Neutral Spotlight – Hon. Glen A. Huff (Ret.)
With over 80 distinguished Neutrals—including retired judges and seasoned attorneys—serving Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland, The McCammon Group is excited to continue our “Neutral Spotlight” series. This ongoing feature highlights the exceptional expertise, diverse experiences, and unique backgrounds of our Neutrals. Through these spotlights, we offer a closer look at the professionals who are committed to delivering fair, effective, and innovative dispute resolution services. Join us as we showcase the individuals who contribute to The McCammon Group’s reputation as a trusted leader in alternative dispute resolution.
- What’s a fun fact others may not know about you? In college, I studied violin and played at the first stand of the first violin section of the University orchestra. Also, during that time, I learned to fly, receiving my pilot’s license in 1972.
- Do you have a lucky charm? No, I don’t have a lucky charm. That is probably because I tend to think that circumstances that might be characterized as good luck or bad luck are more likely to be (a) circumstances of our own making, or (b) circumstances divinely set as growth opportunities.
- What’s a hidden talent or hobby that most people might not know about you? I enjoy woodworking and have built a stand-up desk and various items of furniture.
- What was your first job? Even before my teenage years, I shoveled snow (grew up in Maine), delivered newspapers, and was hired out to help with haying at a few local farms. That work ethic has remained throughout my years – for example, I worked a night shift at a foundry during part of my law school years.
- What inspired you to pursue a career in law? My inspiration to pursue a career in law has changed over the years. Initially, I wanted to be a lawyer as a hedge against a life of poverty that I had seen while growing up in central Maine. Over time, through changing life circumstances, I came to appreciate the opportunities presented in the practice of law to provide meaningful careers for staff and lawyers, where people were respected and where good could be accomplished for the communities we served.
- What types of cases do you find most rewarding or challenging? I have appreciated being able to handle a variety of cases over my career. Frequently, the financial aspect is “the tip of the iceberg.” I find great personal satisfaction whenever I can help the parties deal with the other issues (e.g., family dynamics, personal feelings, and emotional healing).
- How do you handle situations where both parties seem unwilling to compromise? Nearly every mediation includes overcoming a roadblock or two. The process then needs to change direction. That sometimes is accomplished by changing discussions to focus on the underlying emotions rather than raw dollars. Sometimes shifting to hypotheticals (e.g., brackets, allows a path forward without the resistance of offering actual dollars). Other nonfinancial factors sometimes will return the movement toward settlement.
- What advice would you give to lawyers about preparing for mediations? Mediation requires everyone to adjust their perspective toward listening and earnestly seeking resolution. The mindset for mediation is markedly different from that required for trial. I typically explain that to the parties at the outset of mediation. Parties should not expect bombastic assertions from counsel, nor look for ways to beat the other side. The objective is finding a resolution at an expense that will allow each side to avoid the vagaries of litigation.
- What qualities do you think are essential for someone in your role to be an effective neutral party? As a neutral, I am no longer the decision maker, nor am I the person driving a certain result. My role is to facilitate decision making by the litigants. Sometimes, frankly, that is frustrating because the resolution seems obvious. But ADR works best when the litigants work through the process, sensing that they have been able to exercise some level of control.
- What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, either personally or professionally? Be open to change. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that as humans we tend to plan our future, but it is God who determines our steps.
The Honorable Glen A. Huff retired after more than thirteen years of distinguished judicial service on the Virginia Court of Appeals including four years as Chief Judge. Prior to his judicial service, he enjoyed a successful private practice specializing in civil litigation. A legal, governmental, and community leader, Judge Huff is the Founding Member and Past President of the James Kent American Inn of Court and served as the President for the Virginia Beach Bar Association, Virginia Beach Forum, and the local chapter of the Federal Bar Association. He also served on boards for the Norfolk-Portsmouth Bar Association, Virginia Symphony, and Central Business District Association. Judge Huff now brings this exemplary record of excellence and experience to The McCammon Group to serve the mediation, arbitration, judge pro tempore, and special master needs of lawyers and litigants throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.