FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2025

City of Charlottesville Announces New Managing Director of City Attorney's Office

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – John Maddux joined the City of Charlottesville today, Wednesday, May 14, as Managing Director of the City Attorney’s Office. He comes to Charlottesville from Asheville, North Carolina, where he served for more than a decade as Deputy City Attorney. Maddux’s application for admission to the Virginia State Bar has been approved, and upon being sworn in by the Virginia Supreme Court and appointment by the Charlottesville City Council, he will formally assume the title of City Attorney.

Maddux brings a broad range of legal experience in both the public and private sectors. Prior to his tenure in Asheville, he worked in New York City in corporate law, and also served in the Raleigh City Attorney’s Office with a focus on environmental law.

While in Asheville, Maddux provided counsel on a wide array of municipal legal issues, including employment law, land use and zoning, policing, and complex intergovernmental matters. He was part of the legal team that led the City’s response to numerous high-profile crises, including a major police misconduct incident, the COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest following the death of George Floyd, and Hurricane Helene.

Internally, Maddux played a key role in modernizing Asheville’s personnel systems. He led reforms to the City’s Civil Service rules to promote fair and merit-based employment practices and was known for his collaborative approach with colleagues across departments.

“The best legal work in local government happens through strong partnerships with council, staff, and the community,” said Maddux. “I’m looking forward to bringing that approach to Charlottesville.”

Maddux holds bachelor’s degrees in music performance and music industry studies from Appalachian State University, a Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law, and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from New York University School of Law.

He and his wife, Rita, a special education teacher, have been married for 19 years and have three children: Asa, Simone, and Cal.

Media Contact:
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications & Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
media@charlottesville.gov