Morningstar Law Group – Raleigh Law Firm – Durham NC Attorneys

David Nahm is a commercial real estate lawyer who advises clients on complex commercial real estate transactions, real estate development projects, and land use issues. He works closely with real estate developers from start to finish — guiding them from initial negotiation and drafting of purchase agreements, through subdivision, development, and declaration of covenants, to municipal approvals, construction, and eventual sale. He assists landlords in reviewing and drafting complex commercial leases and represents clients in zoning variances, municipal ordinance amendments, and appeals of property tax assessments.

With a background in litigation, David understands the difficulties that can arise in a transaction and uses that awareness to protect his clients’ interests by limiting liability and risk. Collaborative by nature, David works with clients to think through the potential ramifications of a real estate transaction so that they can make the best possible decision for their business.

Prior to joining Morningstar, David spent more than a decade practicing commercial real estate law in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. He also taught several pre-law courses at James Madison and Eastern Mennonite University. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, reading long novels, and listening to the amazing music of the Triangle.


What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“There is nothing more powerful than listening.”

Accolades

  • Best Lawyers: Real Estate Law (2025)
  • Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Rated Attorney
  • Super Lawyer: Rising Star (2015-2017)

Representative Experience

  • Represents real estate developers in the acquisition and subdivision of property for development of single family, townhouse, apartment, and condominium communities, including working with municipalities to obtain the necessary rezoning and site plan approval.
  • Represents general contractors and subcontractors in negotiating and drafting contracts for both private and public projects, and in resolving contract disputes, including representing clients in State and Federal Courts.
  • Represents lenders in connection with defaulted loans on real estate development projects, including successfully representing clients in State and Federal Courts and resolving numerous, complex mechanic’s lien issues.
  • Represents commercial landlords in negotiating and drafting complex leases for commercial properties and advising clients in relation to tenant default and disputes related thereto.
  • Represents property owners and developers before local governments and municipal bodies in relation to zoning issues, including zoning violations and applications for variances and special use permits.
  • Represented oil company in the purchase of chain of gas stations, including the acquisition of a complex assortment of real properties owned or leased by the seller.

Education

  • The University of North Carolina School of Law (2007)
  • Centre College, B.A. (1997)

Admissions

  • North Carolina State Bar (2021)
  • Massachusetts State Bar (2010)
  • Virginia State Bar (2007)
  • S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia (2015)
  • S. District Court, Western District of Virginia (2008)
  • Bankruptcy Court of the Eastern District of Virginia (2013)
  • Bankruptcy Court of the Western District of Virginia (2008)

Professional

  • Wake County Bar Association: Continuing Legal Education Committee (2023)
  • North Carolina Bar Association: Professionalism Committee (2023)
  • Harrisonburg-Rockingham Bar Association: Secretary (2009-2010) Chair, Bar Professionalism Committee (2011-2021)
  • Board of Zoning Appeals, Harrisonburg, Virginia: Board Member (2013-2014)
  • Blue Ridge Legal Services: Volunteer (2007-2021) Pro Bono Award Recipient (2009, 2018)
  • The Collins Center: Board of Directors (2014-2021), Chair, Governance Committee (2018-2021)
  • Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance: Organization Committee (2008-2009)
  • James Madison University: Adjunct Faculty (2012-2014)
  • Eastern Mennonite University: Adjunct Faculty, Pre-Law Advisor (2011-2012)