Nicholas J. Bernate

Though I am a trial attorney, I view litigation as one of many tools I can use to resolve my client’s problems.

Nick is a member of Murray Plumb & Murray’s litigation team where he represents both businesses and individuals. His practice is largely devoted to commercial, real estate, and construction litigation. He also defends clients against various complex personal injury claims, including wrongful death and defamation.

Prior to joining Murray Plumb & Murray, Nick was a shareholder of Clement, Fitzpatrick & Kenworthy, in Santa Rosa, California. He also worked as a senior associate at the law firm of Bledsoe, Diestel, Treppa & Crane LLP, in San Francisco. Nick has tried several jury cases in California Superior Court and the United States Federal Court, in addition to working on matters in the California Court of Appeal and United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

Nick has been recognized as a top-rated civil litigation attorney in both Maine and Northern California, and has been named as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” each year since 2017. He has also been selected by his peers for Best Lawyers New England: Ones to Watch for commercial litigation. Nick lives with his wife and daughter in Southern Maine.

Education

• Santa Clara University School of Law 2012,
  • Cum laude, Order of the Coif, Dean’s List, Witkin Awards for academic excellence
• University of California at Santa Cruz, B.A. 2008, Legal Studies

Bar & Court Admissions

• California
• U.S. District Court for the District of Northern California
• Maine
• U.S. District Court for the District of Maine

Affiliations & Recognition

• Super Lawyers – Rising Star, 2017-2022
• Sonoma Magazine – Lawyers of Distinction 2021
• Best Lawyers – Ones to Watch 2020-2022