Cranfill Sumner LLP today announced that attorneys Vince Eisinger and Chad Rhoades have been selected as winners of the Southeastern Legal Awards’ “On the Rise in North Carolina” category. In addition, the firm has been named a finalist for “Best Legal Innovation” for its forward‑thinking CEO leadership structure. Winners will be honored at the awards ceremony on May 7 at The Whitley in Atlanta.
The “On the Rise” recognition honors the region’s most promising attorneys under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional professional achievement, leadership, innovation, and community impact. Honorees are evaluated on their ability to develop unique practice niches, lead with distinction, build strong books of business, and meaningfully contribute to pro bono, charitable, and professional organizations.
“Chad and Vince exemplify the strength and promise of Cranfill Sumner’s next generation of leaders,” said Ryan Bolick, Chair of Cranfill Sumner’s Executive Committee. “Their commitment to excellence, client service, and forward‑thinking innovation reflects the high standards that define our firm.”
Cranfill Sumner was additionally recognized as a finalist for “Best Legal Innovation.” This category honors firms and legal departments in the Southeast that push the legal industry forward through technology, communications, business operations, cultural initiatives, and other transformative strategies. The firm’s nomination highlights its new CEO leadership structure, which strengthens long‑term strategy, enhances operational efficiency, and supports a culture of collaborative leadership.
“We are honored to be recognized for our commitment to innovation,” said Ryan. “Our CEO structure reinforces our dedication to evolving in ways that best serve our clients, our people, and the legal community.”
Vince is based in the firm’s Raleigh office and serves as Co‑Chair of the Business Disputes & Litigation Practice Group. He represents clients in complex commercial matters, including M&A disputes, fiduciary duty claims, and derivative actions. He also works within the Employment Law Practice Group, defending employers in discrimination, wage‑and‑hour, and related employment litigation. Licensed in both North Carolina and New York, he advises clients across the state on significant business and employment disputes.
Chad is a litigator in the firm’s Raleigh office and Chair of the Administrative, Regulatory & Government Law Practice Group. He previously served as an Assistant United States Attorney, Chief Counsel to U.S. Senator Thom Tillis, and in the North Carolina General Assembly. He also practices in the White Collar, Government Investigations & Special Matters Practice Group and is a member of Mincey Bell. He provides counsel on administrative, regulatory, and government‑related matters informed by extensive public‑sector experience.
