Michael Goodove was recently inducted into the Virginia Lawyers Weekly 2025 Hall of Fame, an honor that recognizes attorneys with more than 30 years of service who have made meaningful contributions to the law, the Bar, and the quality of justice in Virginia.
To mark the occasion, Virginia Lawyers Weekly asked Michael to reflect on his career, influences, and experiences along the way.
Growing up:
I’m a lifelong resident of Virginia Beach and have wonderful memories of summers at the beach with family and friends. My childhood friends are still some of my closest.
Early reviews:
Kind and hardworking.
On mentorship:
Giving back to the legal community has been an honor. Continual learning and growth are essential to the profession, and mentoring allows me to learn and grow from those I work with.
Professional accomplishment:
I was selected to serve as a substitute judge in General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. That experience gave me a broader perspective and made me a better trial lawyer.
First job:
In high school and college, I worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor. That experience taught me valuable interpersonal skills that I still use in my legal career.
Biggest challenge:
Time management. I’ve worked hard to add more hours to the day, but eventually had to accept that there are only 24, and some of that time needs to be spent sleeping.
I might have been:
That’s a good question. I became a lawyer because I didn’t do too well in pre-med.
Guilty pleasure:
Putting my phone on Do Not Disturb.
Favorite getaway:
Either in the water surfing or boating, or on a ski slope.
Next act:
Accept that there is another act in my life and embrace it.
You don’t know:
I have no rhythm, but I think that I do.
The Virginia Lawyers Weekly Hall of Fame honors attorneys who have practiced law for 30 years or more and have made meaningful contributions to the profession and the broader community. It celebrates individuals who have demonstrated excellence in their careers, helped shape the legal landscape, served the Bar and the Commonwealth, and worked to improve the quality of justice in Virginia.
Michael Goodove embodies each of these ideals. His decades of work in personal injury law, steady leadership, and service through organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving have left a lasting impact on clients and the legal community alike. His dedication to advocacy and integrity continues to set a standard for others in the field.
The 2025 induction ceremony was held on May 16 at the John Marshall Ballrooms in Richmond, where Michael was recognized alongside a distinguished group of honorees. It was a proud moment that marked a career defined by purpose, service, and meaningful contributions to justice in Virginia.