My Why
What powers my practice
A passion for global connection led me to law, where I help clients manage employment challenges and pursue international growth. Having lived abroad, I understand what it feels like to be a “fish out of water” and use that perspective to guide clients through unfamiliar legal and cultural landscapes. My experience spans faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and foreign-owned enterprises, where I’ve seen firsthand how the right legal strategy can open doors to opportunity.
Credentials
- North Carolina Central University School of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2006
- Wake Forest University, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), German, 2003
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- United States District Court, Western District of North Carolina
- Best Lawyers®, Employment Law – Management, 2025
- German
Engagement
- Member, North Carolina District Export Council (NCDEC)
- Member, North Carolina Bar Association
- Member, South Carolina Bar Association
- Member, International Law Committee
- Member, Mecklenburg County Bar
- Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, Gaston Innovation Group (operating as TechWorks of Gaston County)
- Board of Advisors, Go Global NC
- Board of Directors, Gastonia Sister Cities
Insights

Michael Best Attorney Nicole Murphey Appointed to North Carolina District Export Council
Michael Best is pleased to announce that Nicole Murphey has been appointed to serve a three-year-term on the North Carolina District Export Council (NCDEC) by its Executive Board.Read
Mar 13, 2026

Michael Best Attorneys Earn Recognition in The Best Lawyers in America 2026 List
Michael Best is proud to announce the selection of 104 firm attorneys to The Best Lawyers in America 2026 list, with representation across 48 different areas of legal practice nationwide.Read
Aug 21, 2025
Firing Fumbles: Avoiding Legal Landmines with Underperforming Employees
We are regularly fielding questions from employers about terminations/separations with underperforming employees. The typical call/email chain goes something like this: CLIENT: We’d like to fire…Read
Sep 3, 2024

