Hugh M. Fain, III

Hugh M. Fain, III is an attorney and shareholder at Spotts Fain PC in Richmond, Virginia, where he has worked as a civil litigator and dispute resolver for more than 40 years. He focuses his practice on commercial and business litigation. He represents clients in lawsuits and disputes involving major contract breaches, corporate governance, business torts, employment law discrimination, construction, real estate, trusts and estates, intellectual property, and conflicts among shareholders, members, or partners. He is licensed in Virginia and Texas.

Hugh earned his B.A. in Economics with distinction from Virginia Military Institute in 1980. He received his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1983, where he belonged to the Raven Society. He is admitted to practice in Virginia and Texas. He has tried cases in state and federal courts, argued before Virginia appellate courts and federal circuit courts, and handled proceedings before administrative agencies, including the Virginia State Corporation Commission.

Hugh evaluates both the legal merits and business effects of a dispute before recommending a strategy. He understands that prolonged litigation can disrupt a company and burden its leadership. He therefore considers negotiation and other resolution methods while remaining prepared for trial or appeal. He has served as president of the Virginia Bar Association and the Richmond Bar Association. He also served on the Virginia Military Institute Board of Visitors from July 2017 through June 2025, and he currently serves as a Commissioner in Chancery for the Henrico County Circuit Court.

Hugh M. Fain, III combines extensive courtroom experience with leadership in Virginia’s legal and civic communities. He is a Fellow of the Virginia Law Foundation and has received recognition from Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America, Virginia Super Lawyers, and Virginia Business magazine. He entered the Virginia Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame in 2024 and received the Virginia Bar Association’s Walker Award of Merit in 2016. His careful risk assessment, practical judgment, and ability to manage complex disputes support clients seeking informed and durable solutions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Spotts Fain PC
• Past President, Virginia Bar Association
• Past President, Richmond Bar Association

Licensed State

• Virginia
• Texas

Education

• University of Virginia School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Virginia Military Institute
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)