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Ethics & Conflict of Interest Guidance for Public Officials

Public officials and board members in Virginia face unique ethical and legal responsibilities. One misstep in conflict disclosure or recusal can derail public business, draw public scrutiny, or invalidate decisions. Lemmon & Hale, PLLC provides prompt, practical legal counsel on ethics and conflict of interests compliance, helping towns, counties, and authorities navigate these rules with clarity and confidence.

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What We Do

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Pre-Meeting Ethics Review:

Assess potential conflicts in advance—covering contracts, votes, business interests, and family ties.


Disclosure & Recusal Support:

Step-by-step guidance on filing required disclosures, drafting statements for the record, and knowing when to abstain.


Ethics Training for Boards & Commissions:

Tailored workshops and briefings that turn complex rules into practical scenarios your board will recognize.


Documentation & Opinion Letters:

Written guidance and advisory opinions that boards and officials can keep on file for future reference and audit defense.


Procurement & Gifts Compliance:

Ongoing counsel on common “gray area” issues, including gifts, outside employment, and procurement participation.

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Common Scenarios We Review

  • Should I recuse myself from a vote if my spouse’s company is bidding on a contract?
  • What counts as a “material financial interest” under Virginia’s Conflict of Interests Act?
  • How do I disclose a distant family relationship or prior business dealing?
  • What gifts or meals can a board member accept from vendors or applicants?
  • How do I handle a late-discovered conflict during an ongoing project or procurement?

Why Local Officials Choose Lemmon & Hale

  • Fast answers—often within the same business day—so your meetings stay on track.
  • Experienced counsel for boards and public bodies across Front Royal, Warren County, and the broader Shenandoah Valley.
  • Written rationales and advisory memos for the record—building a transparent, defensible decision trail.

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Don’t let confusion or fear about ethics and conflicts slow down your public service.

Contact Lemmon & Hale, PLLC for actionable, confidential counsel—before, during, or after your board’s next decision.

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