J. Cole Gayle, Jr.

Cole Gayle is a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation practice group. Prior to joining the firm as an attorney, Cole worked as a Summer Associate with Gentry Locke before graduating from the Washington and Lee University School of Law. While in law school, Cole worked as a judicial intern to Chief Judge W. Reilly Marchant. Prior to law school, he was a legal assistant and paralegal for The Consumer Law Group. Cole’s practice will focus on general commercial litigation matters.

Cole received his J.D. from the Washington and Lee University School of Law and his undergrad degree from Hampden-Sydney College.

A quick handshake

•You attended both Hampden-Sydney and Washington and Lee - Aren’t they rivals?

They are definitely rivals. I am proud of being both a Hampden-Sydney man and a W&L man, but I am a Tiger at heart! The two schools actually have a lot in common - they are both old Virginia institutions, and both schools focus on community and honor.

•What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

One of my biggest hobbies is seeing live music, especially with my dad and with friends. I also love travelling, so having something to travel for like a live show makes travel easy and fun to plan. My friends and I use live music as an excuse to meet up wherever our favorite bands are playing. We love seeing bluegrass and rock shows, but I have been on a country kick lately.

•You've chopped down over 100 trees? Tell me about that!

Before going down the path of law, I worked for a bit as an arborist. It is a tough job! Being in a dangerous industry taught me the importance of teamwork and communication, and I try to bring those lessons to my work as a lawyer.

Experience

•Assisted with researching and drafting motions, briefs, and proposed orders submitted to the court
•Assisted with contract drafting and revisions (lease, affiliate, etcetera)

Library

•Gentry Locke Adds Five New Associates to the Firm
News
Dec 2025