the legislative, regulatory and enforcement component of each segment of government helps me see the opportunities for practical environmental and regulatory solutions for business clients.”   

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