Jacksonville, NC

Devlin Horton

Devlin Horton is a highly accomplished trial lawyer and the lead litigator at Horton & Mendez Injury Lawyers, where he focuses on representing individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. Known for his relentless drive, exceptional legal acumen, and aggressive courtroom strategies, Devlin has built a reputation as one of North Carolina’s most accomplished trial lawyers-and one of the nation’s rising stars in personal injury law. At just 35 years old, Devlin achieved a remarkable milestone when his client was awarded a $38.2 million verdict, the second-largest personal injury verdict in North Carolina history at the time. This was also the largest verdict in Pitt County history. This extraordinary win is a testament to his skill and commitment to securing life-changing outcomes for his clients. Devlin’s passion for justice and his tenacity in the courtroom have earned him a coveted place among the nation’s top trial lawyers. Before founding Horton & Mendez, Devlin spent six years representing major insurance companies and defending corporations against personal injury claims. This unique background gives him unparalleled insight into how insurers think, negotiate, and prepare for trial. This knowledge has proven invaluable when advocating for clients against well-funded corporate defendants. Devlin’s experience on the defense side gives him a significant edge in understanding the tactics employed by insurance companies and their attorneys, which he uses to counter their strategies with precision and effectiveness. Devlin’s success is not only reflected in his verdicts but also in the recognition he has received from his peers. He was inducted as the youngest North Carolinian to both the National Trial Lawyers Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum-exclusive organizations that recognize trial lawyers who have secured million- and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements. Devlin was also named to The National Trial Lawyers: 40 Under 40, which highlights the country’s top personal injury attorneys under the age of 40. Devlin’s commitment to excellence in trial law has earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Super Lawyer for five consecutive years-a distinction awarded to just 2.5% of attorneys in North Carolina. He is also a regular speaker and instructor for the North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ), where he shares his expertise on trial tactics and strategies with fellow attorneys. Clients who work with Devlin benefit from his unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of justice. Whether in the courtroom or negotiating a settlement, Devlin’s approach is always client-focused, ensuring that his clients receive the full value of their claims. He leaves no stone unturned and puts everything he has into each case, knowing the life-changing impact a successful outcome can have for his clients and their families. When he’s not in the courtroom, Devlin enjoys spending time with his wife, Liz, and their red golden retriever, Sam. He’s an avid outdoorsman who loves duck hunting, fishing, and surfing and is an enthusiastic supporter of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. With a track record of securing landmark verdicts and settlements, Devlin Horton is a sought-after trial lawyer who has earned the respect of both his clients and his peers. If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, Devlin will fight tirelessly to ensure your case is handled with the urgency, skill, and attention it deserves.

Nicholas Mendez

Nick is a personal injury lawyer in Wilmington, NC. Nick believes in always keeping his clients one step ahead of the insurance company. Nick is passionate about representing the injured, and he prides himself on being a compassionate, responsive, and zealous advocate. In every personal injury case, Nick’s goal is maximizing his client’s recovery. Nick used to work for a large multi-state law firm defending major insurance companies and large corporations in personal injury lawsuits. He knows how the system works. This insider knowledge helps him anticipate how the other side will approach a case, and effectively counsel his clients through complex and difficult situations. During law school, Nick spent part of a summer working for the current Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. He’s seen the inner workings of the highest level of the NC courts. This perspective helps him see the big picture.

Donald Marcari

As Senior Managing Partner at Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban, he has spent his career standing up for the seriously injured across North Carolina and Virginia, focusing on plaintiff personal injury and civil litigation. He also advocates for veterans in benefits claims and continues to protect service members in courts-martial and administrative proceedings, bringing unwavering dedication to every client he serves.

Brian M. Ricci

Serving Raleigh, Charlotte, Rocky Mount, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas in North Carolina, Brian M. Ricci is a dedicated and aggressive Greenville personal injury attorney. His practice is focused on Workers’ compensation, Car accidents, and Trucking Accidents. He is recognized as a passionate advocate for injured workers and was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Workers Injury Law & Advocacy Group in 2002. Brian is also the founder of EASTERN NC CARES and TRIANGLE NC CARES, initiatives to recognize non-profit organizations. He is driven to deliver his best counsel, guidance, and legal representation to his clients, providing complete access and keeping them informed. He stands up for the rights of the injured against insurance companies, employers, and corporations.

Robert Dodge

Licensed as an attorney in North Carolina since 1988, Robert Dodge is an experienced litigator, legal advocate, and respected member of the legal community. He has dedicated his professional life to helping people with legal claims for personal injuries, wrongful death, catastrophic loss, TBI, and spinal cord injuries. Robert Dodge retired from practice in 2021.

David Russotto

A dedicated partner guiding clients through personal injury claims with skill and compassion, he leverages decades of trial experience to fight for fair compensation and protect the rights of those harmed by negligence.

John T Briggs

Mr. Briggs is our firm's co-owner and managing attorney, with over 30 years' experience, he practices in the area of Personal Injury Law.