Prince William County press release
A sign on the wall of the Prince William County Law Library, recently relocated from the basement to the third floor of the Prince William County Judicial Center, honors former Commonwealth’s Attorney Paul B. Ebert.
The sign states that the library, open to the public, continues the “legacy of service by ensuring access to justice for all.”
“Many years ago, the law library was relegated to the deepest corner of the basement, and that really undermined its main mission,” said current Commonwealth’s Attorney Jacqueline Smith. “The mission of the law library is to provide access to justice for all citizens regardless of their socio-economic status.”
Ebert, the state’s longest-serving commonwealth’s attorney, served in the office representing Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park from 1967 to 2019. He rose to national prominence in prosecuting Lorena Bobbitt and the Beltway Snipers.
Bill Stevens, Ebert’s friend and long-time colleague, spoke at the law library dedication and, in a roast-like style, told the story of a prank Ebert played on him when he was fresh out of law school. According to Stevens, Ebert sent him looking for the law library within a month after they first met.
“He gave me some directions, and they were confusing at best, so I left and wandered around the courthouse. There was only a circuit court on the second floor. There was only a county court on the right. There were some clerk’s offices and I couldn’t find the law library. So, I go over into the annex and I’m inquiring about the law library. Leda Thomas was the clerk of the circuit court and she sort of smiled and said, ‘What are you talking about?’ and I said, ‘Well, Ebert told me the law library was around here,’ and she said, ‘There’s no law library.’ “I never did get him back for that.”
Stevens went on to recognize Ebert’s service. “There’s dedication in a job like this. If you wonder what it’s like to run for reelection, Paul did it 13 times. These were for four-year terms and he became the longest-serving commonwealth’s attorney in the commonwealth and maybe, arguably, in the country. I think for his service, to the commonwealth, to this county, to the citizens and to all the cases, I think it’s only fitting and proper that this law library be dedicated to him.”
Ebert’s daughter, Kathy Gravett, was quite happy at the dedication of the law library, which is used by more than 7,000 people annually. “I think it’s fantastic and very special and well-deserved. We couldn’t be more pleased and honored.”
Ebert thanked everyone for coming and said he was honored at the dedication.
Recent Stories
A Prince William County Supervisor is calling for a review of how the Cities of Manassas and Manassas Park contribute to the operation of the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, citing concerns about equity as the office expands its public service offerings and technology footprint.
You’ve heard it before: Location, Location, Location. But according to seasoned Realtor Mark Worrilow, that old real estate rule just doesn’t cover it anymore.
The Fredericksburg Area Council of Garden Clubs and the City of Fredericksburg celebrated the 37th Annual Arbor Day on Thursday, April 10, 2025, with a special tribute to local environmental champions Anne and Carl Little, along with the organization Tree Fredericksburg.
The Manassas City School Board meeting on Tuesday, April 8, opened with a series of uplifting spotlights showcasing the accomplishments of students and staff across the school division. From regional…
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
Get More from your Fitness with IM=X® Pilates & Fitness King Farm!
Help us Celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary by joining our OPEN HOUSE
When: April 27th 11:45AM
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
