Ernest P. "Rusty" Gates, Jr. possesses more than 29 years of extensive experience as a trial and business attorney. As a member of CowanGates' litigation team, he practices criminal, personal injury and family law. His practice also includes traffic law relating to traffic violations, automobile accidents and injuries. His business law practice focuses on estate planning and commercial and residential real estate.

In 2000, Virginia Lawyers Weekly recognized his trial work by naming one of his cases among the "Most Important Decisions" when he served as the lead attorney for Sensabaugh v. Gateway.

Rusty received his bachelor of arts degree from Hampden-Sydney College in 1976 and earned his law degree from the T. C. Williams School of Law of the University of Richmond in 1981.

A Chesterfield native, Rusty is an active member of the Virginia State Bar, Chesterfield County Bar Association, Powhatan Bar Association and Virginia Trial Lawyers Association.