2025 In-House Counsel Awards: Joyvan L. Malbon-Griffin

Number of years with firm: 8

Law school: North Carolina Central School of Law (2009)

Legal leadership: Throughout my career, I have sought to lead with vision by providing meaningful education, risk management guidance, and advocacy for attorneys. As regional director and claims attorney with Minnesota Lawyers Mutual, I have created and developed nearly 50 new CLE programs for the company and have delivered hundreds of CLEs across the country, many tailored to provide malpractice prevention guidance to Virginia lawyers. By offering these practical, accessible programs, I have helped prevent major malpractice claims and saved the company hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Pro bono work/community or civic involvement: Civic engagement and service have always been central to my personal and professional journey. I serve International Legal Advisor and general counsel for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and I am a board member of the Urban League of Hampton Roads. I am also engaged with the James Kent Inns of Court and the CLE Committee of the Norfolk Portsmouth Bar Association. I regularly volunteer at local food drives and back-to-school supply drives, and I take on pro bono criminal cases. I especially love working with the youth in my church as the Vacation Bible School Coordinator each year.

On my identity/background: As the first attorney in my family, I knew I was paving a new path. Growing up as a Black woman in this profession, I’ve learned to see challenges as catalysts for resilience and growth. My background taught me that every client and every case deserves diligence, empathy, and unwavering professionalism.

Evolution of the IHC position: A shift toward a more proactive and strategic function.