Michael Hess

Michael Hess (Mike) is an associate attorney at Maddox & Gerock, P.C. in Falls Church Virginia. Mike has spent his entire time as an attorney working on family law matters, so he is keenly aware of the complex legal and emotional issues involved. He is deeply committed to helping his clients navigate one of the most challenging experiences of their lives, and doing all he can to make the process as painless as possible. Mike understands the importance of finding creative solutions, and listening carefully to every client’s individual needs, so a strategy can be tailored to suit each unique case.

Mike handles all areas of family law, including custody, child support, and property distribution. He has particular experience and interest in complex custody cases, having handled cases involving allegations of domestic violence, and cases with complex physical and mental health needs, for both children and adults.  

Prior to attending law school, Mike worked on Capitol Hill for more than five years, handling legislation for multiple Members of Congress. His experience with the legislative process gives him additional insight into ways the Code of Virginia can be interpreted and applied to benefit his clients. Mike’s time in politics also showed him the dangers of egos taking over, and individuals becoming so entrenched in a position that the perfect becomes the enemy of the good. He now works with clients to avoid those pitfalls and prevent an already difficult process from becoming overly contentious. At the same time, Mike zealously defends the interest of his client, and does not hesitate to do so through effective argument in the courtroom.  

Mike graduated with a Bachelor of Sciences in Political Science and History from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA, where he helped found the Drexel University Mock Trial Association. He obtained his Juris Doctor from the George Mason University School of Law and is licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Mike is a member of the Virginia State Bar, the Arlington County Bar Association, the Fairfax Bar Association, and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association.

Mike was born and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia and remains an avid fan of all Philly sports teams. In his free time, he enjoys exploring and photographing the outdoors. He lives in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife and her cat.