2020 Legal Elite — Legislative/Regulatory/Administrative Profile

Daniel C. Summerlin III, Woods Rogers PLC, Richmond, Roanoke

Published November 30, 2020 by Virginia Business

Title: President, principal
Other legal specialties: Employment law
Birthplace: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Education: Bachelor’s degree, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; law degree, William & Mary
Spouse: Laura Summerlin
Children: Taylor, 20; Cabell, 20; Callie, 19; Tye, 18; Caroline, 17; and Lane, 15
First job as a lawyer: Woods Rogers PLC — I never left!
Fan of: UNC Tar Heels; Washington Football Team; Roush Fenway Racing
Recently read book: “Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood,” by Trevor Noah; “The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief,” by Francis Collins; and “The Brothers of Auschwitz,” by Malka Adler
Hobbies or pastimes: Swimming, traveling, banjo
Favorite vacation spot: Topsail Island, North Carolina
Career mentors: Paul Thomson, Bill Poff, Linwood Wells
How do you divide your responsibilities as an attorney and serving as president/principal of your firm?
It is a balancing act that is constantly evolving depending on what is happening at the firm or with clients. It is also an opportunity to put into practice what I am often counseling clients to do.
What are some of the challenges associated with transferring brownfield redevelopments?
Evaluating, quantifying and bracketing the risk so that all parties are comfortable enough to complete the deal.