About Bernard John-Eduard van
Bernard "Bert" John-Eduard van Gils is a attorney based in Warrenton, Virginia, specializing in business law, estate planning, intellectual property, probate, education law, international law, and trademarks. He is the founder of The Van Gils Law Firm, PLLC, which offers comprehensive legal services to clients throughout Northern Virginia and the Virginia Piedmont Region. Bert earned his Juris Doctor in 1986 from the Washington College of Law at American University in Washington, D.C. He served as an Associate Editor of the inaugural edition of The American University Journal of International Law and Policy. Prior to law school, he obtained Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Sociology from Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia.
Admitted to the Virginia State Bar in April 1987, Bert has been practicing law for over three decades. His business law practice encompasses general counsel services, business formation and incorporation, trademark and intellectual property matters, nonprofit law, copyright, franchise agreements, buy-sell agreements, and international business transactions. He has facilitated, negotiated, and drafted transactions for companies operating across the United States and internationally, including in Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. In estate planning, Bert provides services such as drafting wills and trusts, establishing guardianships, and guiding clients through probate administration. His intellectual property practice focuses on protecting trade secrets, proprietary information, trademarks, and copyrights, which are vital to the success of businesses.
Additionally, he offers guidance in education law, assisting clients with various legal issues related to educational institutions. Beyond his legal practice, Bert is deeply involved in his local community. He has served as the President of the Board of Directors of the Greater Warrenton Chamber of Commerce and has been active with the Fauquier County Chamber of Commerce, the Fauquier County Community Action Committee, the Partnership for Warrenton, the Ballet Academy of Warrenton. The Fauquier Regional Technology Association. His commitment to community service reflects his dedication to supporting and enhancing the local area.
Bert's experience and dedication to his clients and community make him a trusted legal professional in the Warrenton area. His firm continues to provide many legal services, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive and effective representation.
