John Gardner

John Gardner is a seasoned trial attorney at Gardner & Mendoza, P.C., with more than 18 years of experience representing clients in Virginia State Courts and the Federal Court. He has handled thousands of criminal and traffic cases across Hampton Roads, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Newport News, earning a reputation as a strong advocate before both judges and juries.

John earned his Bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University in 1991 and obtained his Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1998. Admitted to the Virginia State Bar in 1999, he later gained admission to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in 2001 and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in 2008. In 2005, John further honed his trial skills by completing the Trial Advocacy Institute at the University of Virginia School of Law.

Certified by the Virginia Indigent Defense Commission, John defends clients in a wide range of cases, from DUI, larceny, and assault charges to more complex federal crimes. A former member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), he also provides guidance on how criminal charges can impact immigration status, trains fellow attorneys, and advising non-U.S. citizen clients facing criminal proceedings.

In addition to his legal practice, John has been a speaker at Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses sponsored by the Virginia State Bar and local bar associations. His expertise has been sought on NPR’s “Hearsay” with Cathy Lewis, and he has taught as an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University. He has also served as a lead instructor at the University of Virginia and a judge for moot court competitions at Regent University.

Through his trial work, teaching, and community engagement, John Gardner continues to provide skilled, dedicated advocacy to clients facing serious legal challenges in Virginia.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Gardner & Mendoza, P.C.
• Member, Virginia State Bar
• Past Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• Seton Hall University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• The Ohio State University
  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Awards & Badges