Maxie Lawton

Biography

Maxie Lawton is the co-founder of The Phoenix Trial Firm, where he is known across Hampton Roads as a decorated Army Ranger turned trial attorney. Maxie brings unmatched grit, precision, and loyalty to every case, fighting for those who feel overlooked, outmuscled, or voiceless.

Maxie’s story is one of purpose forged through pain. Before his legal journey, Maxie served in the U.S. Army Special Operations community, surviving a traumatic brain injury from an IED and having to relearn how to walk, talk, read, and write. He rebuilt his life step-by-step and now fights for clients to do the same.

At The Phoenix Trial Firm, Maxie channels every ounce of that experience into personal injury, criminal defense, and civil litigation work, guiding clients through some of life’s most intense legal battles. As the phoenix transforms pain into power, Maxie helps his clients rise, turning setbacks into comebacks and restoring hope where others saw only defeat.

Outside of the courtroom, Maxie is a community builder, speaker, and mentor. Whether running legal education events, hosting back-to-school drives, or spotlighting underserved voices, he remains firmly rooted in the Hampton Roads community that raised him.

Education

• B.S., Hampton University
• M.S., Hampton University
• M.S., SUNY Maritime
• J.D., The George Washington University Law School