The team at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP excels at dealership litigation and regulation, advising on the establishment of new dealers, enforcement action matters, as well as a range of franchising and distribution matters. The practice also has experience in electric vehicle mandates and product liability matters. In South Carolina, Steven McKelvey is frequently engaged in establishing new dealership locations, addressing a range of warranty reimbursement issues, and resolving ownership disputes. California's Richard Otera is well-versed in advising both leading motor vehicle manufacturers and emerging companies in the space. Also in South Carolina, Sally Caver is a key contact for commercial contract negotiations. Rounding out the team in Washington DC is Christie Iannetta. McKelvey, Otera, and Caver lead the team alongside South Carolina’s Ronnie McMahan and Dallas-based Suzanne Swaner. Andy Bertron retired in December 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Key clients
- Acura
- Audi
- Aston Martin
- BMW
- Czinger
- Daimler Trucks
- FCA US LLC (Hudson)
- Fiat Chrysler (Stellantis)
- Ford
- General Motors
- Genesis
- Honda
Work highlights
Representing Mitsubishi Motors North America in a legal dispute over the company's plan to add a new dealership in the Orlando area.
Represented Hyundai Motor America Corp. in a lawsuit regarding vehicle allocation practices.
Representing Nissan North America, Inc. in a federal court dispute in Newark, New Jersey, involving an Englewood Infiniti dealer's alleged failure to pay for approximately $3.5 million worth of vehicles delivered in fall 2024.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Christie Iannetta
Practice head
Steve McKelvey; Rich Otera; Ronnie McMahan; Suzanne Swaner; Sally Caver
Other key lawyers
Christie Iannetta