Christopher D. Hughes, Class of ’07

As a Partner at Nossaman LLP in Sacramento, Christopher D. Hughes ’07 typically represents trustees and creditors in bankruptcy and commercial litigation. He has also counseled clients on claims ranging from securities fraud to embezzlement to Ponzi schemes. As a trial attorney, he has litigated numerous non-bankruptcy related matters, including defending the California State Assembly in an employment lawsuit that culminated in a six-week jury trial, a Constitutional law action against the State of California, and a breach of contract action involving fake emails used to trick a payor into paying a fraudulent bank account.

He currently chairs the Business Law Section of the California Lawyers Association and appears in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers in America. As a student, Hughes helped found the King Hall Negotiations Team. 

What do you find interesting about bankruptcy law?

I enjoy the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives during some of their most difficult financial times. Bankruptcy law often involves helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal and financial situations, and it's rewarding to see how a well-managed bankruptcy process can provide a fresh start.

As a creditors’ rights attorney, I enjoy the strategic aspect of the work. Creditors often have complex and competing interests, and it's my job to protect those interests within the bankruptcy framework. It’s challenging and rewarding to navigate the intricacies of bankruptcy law in a way that maximizes recovery for creditors while also adhering to legal and procedural requirements. I am also cognizant that the goal of a reorganization is to have a debtor emerge from the bankruptcy and that means there is the potential for the business to continue doing business with my client. 

Additionally, the adversarial nature of creditor representation means that I often find myself engaging in complex litigation, which keeps the work dynamic and intellectually stimulating. Every case is different, and there’s always the opportunity to hone negotiation skills, delve into financial analysis, and creatively resolve disputes to achieve the best possible outcome for my client.

No industry is safe from bankruptcy, so I get to learn about many different types of businesses and industries. Plus, the interplay between the financial and legal aspects of bankruptcy allows me to work closely with clients and other professionals—whether it’s financial advisors, accountants, or opposing counsel—creating a dynamic environment that keeps things interesting.

But above all, it's the ability to help clients achieve a sense of relief and move forward in a positive direction that I find the most fulfilling part of the job.

Did you begin law school knowing what kind of law you wanted to practice? 

I had a long circuitous path to becoming an insolvency and creditors’ rights attorney. I started law school with a desire to be a civil rights attorney, representing people with disabilities. I later transitioned to securities law and intellectual property law, before finally choosing to focus on insolvency law and litigation. 

What do you do when you aren’t working?

I like to read, hike, engage in various woodworking projects in my workshop (aka my garage), and travel with my girlfriend. I have tried several DIY projects at home with varying levels of success. I live close to a large park in Sacramento, and I can often be found there. 

Why did you choose to attend King Hall?

I attended UC Davis as an undergraduate before moving to Los Angeles for a few years, so I already knew the town and the Davis community. 

I chose to come back to Davis and attend King Hall because of its strong reputation for providing a well-rounded legal education with a focus on public service, social justice, and practical skills. I knew I wanted to be an attorney who could not only think critically but also apply that knowledge in real-world situations, and King Hall offered the resources and opportunities to help me do that. At the time, it was also an affordable option, both in terms of tuition and the cost of living in Davis. I also really liked the comradery and community feel of the school. I knew my penchant for daily walks would lead me to amble along the path next to Putah Creek during breaks from my classes. Ultimately, I chose King Hall because it felt like a place where I could grow as both a legal professional and an individual, and it turned out to be exactly that.

What is your favorite King Hall memory?

One of my favorite King Hall memories was creating the King Hall Negotiations Team with Micah Nilsson and Professor Donna Shestowsky. The three of us worked together in multiple competitions and we wanted to develop something we could pass down to future students. We drafted bylaws, asked some of our friends to be on the initial board, and then identified 2L students to be the leaders for the next year. It is amazing to see what it has developed into today. 

How have you stayed involved with King Hall?

Most years, I attend the Capitol reception in Sacramento. My firm participates in OCI interviews and we brought on two King Hall students to be summer associates this year. I often participate as a judge in the negotiations competitions, and I have spoken to students on various panels throughout the years, including Professor Shestowsky’s 1L class. I also regularly interact with King Hall alumni in the community. Recently, I had a trial where all four attorneys in the courtroom were King Hall alumni. 

Of what are you proudest?

I take pride in providing the best services I can to my clients and contributing to the legal community through organizations like the California Lawyers Association or the National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees. 

Do you have any advice for current law students?

Don’t be afraid to try things that you are not good at or that feel uncomfortable at first. In high school, I was terrified of public speaking, but I found my voice in moot court, mock trial, and negotiations competitions. Use law school as a laboratory to experiment, especially with things that, at first, you find uncomfortable. You may find that, with a little practice, you are better than you think.