Ryan Willis

Background

About Ryan Willis

Ryan is a Shareholder in Maynard Nexsen’s Government Investigations & White Collar Defense practice group. Ryan is an outstanding trial lawyer with two decades of experience who has tried more than 35 cases to verdict in both state and federal court. In addition to numerous state court victories, Ryan won consecutive not guilty verdicts in federal jury trials in 2020. Ryan has also proudly argued two federal cases before the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. Ryan has been lead counsel in countless government investigations and white collar criminal matters involving healthcare, environmental violations, antitrust, insurance fraud, political corruption, bank fraud, as well as civil and criminal matters related to the SEC. He has represented business entities as outside General Counsel, advising his corporate clients regarding compliance matters and stepping in when allegations of wrongdoing have arisen. He has assisted both individual and corporate clients when they have received time sensitive Grand Jury Subpoenas. He has successfully negotiated Non-Prosecution Agreements for clients who have received Target Letters from the Department of Justice. Ryan works with other practice groups regularly, understanding that Maynard Nexsen’s fullservice team can manage a wide array of legal challenges. Even more impressive than Ryan’s not guilty trial verdicts are the success stories that don’t make headlines. Often his best work is done privately by quietly convincing law enforcement and prosecutors to decline charges or dismiss cases wrongly indicted. Ryan understands the reputational harm a government investigation can have on businesses and individuals, and he works diligently to minimize any negative impact. Prior to joining Maynard Nexsen, Ryan was a Founder of Dysart Willis, a full-service criminal defense firm. Ryan, a Raleigh native, was an Assistant District Attorney in Wake County, North Carolina, following law school. He is a member and the past Chair of the Board of Trustees of Raleigh’s First Baptist Church.