Arlington County Board Selects Ryan Samuel as County Attorney

At its December 2, 2025, Special Meeting, the Arlington County Board appointed Ryan C. Samuel as County Attorney for the Arlington County Government. In this role, Mr. Samuel will serve as chief legal counsel to the County Board, reporting directly to the Board and leading an office of 14 attorneys, 3 paraprofessional staff, and the County's FOIA Officer. 

The County Attorney’s Office provides legal advice and guidance to the County Board, County Manager, County departments, agencies, boards and commissions, and the Retirement Board. The office also represents the County in litigation in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies. 

“Our comprehensive search for a new County Attorney drew extraordinary legal talent,” said County Board Chair Takis Karantonis.  “Ryan Samuel stood out for his creative problem solving, litigation experience, statewide leadership, and deep commitment to Arlington. He brings the expertise, dedication to public service, and forward thinking needed to guide the County Attorney’s Office in the years ahead.” 

Mr. Samuel joined the Arlington County Attorney’s Office in 2018 and has served as Deputy County Attorney since January 2022. During his tenure, he has advised County leadership on a broad range of legal matters and represented the County in significant litigation before state and federal courts. He also serves as a Board Member of the Local Government Attorneys of Virginia. 

Mr. Samuel earned his J.D. from Wake Forest University School of Law and holds an undergraduate degree from Hampden-Sydney College, where he received a B.A. in History and Political Science. 

He assumes the role previously held by MinhChau Corr, who left the County in summer 2025 to serve as General Counsel to the Virginia Railway Express.