Nicholas Cottrell brings to Robert A. Lees & Associates a wealth of experience in litigation, regulatory law, and corporate advisory. His diverse legal background spans both public and private practice, with a strong emphasis on trial advocacy, regulatory code enforcement, and complex civil litigation. Nick is committed to helping clients navigate high-stakes regulatory and legal challenges with precision, diligence, and integrity.
Prior to joining the firm, Nick served as an Assistant City Attorney for the Denver City Attorney’s Office, where he managed a caseload with hundreds of active matters. He prosecuted criminal ordinance violations involving wage theft, domestic violence, and business compliance, while also handling civil enforcement actions for public health, fire code, and Red Flag laws. His work included regular court appearances, constitutional motion practice, and the supervision of legal staff—earning a reputation for both legal skill and fairness.
Nick began his public service career as a Deputy District Attorney in Adams County, where he led jury trials and motion hearings involving DUI, domestic violence, theft, and vehicular offenses. Known for his client-centered and principled approach, Nick ensured that every stakeholder—from victims to defendants—was treated with respect and dignity in the courtroom.
Before transitioning into public service, Nick founded and led The Cottrell Law Firm, a boutique practice advising emerging companies on corporate formation, securities compliance, and contract development. He negotiated commercial leases, drafted complex agreements—including Time and Material and software development contracts—and represented clients in breach of contract litigation and dispute resolution.
Nick also used this opportunity to gain experience on matters at the intersection of federal regulatory law and emerging markets. He advised companies on the implications of the federal hemp regulatory framework, zoning ordinances, and interstate commerce. His work included drafting memoranda, contracts, and opinion letters for businesses operating in highly regulated industries.
Nick’s legal foundation was shaped by clerkships and internships in both Texas and Colorado. As a Licensed Legal Intern for the Parker County Attorney’s Office, he was able negotiate oil and gas leases on behalf of individual property owners, in addition to trial advocacy for the County. He later prosecuted misdemeanor cases as first chair in the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office and conducted case review and legal research for the Galveston County DA.
He earned his Juris Doctor from Texas A&M University School of Law, where he completed more than 750 pro bono hours and served as a member of the Board of Advocates. He competed in national negotiation competitions and was a finalist in the school’s Intramural Alternative Dispute Resolution Competition. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas.
Licensed to practice in Colorado since 2017, Nick continues to focus his practice on administrative & regulatory law, professional licensure defense, and litigation before state regulatory agencies, such as DORA—bringing to the firm a deep understanding of government process and a passion for protecting client rights.