M. Tolley Gwinn

As legal issues arise, Tolley helps local governments understand their options, chart a course of action, and, when necessary, defend their decisions.

Tolley is an associate in the government group who counsels local government clients on a variety of general legal issues. With experience in administrative law matters, including federal procurement law and grant law, he provides guidance to public entities on everything from contracts and procurement to open records and meetings compliance, conflicts of interest, and public records management.

In addition, Tolley is an experienced litigator who has defended his clients in state and federal court as well as before various agencies. He has successfully appealed adverse Small Business Administration determinations, Contracting Officer’s Final Decisions, and procurement decisions.

As a former infantry officer in the United States Army, Tolley understands mission-focused organizations and how to navigate the challenges of appeasing multiple parties with differing responsibilities and priorities. He works with his clients, starting with the end goal in mind, to find the solutions that best accomplish the goals of each governmental entity while also respecting the needs and concerns of its various constituencies.

When not in the office, Tolley is often found helping first generation college students develop career plans and prepare job or graduate school applications or spending time with his family and friends at one of Richmond’s many beautiful parks.