Many law students are singularly focused on securing a Big Law job after law school, believing it to be the best route to kick off their careers. Not so fast! There is no question that mega law firms can provide excellent training and serve as a springboard for subsequent career moves. However, young lawyers often overlook—or are entirely unaware of—the notable advantages that midsize law firms offer. In fact, unlike their Big Law counterparts, midsize law firms are uniquely positioned to furnish greater opportunities for hands-on experience, direct mentorship and leadership roles.

Hirschler is pleased to welcome Kevin G. Bender as a Richmond-based partner in the firm’s tax and business transactions practice. A former accountant and financial analyst, Bender advises clients on the federal tax aspects of major business and real estate transactions, including private equity investments, M&A, fund formations, real estate acquisitions and dispositions, real estate investment trust (REIT) transactions, section 1031 exchanges, joint ventures, and tax-deferred contributions.

Hirschler is excited to announce that 18 attorneys were included in the 2026 edition of the prestigious Chambers USA annual rankings, which offer client-driven insights on America's top business lawyers. Additionally, Hirschler was recognized among top-ranked firms across seven regional departments, including in Virginia’s Bankruptcy / Restructuring, Construction, and Litigation: General Commercial practice categories; in Virginia’s Northern region for Real Estate: Zoning / Land Use; and, in Virginia’s Southern region for its Corporate / M&A, Real Estate, and Real Estate: Zoning / Land Use practices.

The 2026 Virginia General Assembly session saw continued focus on electrification, distributed energy resources, and utility regulation, alongside the creation of a new cabinet-level Chief Energy Officer role. A number of energy-related measures have now been signed into law, while others were returned with amendments or carried over, reflecting an evolving policy landscape centered on affordability, reliability, and long-term system planning.