John Whitbeck

John C. Whitbeck, Jr. is the Founder and Managing Partner of WhitbeckBeglis, a Virginia-based law firm focused on high-stakes family law, special education law, mental health law, civil litigation, and criminal defense matters.With more than 23 years of experience — including service as a Substitute Judge and Special Justice in Virginia — John brings a rare dual perspective to every case: seasoned trial lawyer and former decision-maker. He has presided over civil, criminal, and family law matters and conducted civil commitment hearings, giving him deep insight into how courts analyze evidence and credibility.Clients turn to John when the stakes are deeply personal: custody disputes, complex divorce, involuntary commitment proceedings, special education conflicts, and serious litigation. He has been certified as an expert witness and has served as a Special Prosecutor in the Loudoun County General District Court.John is also a former professor at the George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School and former Director of its Law and Mental Illness Clinic, where he provided pro bono representation to families navigating psychiatric commitment proceedings.He has been quoted or appeared on major media outlets including Fox News Channel, CNN, NPR, and The Washington Post.John leads WhitbeckBeglis with a focus on courtroom excellence, client-centered advocacy, and building a team of attorneys committed to practicing law at the highest level.