Clients describe Peter Nissly as a thoughtful, client-focused litigator who brings focus, judgment, and persistence to complex disputes. They value his ability to understand what truly matters to them and to tailor litigation strategies that align with their goals. Peter says, “Disputes are deeply personal for clients. My role is to focus on the issues that matter most and pursue results that make a real difference for them.”

Peter represents businesses and individuals in a wide range of litigation matters, with a practice that has increasingly focused on representing real estate developers in complex disputes. His work includes business litigation, employment and fiduciary duty claims, contract disputes, and other high-stakes matters involving significant financial and reputational risk. Clients rely on his ability to manage difficult situations with clarity, efficiency, and a steady hand.

Peter became an attorney because he enjoys helping people solve complex problems. During law school, he interned with the public defender’s office and volunteered with the Northern California Innocence Project, experiences that shaped his approach to advocacy and client service. Today, that foundation informs his commitment to helping clients navigate some of the most challenging issues they face and to provide representation that is both strategic and grounded in the client’s priorities.

Peter represents a diverse client base, including publicly traded companies, large and mid-size real estate developers, and individuals involved in highly contentious disputes. He is known for his ability to adapt his approach based on each client’s objectives, recognizing that success can look different depending on the circumstances and the client’s desired outcome.

At the core of Peter’s practice is a client-centered philosophy. He works closely with clients to understand their goals and develops litigation strategies designed to achieve those goals effectively and efficiently. Clients appreciate his focus on practical outcomes and his commitment to guiding them through disputes with transparency and care.

Areas of Focus

Services

Sectors

Experience

  • Successfully represented Broadcom Corporation in both prosecuting and defending multiple actions pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1782 to obtain discovery for use in foreign patent infringement proceedings.
  • Represented a vehicle lease company in a highly contested contract dispute against a leading ride-share provider.
  • Obtained two significant settlements for an intellectual property licensing consulting firm arising out of separate contract actions.
  • Successfully represented an information technology services company in a trade secret action against a former employee, achieving a favorable settlement.
  • Part of the trial team that successfully defended claims alleging clients forged their parents’ trust.
  • Part of the trial team that obtained an order restoring property converted by an elder’s accountant to a family trust following a four-week trial.

Credentials

Education

  • Santa Clara University School of Law (J.D.)
  • Santa Clara University (B.S., Political Science)

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • California, 2010

Court Admissions

  • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California

Recognitions

  • Selected among the Best Lawyers in America, Litigation (Trusts and Estates), 2024

Publications

Professional Activities

  • American Bar Association, Member
  • Santa Clara County Bar Association, Member