John Foster Fairfax

I grew up on military bases in California, Hawaii, and Virginia, which taught me discipline, adaptability, and the value of steady leadership. My father was a decorated Marine Corps officer who served in Vietnam, and my mother was an English immigrant and former wartime evacuee who rebuilt her life in the United States and worked as a paralegal for forty years. Their experiences shaped my belief that clarity, integrity, and resilience guide every meaningful decision.

I studied History and Foreign Affairs at the University of Virginia before earning my JD from UVA Law. I began my legal career as a Senior Attorney in private practice, where I learned the importance of careful preparation and calm judgement. I later transitioned into public service as an Assistant County Attorney with Fairfax County and then served as City Attorney for the City of Falls Church.

Since 2013, I have served as General Counsel for Fairfax County Public Schools. My work focuses on providing clear legal guidance, managing risk, and supporting one of the largest school systems in the United States. I also serve on the Virginia State Bar Council and hold an AV (preeminent) rating from Martindale-Hubbell.

Outside my professional life, I am a long-distance cyclist who enjoys exploring rural and remote areas on gravel and mountain trails.