Education

  • J.D., Vanderbilt University Law School
  • B.S., Washington & Lee University

Bar Admissions

  • Tennessee

Clerkships

  • Hon. David J. Novak, United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
  • Hon. Julia Smith Gibbons, United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

Professional Activities

  • Nashville Bar Association
  • Tennessee Bar Association

Cole’s practice focuses on complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts, with particular emphasis on trade secret disputes, LLC and partnership conflicts, contract litigation, trusts and estates disputes, and securities-related matters. Drawing on his prior experience as an investment banking analyst, Cole brings a business-minded and financially fluent approach to litigation, particularly in cases involving closely held businesses, fiduciary duties, valuation issues, and complex financial records. He represents clients through all phases of litigation, from pre-suit strategy and discovery through trial and appeal.

 

Cole is a Nashville native and a graduate of Vanderbilt University Law School, where he received the John W. Wade Scholarship, served as an Articles Editor for the Vanderbilt Law Review, and was elected to the Order of the Coif. He earned his undergraduate degree from Washington & Lee University, graduating magna cum laude and serving as captain of the Men’s Swim Team.  Prior to joining Sims|Funk, Cole served as a law clerk to Judge David J. Novak of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and to Judge Julia Smith Gibbons of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

 

Recent News

Sims|Funk Successfully Defends Am Law 100 Firm

The United States Circuit Court for the Sixth Circuit recently affirmed summary judgment obtained by Sims|Funk attorneys Scott Sims, Michael O’Neill and Erik Lybeck in a legal malpractice action against an Am Law 100 firm where the “case within the case” involved complex breach of fiduciary duty claims under Delaware law.  This win continues Sims|Funk’s […]

Rob Peal and Evan Rothey Secure Court of Appeals Victory in Tennessee Anti-SLAPP Case for Singer-Songwriter Blessing Offor

Rob Peal and Evan Rothey recently secured a published victory in the Tennessee Court of Appeals in a case interpreting the Tennessee Public Participation Act (TPPA).  The Court affirmed dismissal of an anti-SLAPP petition filed against our client, recording artist and songwriter Blessing Offor. The decision holds that private commercial communications asserting ownership of intellectual […]

Sims|Funk Shortlisted for Tennessee Firm of the Year by Benchmark Litigation

Sims|Funk has been shortlisted for Tennessee Firm of the Year by Benchmark Litigation as part of its 2026 U.S. Awards. Benchmark Litigation is a litigation-focused legal research publication that evaluates firms based on peer review, client feedback, and recent case work. The Tennessee Firm of the Year shortlist recognizes firms demonstrating sustained excellence in complex […]

Sims|Funk adds Grace Peck to the Firm

Grace has experience representing individuals, businesses, healthcare entities, and entertainment professionals in complex litigation matters in state and federal courts. She has handled a broad range of disputes, including those involving contracts, trusts and estates, business torts, intellectual property, insurance reimbursement, and other commercial matters.  Grace earned her law degree, magna cum laude, from Belmont University […]

Creson Elected to serve as NBA President-Elect

Sims|Funk attorney Beau Creson has been elected to serve as the President-Elect of the Nashville Bar Association in 2026.  He will begin his term in 2027. Founded in 1831, the NBA is one of the oldest and most active metropolitan bar associations in Tennessee. With a membership of more than 2,600 attorneys, the NBA is […]