Attorney David J. Dischley is the Managing Partner of Dischley Law, PLLC and a criminal defense trial attorney with nearly 20 years of experience representing individuals charged with criminal offenses throughout Virginia. He regularly represents clients in both state and federal courts in matters ranging from traffic offenses and DUI cases to serious felony and federal criminal matters.
Attorney Dischley brings a unique perspective to criminal defense based on experience developed from multiple sides of the justice system. As a former prosecutor, intelligence community professional, military veteran, and trial attorney, he understands how investigations are conducted, how evidence is developed, and how prosecutors evaluate and prepare cases. That experience provides clients with insight into both the legal and practical realities of defending criminal charges.
Attorney Dischley graduated from George Mason University School of Law in 2006. While attending law school, he clerked with the Loudoun County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and gained significant courtroom experience early in his legal career. During his third year of law school, while practicing under the supervision of licensed attorneys, he took a lead role in more than 100 bench trials and 10 jury trials. Prior to graduation, he also served as third chair in a prominent murder prosecution.
Following law school, Attorney Dischley joined the Loudoun County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office as an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, where he prosecuted a broad range of criminal matters, including DUI offenses, narcotics cases, violent crimes, and felony offenses. During that time, he worked alongside investigators on cold homicide investigations and advised the Loudoun County Narcotics Unit. He was also the recipient of the Victim Witness Award in recognition of his work and service.
Attorney Dischley later accepted a position within the intelligence community where he focused on criminal and narcotics issues affecting national security interests. His responsibilities included work involving financial crimes, money laundering operations, international narcotics organizations, and related criminal activity. Although recognized for his work in these areas, he ultimately returned to the courtroom and continued prosecutorial work with the Fauquier County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. While serving there, he prosecuted matters in General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, and Circuit Court, while also advising the Blue Ridge Narcotics Task Force.
Before entering the legal profession, Attorney Dischley served in the United States Marine Corps with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in Okinawa, Japan and Headquarters and Service Battalion at Quantico, Virginia, ultimately attaining the rank of Corporal. His military service continues to shape his approach to the practice of law through discipline, preparation, and commitment to the people he represents. Attorney Dischley remains closely connected to the veteran community and is a fully service-connected disabled veteran.
While serving in the Marine Corps and after completing his military service, Attorney Dischley continued pursuing his education and professional development. He earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Administration of Justice from Northern Virginia Community College, graduating cum laude, and later graduated from George Mason University with distinction, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Administration of Justice. Prior to founding Dischley Law, he practiced with Bose Law Firm, PLLC, a respected Northern Virginia litigation firm.
Attorney Dischley has received recognition from clients, peers, and legal organizations throughout his career. He maintains Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent rating, the organization’s highest peer-review distinction for legal ability and ethics, as well as an AVVO Superb rating. He has been selected to Super Lawyers and was previously recognized as a Rising Star. Additional recognitions include National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, membership in the National College for DUI Defense, and various commendations for public service and trial advocacy.
Attorney Dischley believes that criminal charges often affect far more than a courtroom appearance. Employment, professional licenses, security clearances, family relationships, and personal reputation may all be impacted. He approaches every case with the understanding that each client deserves individual attention, careful preparation, and a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts and circumstances involved.
Attorney Dischley is licensed to practice before all Virginia state courts and the United States District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia.
