Title: Founding Partner
Company: Sunridge Legal LLP
Location: San Diego, California, United States
Connor McNellis, founding partner at Sunridge Legal LLP, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Lawyers for dedication, achievements, and leadership in legal services.
Mr. McNellis is a distinguished legal professional with exceptional finance and real estate expertise. Since 2022, he has been the founding partner of Sunridge Legal LLP in San Diego, California, where he has demonstrated significant leadership and strategic vision for technology, life sciences and renewable energy clients. In his role, he provides his clients with expert advice in navigating and closing real estate transitions. As such, Mr. McNellis focuses on strategic guidance to ensure their legal and commercial interests are protected. He notably works with tenants, investors, borrowers, lenders and developers, providing cost-effective solutions to support their investment goals.
In addition to his role at Sunridge Legal LLP, Mr. McNellis established McNellis Law Group PC in 2021, where he continues to serve as owner and attorney. His decision to leave a secure position in a major law firm to start his own practice marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to personal growth.
Earlier in his career, Mr. McNellis was an attorney at Clean Energy Counsel LLP, a law practice headquartered in San Francisco devoted to advancing clean energy and a sustainable future. His tenure from 2020 to 2021 allowed him to hone his skills in the burgeoning field of clean energy law. Between 2015 and 2020, Mr. McNellis served as an associate attorney at Cooley LLP, an international law firm based in Palo Alto, California, where he gained valuable experience in intellectual property, regulatory matters and high-stakes litigation.
Mr. McNellis began his legal career as a United States Court of Appeals law clerk for the Honorable John R. Rodenberg at the Minnesota Judicial Center between 2013 and 2014. This role followed his time as a law clerk and legal assistant at Beisel & Dunlevy PA, where he worked from 2009 to 2013. These early experiences laid the foundation for his future success in the legal profession.
In preparation for his legal career, Mr. McNellis began with a Bachelor of Arts in international studies from Boston College in 2009, followed by a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Minnesota Law School in 2013. While in law school, he was inducted into the prestigious Order of the Coif, reflecting his academic excellence.
Mr. McNellis’ commitment to excellence has been recognized through various accolades. His dedication to pro bono work and community service earned him a Pro Bono Achievement Award from Cooley LLP. Thomson Reuters also nominated him as a Standout Lawyer for 2025. Mr. McNellis attributes much of his success to focusing on technical skills, leveraging technology to meet client expectations, and supporting loyal clients who have trusted him over the years.
Looking toward future opportunities as a leading lawyer, Mr. McNellis aims to remain adaptable within the rapidly evolving legal industry by leveraging the flexibility offered by being part of a small firm. He also intends to continue making a name for himself in the areas of technology, life sciences and renewable energy, becoming well-recognized for his passion and commitment to making a difference in this sector.
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