Charles W. Payne, Jr.

Charles W. Payne, Jr. is the managing partner of Hirschler’s Fredericksburg office and advises clients on corporate law, commercial real estate, land use, zoning, and government relations. A native of the Fredericksburg area, he represents businesses of all sizes, developers, contractors, nonprofit foundations, cooperatives, medical practitioners, and economic development authorities. Payne also serves as outside general counsel, helping organizations address transactions, governance, regulatory matters, development projects, and long-term business initiatives.

Payne earned his J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1997 and his B.A. from Hampden-Sydney College in 1988. His legal education, combined with extensive experience in business, real estate, and public policy, enables him to evaluate commercial goals and regulatory requirements. This background helps him guide clients through corporate decisions, land use approvals, government processes, and transactions that require practical judgment and coordination among multiple stakeholders.

Payne currently serves as general counsel to Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, Southern States Cooperative, Inc., and the University of Mary Washington Foundation. He previously served as general counsel and senior policy advisor for the U.S. Small Business Administration, where his work included the regulatory creation of the SBA’s New Markets Program and expansion of the SBA 7(a) loan program. His representative land use work includes securing approvals for major resort developments in Louisa and Spotsylvania counties.

Charles W. Payne, Jr. has been recognized by Chambers USA for real estate zoning and land use, The Best Lawyers in America for corporate, real estate, and land use and zoning law, and Virginia Business as a Legal Elite attorney. Virginia Lawyers Weekly also named him among its Leaders in Law. By combining business knowledge, government experience, and regional insight, Payne helps clients pursue development opportunities, manage regulatory challenges, and build strategies that support lasting organizational and economic growth.

Law Office Affiliations

• Managing Partner, Hirschler Fleischer, a Professional Corporation
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Virginia State Bar
• Member, Fredericksburg Bar Association

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• The Thomas M. Cooley Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Hampden-Sydney College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)