Skip to Content

Overview

Marcus Shields has traveled some exciting paths on his way to Ellis & Winters. At the heart of his journey has always been pursuing and protecting the rights and best interests of others.

He began his legal career in private practice at a small Eastern North Carolina law firm, representing individuals who were often facing their worst peril and in need of a strong advocate. Afterwards, he worked as a Post-Conviction Attorney with North Carolina Prisoner Legal Services, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina.  Thereafter, he became an Assistant Public Defender at the Guilford County Public Defender’s Office. He represented clients in both District and Superior Court, again providing fierce advocacy. Recognized for his dedication and expertise, he was appointed as a District Court Judge by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper in May of 2018, and later ran and won election. He has presided over matters in every district courtroom in Guilford County and was the presiding judge for the Greensboro Juvenile Drug Treatment Court, the High Point Juvenile Drug Treatment Court, and the Greensboro Adult Mental Health Court.

As a litigator at Ellis & Winters, Marcus brings his vast array of legal and procedural knowledge to bear representing clients in complex commercial disputes and tort matters. He remains a passionate advocate for his clients, learning their business, understanding their goals and needs, and providing thoughtful and strategic representation. Given his background, Marcus can provide an insider’s approach when determining the best course of action for each client and case.

Marcus was born a people-person and continues to serve as a community volunteer feeding the less fortunate, giving back to local schools, and mentoring others. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina.  He earned his Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University, School of Law in Durham, North Carolina. His genuine interest in helping people led him to the law and to becoming an attorney.  Marcus actively participates and serves in leadership roles in a plethora of civic organizations. He is a member of the Greensboro Bar Association; the Guilford Inn of Court; and the Guilford County Association of Black Lawyers; the North Carolina Bar Association; the American Bar Association; and the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers. He has served as an adjunct law professor at Elon University, School of Law. Among his honors and awards, Marcus was selected in 2022 by Black Business Ink as a “40 Under 40” Most Influential African Americans in the Triad.

Even though Marcus has a very busy career, he makes sure to spend time with his large extended family and friend group, attend church, and find some time for an occasional fishing, antiquing, or beach trip. He is also a self-professed “foodie” especially fresh seafood and a car-fanatic, checking out all the latest automobile models. And lastly, but very importantly, Marcus enjoys spending time with his three beautiful dogs, London, Ruth, and Sammie.

 

 

Credentials

Education

  • J.D., North Carolina Central University School of Law, 2011
  • B.A., University of South Carolina, 2008
    • Honors: Cum Laude

Bar Admissions

  • North Carolina

Court Admissions

U.S. District Courts

  • Eastern District of North Carolina
  • Middle District of North Carolina
  • Western District of North Carolina

Memberships and Associations

  • High Point University School of Law, 2023 Present
  • Guilford Inn of Court
  • Greensboro Bar Association 
    • Immediate Past President, 2023-Present
    • President, 2022-2023
    • President Elect, 2021-2022
    • Board of Directors, 2015-Present
  • 24th Judicial District Bar ( formerly 18th Judicial District Bar)
    • President, 2022-2023
    • Vice President, 2021-2022
    • Member, 2013-Present
  • Guilford County Association of Black Lawyers
    • President, 2018-2019
    • Treasurer, 2015-2017
    • Member, 2013-Present
    • Chairperson, 2017-2018
    • Member, 2013-2018
  • NC Advocates for Justice
    • Member, 2011-2018

Experience

  • District Court Judge, North Carolina
  • Assistant Public Defender, Guilford County Public Defender’s Office
  • Post-Conviction Attorney, North Carolina Prisoner Legal Services, Inc.

Presentations/Pulications

Awards/Recognition

  • 2022 Black Business Ink “40 Under 40” Most Influential African Americans in the Triad