Robert H. Chappell, III

Robert H. Chappell, III is an attorney and shareholder at Spotts Fain PC in Richmond, Virginia, where he focuses on creditors’ rights, bankruptcy law, insolvency, and financial services. He represents lenders throughout commercial credit transactions, from loan origination through workouts, restructuring, and recovery. He also advises local businesses, particularly community banks, and handles bankruptcy litigation and other disputes involving distressed assets. His recent work includes secured loan restructurings, Chapter 7 trustee representation, Chapter 11 sales, asset purchases, and major credit problems tied to real estate developments, hotels, condominiums, and golf courses.

Robert earned his B.A. in English and History from the University of Virginia. He received his J.D. from the College of William and Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law. He is admitted in Virginia, the US District Courts and Bankruptcy Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, and the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. After law school, he served as a law clerk to US Bankruptcy Judge Hal J. Bonney, Jr. in Norfolk, Virginia.

Robert brings extensive experience to complex financing and insolvency matters. He has represented regional lenders in multimillion-dollar loan restructurings, debtors selling real property through bankruptcy, purchasers acquiring assets in Chapter 11 cases, and creditors involved in major reorganization proceedings. He also helps clients assess practical risks, protect collateral, negotiate workable terms, and pursue recovery when a borrower or business faces financial distress. His understanding of commercial lending and bankruptcy procedure supports strategies suited to each client’s financial and operational goals.

Robert H. Chappell, III combines legal experience with professional leadership and community service. He is a director of Froehling & Robertson, Incorporated, and he previously served on the Richmond Bar Association’s board and chaired its Bankruptcy Section from 2003 to 2004. He has been recognized by Chambers USA for Bankruptcy and Restructuring from 2024 through 2026, by Best Lawyers in America from 2011 through 2026, and by Virginia Super Lawyers from 2008 through 2026. His preparation and practical judgment help clients manage difficult financial matters with clarity.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Spotts Fain PC
• Member, Virginia Bar Association
• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute
• Member, Virginia Creditors Bar Association
• Member, Bar Association of the City of Richmond

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• The College of William and Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Virginia
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)