Office of University Counsel
The Office of University Counsel (OUC) supports William & Mary, including all of its offices and departments, by providing a wide array of legal services. Specifically, the OUC provides legal advice and guidance to W&M's Board of Visitors, executives, administrators, faculty, staff, and sometimes students, all in their official capacities.
University Counsel and Associate University Counsel are appointed by the Attorney General of Virginia to represent W&M. Those serving in university-sanctioned roles might turn to the OUC for guidance navigating the following areas of law: Constitutional, Corporate Governance, Contracts, Employment, FERPA, Intellectual Property, Torts, Civil and Criminal Litigation, and Tax, among others.
The OUC strives to provide timely and ethical legal advice about the broad array of legal issues that face a modern, public, liberal arts and research university. By offering practical advice that helps clients address existing and potential legal matters and liabilities, the OUC aims to support W&M’s vibrant and innovative community as it advances through its fourth century.
The OUC is prohibited from providing personal legal advice.
About the Attorney General
The Attorney General of Virginia provides all legal services to the officers, agencies, and employees of the Commonwealth, with limited exceptions; these services are delivered by appointed assistant attorneys general. The University Counsel and Associate University Counsel are employees of William & Mary, but appointed by the Attorney General as Special Assistant Attorneys General.
