Richard S. Mendelson

Rick was a third generation Alexandrian, who graduated from George Washington High School. After graduating from the University of Virginia and its School of Law, he began his legal career in 1969 with the law firm of Fagelson, Schonberger, Billowitz & Grenadier in Alexandria, focusing on real estate law. In 1975, he joined the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and became the Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Alexandria in 1981, serving the community as a prosecutor for ten years. He joined Land, Clark, Carroll and Mendelson in 1985, and worked diligently with us almost until his passing in May, 2016, simply because he loved the practice of law.

Rick was the consummate gentleman lawyer, who was a model of collegial, ethical conduct, handling each matter with grace and zealousness. He was an active member of the Alexandria Bar, and was elected its president in 1992. He was also active in the Virginia State Bar, serving on Bar Council from 1993 – 1999 and instructing on continuing legal education seminars on ethics, evidence and real estate disputes. Rick was also a special receiver by appointment of the court in certain matters involving deceased, disabled, missing or disbarred attorneys. He served as a member of the board of directors of Beth El House, a non-profit community service organization providing temporary housing for homeless or abused mothers and their children. Service to the law and community was his passion and it was reflected in everything he did.

He is sorely missed by the firm and community.