J. Nicholas Ellis is a highly accomplished litigation attorney and partner at Poyner Spruill LLP, specializing in civil litigation with over 36 years of experience representing businesses, governmental agencies, and individuals in North Carolina’s state and federal courts. His practice is distinguished by a strong record of successful jury trials and appellate victories, particularly in complex commercial, real estate, and governmental defense matters.
Nick Ellis adopts a strategic, results-driven approach, leveraging his deep expertise in both prosecuting and defending high-stakes cases. He is frequently engaged by clients facing contract disputes, real estate litigation, professional malpractice claims, and constitutional challenges. His extensive trial experience and recognition as a “State Litigation Star” and repeated inclusion in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers underscore his reputation for effective advocacy.
Services Offered
- Civil Litigation
- Business Litigation
- Contract Disputes
- Real Estate Litigation
- Eminent Domain & Condemnation
- Tort & Insurance Defense
- Government Law & Municipal Litigation
- Administrative Employment Law
- Professional Malpractice Defense
- Use of Force Claims & Law Enforcement Defense
- Wrongful Death Claims
- Construction Litigation
- Creditors’ Rights & Bankruptcy
- White Collar Criminal Defense
- Employment & Severance Agreements
Nick Ellis is licensed in North Carolina and the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, serving clients primarily throughout the state with offices in Rocky Mount and Raleigh. He is an active member of several professional associations, including the American Board of Trial Advocates and the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys, where he has held leadership roles.
