Edward D. Barnes

Edward D. Barnes is the founder of Barnes & Diehl, P.C., and a widely respected Virginia family law attorney. His practice centers on complex divorce, custody, support, and marital agreement matters. For decades, he has represented individuals and families in trial and appellate courts, guiding clients through high-conflict disputes with strategic advocacy, ethical judgment, and disciplined preparation focused on long-term legal and financial outcomes for diverse Virginia communities.

Edward earned his J.D. from the University of Richmond School of Law and his B.A. from East Carolina University. His legal education emphasized ethics, trial practice, and domestic relations. He later served on advisory councils and as adjunct faculty, contributing to legal education statewide. This academic foundation supports his precise analysis, courtroom skill, and ability to explain complex family law issues clearly to clients in varied contested proceedings and appeals.

Throughout his career, Edward has handled significant family law cases, shaping Virginia precedent. He is known for leadership in professional organizations, judicial education, and law reform efforts. Clients benefit from his experience in litigation, negotiation, and settlement strategy, particularly in high asset and high stakes matters. His work consistently prioritizes fairness, efficiency, and protecting client interests during emotionally demanding legal proceedings across trial courts and appellate venues statewide in Virginia.

Edward D. Barnes is recognized for disciplined advocacy, professionalism, and mentorship within the legal community. He approaches each matter with careful preparation, realistic counsel, and respect for the court process. By combining deep legal knowledge with practical judgment, he helps clients make informed decisions and resolve disputes effectively. His long-standing commitment to family law reflects a career devoted to integrity, leadership, and meaningful results for families throughout Virginia across generations statewide.

Law Office Affiliations

• CEO/Shareholder, Barnes & Diehl, P.C.
• Chairman, The National Center for Family Law Studies
• Member, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Family Law Section
• Judge, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, National Trial Advocacy Competition (2006)
• Member, Richmond Bar Association
• Member, Virginia State Bar, Family Law Section, Law Practice Management Division (2006)
• Member, Virginia Bar Association, Family Law Section
• Leadership Patron, Virginia Bar Association Foundation (2005)
• Past Chair, Board of Governors, Virginia State Bar, Family Law Section (2005)
• Member, Virginia Bar Association Committee, Special Issues (2000)
• Associate Editor, The Virginia Bar Association Journal (1975)
• Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (Chicago)

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• University of Richmond, The T. C. Williams School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• East Carolina University
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges