October 16, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – GrayRobinson is pleased to welcome Nicole Vele as a shareholder in its Washington, D.C., office. A distinguished U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General (JAG) veteran and seasoned litigator, Vele has in-depth experience navigating complex government contracts and high-stakes litigation.
Vele provides clients with strategic guidance on government contracting issues, including pre and post award bid protests, performance issues, contract modifications, terminations, and claims. She has extensive trial and litigation experience and regularly handles contract disputes and protests. In addition, Vele manages multi-billion-dollar contracting matters and delivers clear, practical guidance to acquisition teams.
“Nicole’s unique blend of legal acumen, leadership experience, and government insight perfectly complements our legal-lobbying team, which has been embedded in the federal landscape for over three decades,” said GrayRobinson Washington, D.C. Managing Shareholder John Ariale. “Her addition strengthens our ability to deliver comprehensive legal and government affairs solutions to clients operating at the intersection of business, policy, and regulation in Washington, D.C., and beyond.”
“I’m thrilled to join GrayRobinson’s dynamic team in Washington,” said Vele. “The firm’s deep integration of legal and lobbying services creates a powerful platform for advising clients on government contracting and federal litigation. I look forward to helping organizations navigate complex regulatory environments, mitigate risk, and achieve mission success.”
Vele is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia, New York, and Wisconsin, as well as before the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. An active member of the American Bar Association’s Public Contract Law Section, Vele serves on several committees focused on advancing excellence and innovation in federal procurement law.
She earned an LL.M. in Government Procurement and Fiscal Law from The George Washington University Law School, a Juris Doctor and Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Quality from Marian University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Marquette University.
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About GrayRobinson
GrayRobinson is a multidimensional team of attorneys, advisors, and consultants recognized as one of the most influential legal-lobbying firms in Florida. Its nearly 300 professionals partner with successful businesses and enterprising individuals to close pivotal deals, resolve disputes, anticipate industry shifts, and harness forward momentum. The firm serves clients nationally from 16 offices across Florida and Washington, D.C. Learn more at Gray-Robinson.com.
CONTACT
Kristen Bridges, kristen.bridges@gray-robinson.com, 850.545.1917