About

Provided by Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

More than half the firm's lawyers are trial lawyers.  We thrive on novel issues and precedent-setting cases.

​Professional Firms

Our experience representing law and accounting firms is unmatched in our region.  For over 35 years, we have represented both regional and national accounting firms in litigation, governmental investigations, regulatory matters, and bankruptcy proceedings.  Our representations have involved audits, tax matters, and other accounting advisory services.  We have experience with both class action claims and those brought by an individual plaintiff.

​White-collar Criminal Defense

Our white-collar criminal and government investigations team is renowned for tenacious litigation of high-stakes cases.  Our team draws on deep, broad experience on both sides of complex federal prosecutions.  The team of lawyers includes former Assistant U.S. Attorneys.

​North Carolina Business Court

Brooks Pierce attorneys have appeared as counsel of record in more North Carolina Business Court decisions than any other law firm.  We regularly tackle complex, high-stakes business litigation for our clients.  Furthermore, we stay involved with the inner workings of the court; three of our attorneys serve on the Rules Committee for the Business Court.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Litigation: General Commercial - North Carolina

1
Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Brooks, Pierce, McLendon Humphrey & Leonard is widely acclaimed and sought after for its reputation in the commercial litigation space. The firm has particular strength in handling an array of complex matters for accountancy firms, while also handling high-stakes bankruptcy litigation. The team also offers skilled representation in appellate proceedings.

Work Highlights

  • Brooks Pierce represented the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina in two class actions seeking the return of tuition fees for the Spring 2020 and Fall 2020 semesters after the COVID-19 pandemic led to classes taking place online rather than in person.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

Charles E Coble
1
Charles E Coble
1
Band 1
Charles Coble has considerable experience in the space. He acts on behalf of clients in litigation and appeals related to franchise and intellectual property disputes.

Charles is a very good attorney, especially in appeals and other matters that are heavy on legal analysis.

He's an exceptional writer, and if we have a complex issue he breaks it down into simple terms and simplifies the matter. He's well respected and easy to work with.

Jim W Phillips
1
Jim W Phillips
1
Band 1
Jim Phillips is highly regarded for his broad litigation practice. He deftly handles business and intellectual property disputes as well as questions arising under constitutional law.

He's the best in the field, hands down.

He's thoughtful, wise and highly experienced.

Jim Phillips is an excellent lawyer.

Jim is an incredible litigator.

Reid L Phillips
2
Reid L Phillips
2
Band 2
Reid Phillips is an accomplished attorney in the business and corporate litigation sphere, offering notable strength in class action disputes. He also has experience in antitrust, banking and securities-related matters.

Reid Phillips is very well respected.

Gary S Parsons
3
Gary S Parsons
3
Band 3
Gary Parsons is an experienced litigator who represents clients in a range of industries including healthcare, insurance, automotive and energy. He handles product liability and malpractice disputes as well as business litigation before trial and appellate courts.

He has a lot of experience and good judgment.

Gary is an excellent trial lawyer.

Jennifer K Van Zant
4
Jennifer K Van Zant
4
Band 4

Jennifer Van Zant is recognized for her breadth of experience handling commercial disputes and class actions. She represents higher education clients and corporates from a variety of industries.

She is a very well-regarded business litigator who has an excellent reputation.

She's a major player in commercial litigation in North Carolina.

Ranked Lawyers at
Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

North Carolina

Litigation: Appellate

Charles E Coble
1
Charles E Coble
1
Band 1
Litigation: General Commercial

Jim W Phillips
1
Jim W Phillips
1
Band 1
Reid L Phillips
2
Reid L Phillips
2
Band 2
Gary S Parsons
3
Gary S Parsons
3
Band 3
Jennifer K Van Zant
4
Jennifer K Van Zant
4
Band 4

Members

Provided by Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

Eric David

Jennifer Van Zant

Jimmy Adams

Robert King

Industries

Provided by Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

Commercial & Professional Services

Construction/Development

Government

Health Care

Manufacturing

Technology

Utilities