In this episode of Just Virginia, Court of Appeals of Virginia Judge Daniel Ortiz shares the personal journey that led him from UVA, Capitol Hill, and commercial litigation to the bench, along with the experiences that deepened his commitment to public service and access to justice. Judge Ortiz also offers a thoughtful look at recent developments from the Supreme Court of Virginia, including leadership changes, closely watched split decisions, trade secrets litigation, sovereign immunity, and appellate trends. Join CEO Alison Martin and our distinguished guest for a wide-ranging conversation about fairness, judgment, and the role lawyers and courts play in sustaining confidence in the Rule of Law. 
 
Beyond the Episode 

• Get to know the Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz.* 

• Join Judge Ortiz for CLE August 26 in Charlottesville or via webcast. 
  What’s New at the Virginia Supreme Court? An Overview of Recent Civil Decisions 2026 

• Want to learn more about the Court of Appeals? You can even livestream the oral arguments. 

 
* Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz, Court of Appeals of Virginia, Richmond 

Hon. Daniel E. Ortiz completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia and received his law degree from the George Washington University Law School. He began his legal career at the Fairfax County Circuit Court, clerking for the Honorable M. Langhorne Keith. At the conclusion of his clerkship, Judge Ortiz joined Blankingship & Keith, P.C., where he became a shareholder and principal at the firm. Judge Ortiz was appointed to serve an eight-year term as a circuit court judge that began on January 1, 2015. In August 2021, Judge Ortiz was appointed to serve on the Court of Appeals of Virginia. 
Judge Ortiz was a member of the Board of Directors of the Fairfax Bar Association and the Board of Governors of The Virginia Bar Association and was selected by his peers to chair both the Young Lawyers Section of the Fairfax Bar Association and the Young Lawyers Division of the VBA. He previously served as a Substitute Judge in the General District Court and Juvenile Domestic Relations District Court for five years in Fairfax County. Recently, Judge Ortiz was selected to serve on the Virginia Access to Justice Commission. He is a member of the faculty of the Harry L. Carrico Professionalism Course. Judge Ortiz is also a former board member and president of Legal Services of Northern Virginia.

The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It does not reflect the views of the Virginia Law Foundation, its Board of Directors, or its leadership and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Listeners should not act or refrain from acting based on any information presented without seeking professional legal counsel specific to their individual circumstances. While we strive to ensure accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of any information shared. This podcast may include references to laws and regulations that are subject to change. Always consult a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your situation.