Chad Rhoades is a seasoned trial attorney and strategic advisor with a rare combination of federal prosecutorial experience and high-level Congressional and Administration insight. A former Assistant United States Attorney and U.S. Senate Chief Counsel, Chad’s practice is built for clients facing high-stakes white-collar investigations, complex regulatory enforcement actions, and critical litigation where legal strategy and political reality intersect.

Because Chad has operated at the highest levels across multiple branches of federal and state government, he brings an insider’s understanding to navigating high-stake challenges outside the courtroom and securing victories within it.

Federal Enforcement & Trial Experience As a federal prosecutor for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Chad led complex investigations into sophisticated criminal organizations, handling hundreds of cases involving fraud, money laundering, and firearms and drug trafficking. A veteran of the courtroom, he chaired nine federal jury trials to verdict and successfully argued before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. This deep enforcement background allows Chad to anticipate government strategies and build unshakeable defenses for clients facing federal scrutiny.

Congressional Oversight & Regulatory Acumen Prior to his service as a federal prosecutor, Chad served as Chief Counsel to U.S. Senator Thom Tillis. In Washington, he advised on critical national issues, including data privacy, antitrust, congressional oversight investigations, whistleblower protections, and campaign finance. He successfully shepherded bipartisan legislation through Congress and guided the office through high-profile executive and judicial confirmations, including the Supreme Court. This experience gives Chad unparalleled insight into managing complex, multi-jurisdictional regulatory challenges and high-profile congressional inquiries.

State-Level Insight & Education Chad’s deep understanding of regulatory and legislative processes began at the state level, where he advised on election and campaign law within the North Carolina General Assembly. His proven track record of coalition and consensus-building allows him to deliver sophisticated, discreet solutions for clients navigating the distinct legal and political landscape of North Carolina and abroad.

Chad received his undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University and his law degree from Campbell University.