Hunter Bruton

Hunter Bruton handles complex commercial and public litigation issues from pre-litigation counseling through Supreme Court appeals. After serving as a law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, Hunter began his career as an attorney at a multinational law firm contributing to its Issues & Appeals practice, litigating complex cases and filing briefs in courts across the country. Since returning home to North Carolina, Hunter has continued his nationwide practice while carving out a role at the local level litigating in the North Carolina Business Court, North Carolina Superior Court, the Court of Appeals and the North Carolina Supreme Court.

His litigation practice also includes class actions, administrative law matters, employment disputes and business-to-business disputes. Hunter has successfully managed multi-million dollar high-stakes cases, securing dismissals in state and federal courts or obtaining favorable settlements. He shapes appellate strategy in cases that originate with the firm, and in cases that call on the firm later for appeal, in search of repair. He has argued before multiple U.S. Courts of Appeals, including a case of first impression in the Federal Circuit narrowing the government’s exemption from the Takings Clause. His appellate work has shaped precedent in areas like constitutional law, federal preemption, sovereign immunity and trade secret misappropriation. Hunter has a proven track record of minimizing risk while maintaining his clients’ business objectives, exemplified by key victories such as dismissals of consumer class action complaints.

Hunter is a problem solver first and litigator second, always striving to minimize legal exposure and resolve business disputes before they become public. His approach combines deep legal knowledge with a commitment to his clients’ long-term goals and reputational concerns. Hunter often serves as outside counsel for corporations mitigating legal risk, handling investigations, advising on compliance and formulating contracting best practices. Hunter advises a range of clients—from Fortune 500 companies to emerging growth companies—across industries including banking, healthcare, technology, data privacy, finance and administrative law.