Christopher is the chair of Nelson Mullins' FDA Regulatory Compliance & Litigation practice group. He assists clients in tackling their most sophisticated and high-stakes regulatory issues across a range of product categories, including medical devices, human and animal drugs, in vitro diagnostics (IVDs), conventional foods, dietary supplements, cosmetics, radiation-emitting electronic products, and clinical laboratories.

Why did you select your practice area?

As an FDA regulatory attorney, I have the ability -- through my clients -- to help shape the global public health. Whether assisting a client in preparing an application for an innovative therapeutic drug or drafting public comments regarding a new FDA medical device guidance, I get to play an active part in improving health outcomes.

What are some of the traits that you admire the most amongst your peers?

I most admire empathy and grit. As attorneys, I think it is vital that we attempt to understanding the perspective or position of others -- including firm colleagues, clients, regulators, and opposing counsel. Likewise, I admire a peer's ability to display courage and overcome hardships or obstacles in their personal and professional spheres.

At this point in your career, what would you say has been your biggest accomplishment?

I am most proud of the work I accomplished with clients during the COVID-19 and Mpox public health emergencies. In a relatively short period of time, we worked to prepare FDA submissions and receive Emergency Use Authorization for diagnostic tests. These tests played a vital public health role during both public health emergencies.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is my husband. He brings a sense of humility to all he does -- at home as well as at work.

What inspired you to become an attorney or policy advisor?

I studied to become a minister before law school. During divinity school, I assisted three different U.S. Senators with constituent casework. I thoroughly enjoyed navigating complex federal and state agencies in order to help address constituents' healthcare, military, tax, and LGBT-related issues. I realized that I could marry my interests in advocacy and serving others as an attorney.