John was named “Most Inspiring Graduate,” of the Regent University School of Law for his Class. An Honors student, John earned the Ronald L. Fick Book Award for highest academic achievement in:His outstanding performance in Real Estate Transactions, Property, Contract, and Criminal Law propelled him to finish in the top fifth of the class.Beyond the books, John established himself as an effective justice-oriented advocate. He represented Virginia on 86 cases, including felony prosecutions, under Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. John interned for the Supreme Court of Virginia and assisted the Legal Advisor to the Supreme Allied Commander for Transportation at the Norfolk NATO headquarters.John’s 12 years of active duty military service include multiple deployments and work in the Defense Attaché Office at U.S. Embassy, Paris. During two assignments as a Legal Officer, LCDR Kaptan prepared dozens of wills and powers of attorney for deploying Sailors. He developed a nuanced understanding of the adversarial process as a Court Martialing Officer, representing commands in UCMJ hearings and counseling Sailors trapped by predatory leasing and lending practices.International experience is balanced by John’s deeply rooted local investment. He is a licensed Virginia real estate professional who has maintained a home on the southside since 2004. John’s commitment to our region’s well-being shows in his serving with Portsmouth-based EDMARC Hospice for Children and engagement with the post-incarceration reintegration efforts of Onesimus House of Chesapeake.John’s respected counsel and keen legal advocacy will be asset in your legal matters with a primary focus in:Civil LitigationReal Estate sales, exchanges, contracts, leasesLandlord / Tenant DisputesReckless Driving / Traffic Ticket DefenseWills, Trusts, Estate PlanningBusiness FormationJohn lives in Chesapeake with his wife Tracy and his three wonderfully energetic children.