Devlin Horton

Attorney

Bio

Lead Trial Lawyer and Founding Partner

Devlin Horton is a highly accomplished trial lawyer and the lead litigator at Horton & Mendez Injury Lawyers, where he focuses on representing individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. Known for his relentless drive, exceptional legal acumen, and aggressive courtroom strategies, Devlin has built a reputation as one of North Carolina’s most accomplished trial lawyers—and one of the nation’s rising stars in personal injury law.

At just 35 years old, Devlin achieved a remarkable milestone when his client was awarded a $38.2 million verdict, the second-largest personal injury verdict in North Carolina history at the time. This was also the largest verdict in Pitt County history. This extraordinary win is a testament to his skill and commitment to securing life-changing outcomes for his clients. Devlin’s passion for justice and his tenacity in the courtroom have earned him a coveted place among the nation’s top trial lawyers.

Before founding Horton & Mendez, Devlin spent six years representing major insurance companies and defending corporations against personal injury claims. This unique background gives him unparalleled insight into how insurers think, negotiate, and prepare for trial. This knowledge has proven invaluable when advocating for clients against well-funded corporate defendants. Devlin’s experience on the defense side gives him a significant edge in understanding the tactics employed by insurance companies and their attorneys, which he uses to counter their strategies with precision and effectiveness.

Devlin’s success is not only reflected in his verdicts but also in the recognition he has received from his peers. He was inducted as the youngest North Carolinian to both the National Trial Lawyers Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum—exclusive organizations that recognize trial lawyers who have secured million- and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements. Devlin was also named to The National Trial Lawyers: 40 Under 40, which highlights the country’s top personal injury attorneys under the age of 40.

Devlin’s commitment to excellence in trial law has earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Super Lawyer for five consecutive years—a distinction awarded to just 2.5% of attorneys in North Carolina. He is also a regular speaker and instructor for the North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ), where he shares his expertise on trial tactics and strategies with fellow attorneys.

Clients who work with Devlin benefit from his unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of justice. Whether in the courtroom or negotiating a settlement, Devlin’s approach is always client-focused, ensuring that his clients receive the full value of their claims. He leaves no stone unturned and puts everything he has into each case, knowing the life-changing impact a successful outcome can have for his clients and their families.

When he’s not in the courtroom, Devlin enjoys spending time with his wife, Liz, and their red golden retriever, Sam. He’s an avid outdoorsman who loves duck hunting, fishing, and surfing and is an enthusiastic supporter of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels.

With a track record of securing landmark verdicts and settlements, Devlin Horton is a sought-after trial lawyer who has earned the respect of both his clients and his peers. If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, Devlin will fight tirelessly to ensure your case is handled with the urgency, skill, and attention it deserves.

EXPERIENCE:

Represented many national and specialty insurance groups and companies, small and large businesses including Fortune 500 corporations, municipalities, and public utility companies.

PROFESSIONAL AND CIVIC INVOLVEMENT:

New Hanover County Bar Association
Selected by Super Lawyers to the “Rising Stars” in the top 2.5%
Member of the Southern Trial Lawyers Association
Member of the American Association for Justice
Member of the North Carolina Association for Justice