Ellis Family Law was built to help people navigate some of life’s most personal and high-stakes moments with clarity, strategy, and genuine care. Gray Ellis is the Founder and Managing Partner of the firm, and for more than 20 years, he has helped shape the standards, culture, and approach that guide the team’s work every day.
Gray is a North Carolina Board Certified Specialist in Family Law—a distinction held by fewer than 2% of family law practitioners statewide—and has been recognized for excellence by multiple independent attorney rating organizations. Today, his role is focused on leadership and oversight: ensuring the firm delivers exceptional service, strong advocacy, and consistent client experience across every case.
Perspective matters in family law, and Gray brings it both professionally and personally. As a parent who has experienced separation, he understands how stressful and disorienting this process can be—especially when children and long-term stability are at stake. That insight informs how he leads the firm: with high expectations, empathy, and a deep commitment to protecting families through transition.
While Gray does not personally accept new matters, he plays an active role in ensuring clients receive the right attorney and the right strategy:
Gray also believes strongly in serving the broader community. He was a Board Member of Meals on Wheels Durham and created the Feed the Need Gala, an annual effort supporting seniors facing nutritional challenges.
Outside the office, Gray enjoys tennis, golf, traveling, and ACC sports.
To get started, schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. We’ll match you with the best-fit advocate for your situation and help you move forward with a clear plan.
I was referred to Ellis Family Law by a friend of mine. He had nothing but great things to say about them. I found out he was right. He and...
I was referred to Ellis Family Law by a friend of mine. He had nothing but great things to say about them. I found out he was right. He and I retained Autumn Osbourne as our Attorney. Autumn is very knowledgeable and professional. She works diligently to get the job done. In my opinion Autumn Osbourne is the best!
I not only felt I had the best Attorney on my side, but I also felt at the end of my case I now have a new set of friends at Ellis Law firm.
I had a great experience with Ellis Family Law during a very stressful time. I first reached out over the holidays and spoke with Christina, who was kind, responsive, and...
I had a great experience with Ellis Family Law during a very stressful time. I first reached out over the holidays and spoke with Christina, who was kind, responsive, and willing to help when they easily could have said to call back later. The firm moved quickly on short notice, and senior attorney Kathleen Murphy and attorney Tony Kehoe were extremely prepared and professional in court. They clearly understood the situation and handled it calmly and confidently. After a disappointing experience with a previous attorney, working with Ellis Family Law was a huge relief. I felt supported and well represented — and for the first time in a long while, I slept like a baby the night before court. — Edward C. Rosa,
It’s nice to find an honest attorney who actually has your best interests at heart, excellent experience
...It’s nice to find an honest attorney who actually has your best interests at heart, excellent experience
What a great company!! They are phenomenal to work with!! They really are super organized in what they do!
...What a great company!! They are phenomenal to work with!! They really are super organized in what they do!
Ellis Family Law took my situation from almost impossible to a breeze! Sarah Mercer was knowledgeable, kind, and patient with me, and her drive proved her passion in finding the...
Ellis Family Law took my situation from almost impossible to a breeze! Sarah Mercer was knowledgeable, kind, and patient with me, and her drive proved her passion in finding the best possible outcome for me. I will definitely be recommending this company to anyone who may need it!
Due to marital separation,it was very important for me to update my estate plan. I received excellent services during the process. I am very pleased with finished documents, and Ellis...
Due to marital separation,it was very important for me to update my estate plan. I received excellent services during the process. I am very pleased with finished documents, and Ellis Family Law to anyone who is seeking estate planning.
And for a fun twist: don’t miss our “Pour Decisions” section, featuring wine tips from our lawyer-wine specialist Gray Ellis!
