Hal Johnson – Richmond, VA

Strategic Litigation and Education Counsel

Hal Johnson (Harold E. Johnson) is a distinguished partner at Williams Mullen in Richmond, Virginia, known for his dual expertise in complex litigation and education law. With a practice spanning decades, Hal serves as the Chair of the firm’s Education Practice, acting as outside general counsel for numerous colleges, universities, and independent schools. His ability to navigate the delicate balance between institutional governance, student rights, and regulatory compliance makes him a sought-after advisor for educational institutions across the Commonwealth.

Areas of Practice

Hal’s practice is highly specialized, addressing the unique needs of academic and corporate clients:

• Education Law: counseling boards on governance, Title IX investigations, FERPA privacy issues, and student conduct proceedings.
• Commercial Litigation: Representing businesses and institutions in high-stakes disputes involving contracts, business torts, and insurance coverage.
• Risk Management: Advising clients on proactive strategies to minimize liability and manage crises effectively.
• Internal Investigations: Conducting sensitive inquiries into allegations of misconduct or regulatory breaches within organizations.

Trusted by Institutions

If you need to find a lawyer who understands the nuances of higher education and corporate defense, Hal Johnson is a leader in the field:

• Board Leadership: He brings practical governance experience, serving on the Board of Trustees for Mary Baldwin University and the Commonwealth Alliance for Rural Colleges.
• Peer Recognition: consistently recognized by The Best Lawyers in America for his work in Education Law and Commercial Litigation.
• Strategic Insight: As the firm’s own General Counsel, he possesses a deep understanding of the legal and ethical challenges facing modern organizations.

Downtown Richmond Office

Hal operates from the Williams Mullen Center, a premier office tower in downtown Richmond. His central location ensures he is readily available to meet with administrators, board members, and business leaders. Whether you are facing a campus crisis or a commercial lawsuit, Hal Johnson provides the experienced, steady hand you need.