Our Firm

You may be facing life’s challenges for the first time. We haven’t. Meet your lawyers to walk with you through it.

When life changes in an instant, our team of experienced and passionate attorneys is there—providing steady guidance, proven skill, and relentless advocacy when clients need it most.

No one plans for an unexpected loss. Whether it is from an injury, a loved one, or loss of employment, clients trust us with their life-changing challenges. Because of our passion, knowledge, and who we are, we are committed to providing both strong legal advocacy and practical guidance. Our skill set and care ensures every client receives the attention, respect, and empathy they deserve. Our goal is simple: to stand beside our clients, and not in front of; to avenge their loss by advocating for their rights; and find a way for them to move forward.

FOUNDER , ATTORNEY

Brian Elston

“We know what your up against – let our history work for you.”

Before becoming an attorney, I was a claims adjuster for an insurance company. I can still recall an injured employee who settled a claim far below its value. I realized the change an experienced attorney could have made for the employee’s life. Those experiences have given me insight, and drive, which benefits my law clients to this day. I am determined to focus on, and fight for, people who have suffered an injury. My practice is plaintiff-driven and its competitive edge is that we fight because we care. Whether advocating for clients in the areas of workers’ compensation, personal injury or civil litigation, the goal is always the same—provide clients with superior service and effective legal representation.

Education

  • B.A., UNC Chapel Hill
  • J.D, N.C. Central University School of Law (magna cum laude)

Admissions, Memberships and Awards

  • North Carolina Board Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation
  • Super Lawyers, (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026)
  • Rising Star (2017, 2018)
  • Business North Carolina Legal Elite (2016, 2017)
  • Victory Softball Sponsor (2026)
  • Mountain Fire Baseball Association, President, Volunteer (2022-present)
  • North Asheville Little League Sponsor (2019-present)
  • North Carolina State Bar
  • 4th Circuit Court of Appeals
  • U.S. District Court, Western and Middle Districts for North Carolina
  • Cherokee Tribal Court

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ATTORNEY

Corey B. Atkins

“Walking clients through legal matters is my passion because I’ve been in their shoes.”

Clients and I immediately connect because I’ve literally been in their shoes. I’ve been an attorney since 2008, but in 2025, when faced with my own legal situation, I turned to Brian Elston Law. I saw the character, work ethic, and legal strategy first hand as a client. Being an attorney with Brian Elston Law team allows me the sole opportunity to not only help clients, but connect with them about facing unexpected legal challenges and their disruption to life. My own experience continues to motivate me to provide each client with the best, most practical outcome.

Education

  • B.A., American University
  • J.D., UNC-Chapel Hill School of Law

Admissions, Memberships and Awards

  • North Carolina State Bar
  • U.S. District Court, Western District
  • Buncombe County Bar
  • American University Alumni Board
  • 2018 Biltmore Beacon Top 40 Under 40

ATTORNEY, OF COUNSEL (RETIRED)

Reed Williams

“My passion is to share the stories I’ve learned so other attorneys can learn the practice of law and life.”

Although retired, Reed continues to help clients. His many (many) war-stories over his 40 plus career as a trial attorney guide the team in how to handle difficult situations – from clients to judges, there hasn’t been a situation Reed hasn’t experienced and learned from. These lessons are passed on to the Team and further establish his legacy as not only as a great lawyer and mentor, but an even better friend.

Education

  • University of Rochester
  • Gonzaga University School of Law

Bar Admissions

  • New York State
  • United States District Court (Western District of New York)
  • Bankruptcy Court (Western District of New York)
  • North Carolina State

Paralegal

Jenna Jarrett

“Being able to see the end of a legal problem and how its changed a person’s life for the better is such a unique joy to see and continues to inspire me for each client knowing that they will get there.”

When I first started working at Brian Elston Law a little under a decade ago, I sat in on a settlement meeting with a client. Although it was a routine meeting in the practice, for the client it was the culmination of reviewing with them the legal outcome from a once-in-a-lifetime event. I saw that it wasn’t just about receiving a check – but how the Brian Elston Law Team had worked with the client to get through the legal challenges to fix the worst day of their life. The client appreciated the work, laughed at recalling the challenges faced, and at the end – shook hands with a genuine smile. To be part of that process isn’t a job for me, it’s a calling that I’ve answered everyday since then.

Education

  • North Carolina Certified Paralegal

Office Law Dog (By Appointment Only)

Brownie Jo

“It’s amazing how all my worries disappear when greeted with the hopeful eyes of Brownie Jo” – Former Client

*By Appointment Only* Clients come to the office with the heaviest of hearts. Their situation may have involved the loss of a loved one, job, or a personally injury. Time and again, a Client’s mood instantly improves if they have an opportunity to meet Brownie Jo; a slow moving dog that will look at you with eyes full of hope and belief that you are the greatest person in the world to her for that moment.