Manuel A. "Manny" Capsalis, president of the Virginia State Bar, spoke to a group of students and professors yesterday in the Robertson Hall Moot Court Room.Capsalis began his talk, "Professionalism and Faith in the Practice of Law," by discussing what “professionalism” means in a legal context. He encouraged the future attorneys and legal advocates present to be responsible, active agents of community service and positive change.
“The practice of law is a unique and profound privilege,” Capsalis said. “With it comes an equally profound responsibility.”
He encouraged future lawyers to “give back” to their communities and not just sit on the sidelines as their legal careers unfold.
Capsalis concluded his address by highlighting the historic role faith has played in the public and political realm, referencing Abraham Lincoln’s call to summon “the better angels of our nature” in exercising the important virtues of tolerance and reverence in and out of the courtroom.
Capsalis was admitted to the Virginia State Bar in 1988. He is a current member of the Board of Directors for the Virginia Law Foundation, the George Mason American Inn of Court and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. He is a managing partner in a law firm where he practices criminal and civil litigation and personal injury law.
Capsalis is also a substitute judge in district courts in Northern Virginia, and serves as prosecutor and deputy town attorney for the Town of Herndon. On June 20, 2008, Capsalis was sworn in as the 70th president of the Virginia State Bar.
Capsalis’ visit was sponsored by Regent's Phi Alpha Delta chapter.