Maynard Nexsen Welcomes Former Morgan Stanley Executive Director to Financial Services Practice

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Maynard Nexsen is pleased to announce that Tim Atkins has joined the firm as a Shareholder in its Financial Services practice group. Based in Florida’s panhandle and working closely with the firm's Birmingham office, Atkins brings extensive experience advising clients on complex regulatory, compliance, investigative, and enforcement matters gained through private practice, in-house leadership roles, and distinguished government service.

Atkins' broad professional background provides clients with a unique perspective on high-stakes matters involving government investigations, regulatory scrutiny, internal investigations, and white-collar crime issues. His experience spans the private sector, federal law enforcement, and federal prosecution, allowing him to deliver strategic and practical counsel informed by a comprehensive understanding of the legal, regulatory, and business landscapes.

"Tim's extraordinary combination of law firm, in-house, prosecutorial, and federal investigative experience makes him a tremendous addition to our team," said Carole Miller, Co-Chair of Maynard Nexsen's Financial Services Practice Group. "His deep understanding of regulatory and enforcement matters, coupled with his thoughtful and strategic approach to client service, will further strengthen our ability to guide clients through their most challenging investigations, compliance issues, and regulatory proceedings. We are excited to welcome him to the firm."

Prior to joining Maynard Nexsen, Atkins served as an Executive Director in Morgan Stanley's Legal and Compliance Division, where he represented the firm in arbitrations before FINRA and led internal investigations throughout the Southeast involving allegations of fraud, misappropriation, and corporate policy violations. In these roles, he also represented the company in regulatory investigations conducted by FINRA and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Before Morgan Stanley, Atkins practiced in the litigation and controversy group of a multinational law firm, representing clients in significant government investigations involving agencies and entities including the SEC, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

Atkins also served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, where he managed grand jury investigations, prosecuted a wide range of criminal matters, and successfully briefed and argued an appeal before the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.

His government service includes more than a decade with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a Special Agent and Supervisory Special Agent. During his tenure with the FBI, Atkins supervised a white-collar crime squad, led criminal and national security computer intrusion investigations, conducted a highly sensitive internal investigation, and participated in an Independent Counsel investigation involving a Cabinet-level official.

"I am excited to join Maynard Nexsen and collaborate with such a talented group of attorneys," Atkins said. "The firm's strong reputation, client-focused culture, and national platform create an outstanding environment to help clients navigate increasingly complex regulatory, investigative, and enforcement challenges."

In addition to his legal practice, Atkins is committed to mentoring the next generation of professionals. He serves as an adjunct professor at the University of West Florida, where he teaches an undergraduate course on white-collar crime. He enjoys sharing real-world insights and experiences with students pursuing careers in law, public service, and business.

Atkins is admitted to practice in Florida and Maryland. He is also active in his community, having served on the Board of Directors of Waterfront Rescue Mission from 2011 through 2025, including as Vice President.