Biography
I was born and raised in Harrisonburg, and my connection to this community continues to guide the way I practice law. I served here as a deputy sheriff / police officer, have practiced law here since 2008, and have remained involved locally through service to the community as a board member to different organizations and a coach. My law enforcement background experiences have given me valuable insight into how criminal cases are investigated and prosecuted.
I am the third generation of my family to practice law in Harrisonburg and the greater Shenandoah Valley. My grandfather and father practiced law in Harrisonburg before later serving on the local bench at the district and circuit court levels.
As a criminal defense attorney, I represent clients in both federal and state courts with a primary focus in the Shenandoah Valley. My trial experience is extensive. Over the years, I have defended clients against some of the most serious and complex criminal accusations, including financial crimes, premeditated murder, multi-level drug conspiracies, sexual offenses, computer crimes, and many other charges.
I have appeared in courts throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, including the Court of Appeals of Virginia and before the Supreme Court of Virginia. I have obtained many favorable outcomes before both judges and juries.
No matter what the accusation, I take the time to examine the evidence carefully and develop a defense strategy that reflects the facts of the case and the client's individual goals.
My interest in the courtroom began at an early age at the age of ten, I began attending jury trials and became fascinated by the trial process, watching the attorneys, judges, witnesses, and the way each case unfolded.
Outside the courtroom, I enjoy traveling, golfing, and spending time with my family. I live in Rockingham County, Virginia, with my wife. Our older children have begun their own careers and college journeys, while our youngest still lives at home with us, along with our dog, Oliver, and our rescued cats.
When you are facing a criminal charge, you deserve an attorney who knows your case, values your trust, and is prepared to fight for the best possible outcome. My experience trying serious cases best allows me to provide focused, personal, and effective representation when it matters most.
Education
- Appalachian School of Law, Grundy, Virginia
- J.D. - 2006
- Bridgewater College, Bridgewater, Virginia
- B.S. - 2003
- Major: Political Science
Classes & Seminars
Pro-Bono Activities
Representative Clients
References
Past Positions
- GravesWhetzel Law, PLLC, Partner, 2017 to 2026
- Law Office of Andrew C. Graves, PLLC, 2008 to 2017
- Commercial Title Group, Inc., 2006 to 2008
- Broadway Police Department, 2002 to 2003
- Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, 1996 to 2002
- Rockingham Education Foundation Inc., Board of Directors
Languages
Ancillary Businesses
Published Works
- Tina Marie Bryant v. Commonwealth, Virginia Court of Appeals Record No. 0922-16-3, Criminal, 2017
- Tina Marie Bryant v. Commonwealth, Supreme Court of Virginia, Record No. 170712
Fraternities or Sororities
Professional Associations
- Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
- National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
Certified Legal Specialties
Current Employment Position
Practice Areas
- Criminal Defense
- DUI & Driving Offenses
- College Student Defense
Bar Admissions
- Virginia, 2008
- U.S. District Court Western District of Virginia, 2009
- U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit
Honors
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100, 2013 - 2018


