Prime Highlights
- Courtney L. Nichols has been recognized as one of the 2026 Notable Women in Law by Crain’s Detroit Business for her leadership and professional achievements.
- Nichols is honored for her role in setting legal precedents, securing major client victories, mentoring women lawyers, and contributing to community and philanthropic efforts.
Key Facts
- Nichols joined Plunkett Cooney in 2011, leads its Litigation Department, and serves as outside employment counsel for several Michigan-based companies.
- She advises on compliance with laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and Family and Medical Leave Act, while also guiding workplace policies and employment contracts.
Background
Courtney L. Nichols, partner and Litigation Department Leader at Plunkett Cooney, has been named one of the 2026 Notable Women in Law by Crain’s Detroit Business. The recognition places her among 52 female attorneys honored this year for their professional achievements and leadership in the legal field.
Crain’s selected the 2026 class for their role in setting legal precedents, securing major victories for clients and mentoring the next generation of women lawyers. The publication also cited their community involvement and philanthropic efforts. The honorees are featured in the February 23 print and online editions.
Nichols joined Plunkett Cooney in 2011 and has built a strong practice in employment law. She serves as outside employment counsel to several Michigan-based companies and represents employers in workplace litigation matters through their insurance providers. Her litigation work includes defending claims related to discrimination, retaliation and civil rights.
Over the years, Nichols has held several leadership roles at the firm. She previously co-led the Labor & Employment Law Practice Group and now heads the firm’s Litigation Department. She also serves on the Strategic Planning, Retirement, and Salary and Bonus committees, and acts as general counsel for employment law matters within the firm.
Based in the firm’s Bloomfield Hills office, Nichols advises employers on complex labor and employment issues before disputes reach court. She provides guidance on compliance with laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Fair Labor Standards Act. She also assists clients in drafting and enforcing workplace policies and contracts.
Nichols has earned several industry honors. She was recently recognized in Best Lawyers in America® for Employment Law – Management and Labor and Employment Litigation. She has also been named a Rising Star by Michigan Super Lawyers and received multiple recognitions from Michigan Lawyers Weekly and DBusiness Magazine.
Established in 1913, Plunkett Cooney provides business law and litigation services across Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, and Indiana.
