Drew A. Richards

Partner | Civil Litigator | Certified Mediator

Helping businesses, individuals, and churches navigate complex legal disputes with clarity and resolve.

Practice Overview

For more than 20 years, Drew Richards has been a trusted advocate for clients in both the courtroom and the conference room. He represents individuals and businesses in a wide range of civil litigation, with a particular focus on business and contract disputes, construction litigation, defamation defense, and land use and nuisance claims. Drew also has extensive experience in real property disputes and personal injury matters.

In addition to his litigation work, Drew serves as outside general counsel to small and mid-sized businesses, providing strategic advice on contract negotiation, employment matters, and other operational issues. His transactional practice includes drafting and negotiating leases, forming new businesses, handling asset acquisitions, and enforcing or defending against covenants not to compete.

Drew is also a certified mediator, assisting parties in resolving disputes efficiently and amicably without the time, expense, and uncertainty of trial. Whether advocating in court, advising a business, or guiding parties toward resolution, Drew is known for his practical, solutions-focused approach and his commitment to protecting his clients’ interests.

Education

University of Wisconsin Law School

J.D. – 2005

University of North Carolina – Greensboro

B.A. – 2000

Bar & Court Admissions

  • North Carolina, 2007

  • U.S. District Court Western District of North Carolina, 2007

  • U.S. District Court Eastern District of North Carolina, 2007

  • Wisconsin, 2005 (Inactive status)

  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Wisconsin, 2005 (Inactive Status)

Representative Cases

  • Euromotorsport SRL v. Rick Ware Racing, LLC (Arbitration) (Hearing date December 2024). Drew obtained an Award of almost $800,000 dollars in breach of contract action.

  • Home Buyers Warranty Corp, et al. v. Builder (JAMS Arbitration) (Hearing date November 2022). Claimant sought damages against client builder for over $850,000. Drew obtained an Award of zero dollars.

  • Violette, et al. v. The Town of Cornelius, et al., No. COA21-648 (N.C. Ct. App. June 7, 2022)

  • Cahn, et al. v. Shavender’s Bluff Community Association, Inc., et al., No. COA19-1046, 2020 WL 4185792 (N.C. Ct. App. July 21, 2020)

  • Fischer v. Fagan, 821 S.E.2d 898 (N.C. Ct. App. 2018)

  • GECMC 2006-C1 Carrington Oaks, LLC v. Weiss, 801 S.E.2d 394 (N.C. Ct. App. 2017)

  • Moon Wright & Houston, PLLC v. Cole, 798 S.E.2d 551 (N.C. Ct. App. 2017)

  • Fandrick v. Waukesha Mem'l Hosp., 2009 WI App 99, 312 Wis. 2d 811, 754 N.W.2d 254

Recognition & Community Involvement

  • Certified Mediator

Seminars & Publications

  • Author, “Trial Tactics For Automobile Cases,” presented to Insurance Claims Handling Association.

  • Author, “Pre-suit and Pre-trial Claims Handling Tips,” presented to Insurance Claims Handling Association.

  • Editor, “The North Carolina Claims Manager’s Guide” 2007 Supplement.

Beyond the Office

Outside the office, Drew is deeply rooted in his Davidson community. He and his wife are active members of Storyhill Church and participate in F3 Nation. Drew’s happiest moments often involve the outdoors — whether casting a fly in a Smoky Mountain stream, boating with his family, or heading out on a hunting trip. He’s also an avid reader who values both adventure and reflection.