Ava E. Lias-Booker

Ava E. Lias-Booker is an accomplished trial and appellate attorney with more than three decades of experience in complex commercial and civil litigation. As a partner at McGuireWoods, she has built a strong reputation for representing businesses in high-stakes legal matters and helping clients navigate challenging disputes. Her practice focuses on business law, securities litigation, financial services litigation, environmental litigation, appeals, and business-related disputes. She is also recognized for her leadership within the legal profession and her commitment to delivering effective legal solutions.

Ava earned her J.D. from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law in 1986. Before law school, she received a B.A. from Duke University in 1982. Her education provided the knowledge and analytical skills that helped her develop into a respected lawyer and trusted advisor.

Ava has represented businesses, financial institutions, and corporate clients in complex cases at both the trial and appellate levels throughout her career. She played a key role as co-lead counsel in a major case involving a multinational oil and gas corporation, helping secure the reversal of jury verdicts that had awarded more than $1.5 billion in damages. Her work demonstrates a deep understanding of litigation strategy, legal research, and courtroom advocacy.

Ava E. Lias-Booker has contributed to the legal and healthcare communities through service on numerous boards and committees beyond representing clients. She has held leadership positions within McGuireWoods, including serving on the firm’s Board of Partners and leading diversity and inclusion efforts. She also serves on boards connected to healthcare organizations and educational institutions, helping guide governance and compliance initiatives.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McGuireWoods
• Member, Maryland State Bar Association
• Fellow, American Bar Association, Section of Litigation
• Member, National Bar Association
• Member, Monumental Bar Association
• Board of Governors, Maryland Federal Bar Association

Licensed State

• Maryland

Education

• University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Duke University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges