The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Collins and Hepler, PLC is proud to announce that Michele M. Cook has joined the firm as its newest attorney. Ms. Cook was officially sworn into practice in Virginia’s 25th Judicial Circuit today, following her successful completion of the Virginia State Bar Examination on October 10, 2025.
A lifelong learner and dedicated community member, Ms. Cook brings a unique and well-rounded background to her legal practice. Before entering the field of law, she worked with CSX Transportation and holds a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Cook is also the author of a children’s book, showcasing her creativity and diverse interests.
Ms. Cook earned her undergraduate degree from Liberty University, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and received her Juris Doctorate from The University of Mississippi School of Law, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.
An Alleghany County resident, Ms. Cook is deeply invested in the community she now serves. She is a member of the Steering Committee for the Covington Farmer’s Market and actively participates in the New River Valley Sheep and Goat Association.
“We are thrilled to welcome Michele to the firm,” said Michael Collins, Partner at Collins and Hepler, PLC. “Her breadth of experience, academic excellence, and strong commitment to her community bring invaluable perspective to our team and to the clients we serve.”
Partner Jeanne Hepler added “Michele’s diverse background—from transportation to agriculture to publishing—gives her a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. We’re excited to see how her perspective will strengthen our client relationships and enrich our practice.”
Collins and Hepler, PLC is a full-service law firm with offices in Covington and Lexington, VA making it easy for the firm to serve clients throughout Western Virginia.
The firm is committed to providing high-quality, client-focused legal services across a wide range of practice areas including property and real estate matters, elder care law, wills and estates and criminal and traffic matters. The addition of Ms. Cook reflects that ongoing mission and the firm’s dedication to both professional excellence and community engagement.
