The Virginia law firm Gentry Locke is pleased to announce that Carlos L. Hopkins, a partner in the firm’s Government & Regulatory Affairs and White Collar Defense, Investigations & Compliance practice groups, has been appointed to two major statewide leadership roles. Hopkins has been selected to serve as Co-Chair of the Veterans & Defense Affairs Policy Committee on Governor-Elect Abigail Spanberger’s United for Virginia’s Future transition team, and has also been elected to serve as a Co-Chair on Attorney General-Elect Jay Jones’ Standing Up for Virginians transition team.
Governor-Elect Spanberger announced the formation of her transition team’s policy committees, each focused on preparing the new administration to deliver on its priorities of lowering costs, strengthening Virginia’s economy, enhancing public safety, and creating opportunities for future generations. As Co-Chair of the Veterans & Defense Affairs Policy Committee, Hopkins will help shape strategic recommendations to support Virginia’s veterans, service members, and defense-related initiatives statewide.
Attorney General-Elect Jay Jones also announced the Co-Chairs of his transition team. The group consists of distinguished leaders across the Commonwealth who share a commitment to public service, public safety, and protecting the well-being and rights of all Virginians. As a Co-Chair, Hopkins will help guide the Attorney General-Elect’s preparations to take office, supporting efforts to keep communities safe, protect Virginia jobs, and uphold fundamental rights.
“Carlos’ dedication to public service and his depth of experience make him uniquely qualified for these leadership roles,” said Gentry Locke Managing Partner Brett Marston. “We are honored to see him contribute his insight and expertise to both the Governor-Elect’s and Attorney General-Elect’s transition teams. His service will help guide the Commonwealth forward during this transition.”
Hopkins brings a lifetime of high-level public service experience to these roles. He previously served as Virginia’s Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, where he oversaw statewide programs and resources serving veterans, service members, and their families. In 2014, former Governor Terence R. McAuliffe appointed Hopkins to the Governor’s Cabinet as Counsel to the Governor, where he advised on legal, policy, and legislative matters of statewide importance.
At Gentry Locke, Hopkins combines his criminal and civil litigation background with deep Virginia government experience to help clients navigate significant litigation, regulatory issues, and government-facing challenges. He is also an integral member of Gentry Locke Consulting, a full-service legislative and public affairs, strategic communications, and consulting firm. The group partners with clients across the Commonwealth to navigate government processes, shape policy, and make meaningful, positive change throughout Virginia.