Specialties
Van Riper & Nies Attorneys in Stuart, Florida is a veteran-owned law firm committed to delivering strategic, trial-ready representation in personal injury, auto accidents, family law, criminal defense, DUI Defense, Longshore claims, Defense Base Act claims and Maritime Injury claims. Our firm is led by attorneys Tim Nies and Christian Van Riper, both dedicated to hands-on client service and strong courtroom advocacy.
Tim Nies, an Army Ranger Veteran and former lead insurance defense attorney, uses his deep understanding of how insurance companies evaluate and defend claims to pursue the maximum recovery for injured clients. His background brings uncommon insight, discipline, and tenacity to every case.
Christian Van Riper, a near-lifelong Stuart resident, leads our family law and criminal defense practices. As a former prosecutor and former DCF investigator, he brings extensive knowledge of how cases are built from the inside, allowing him to guide clients through divorce, custody disputes, juvenile matters, dependency cases, DUI defense, and all misdemeanors and felonies with clarity and confidence.
What sets our firm apart is our team-driven approach, our responsiveness, and our commitment to outworking opposing counsel. Clients trust us for straightforward communication, careful preparation, and strong results. We take pride in protecting our clients’ futures with professionalism, integrity, and relentless effort.
History
Established in 2001.
Stuart, Florida Law Partners and Trial Lawyers, Tim Nies, an Army Ranger Veteran and Chris Van Riper, a former Prosecutor are the owners of Van Riper and Nies Attorneys, P.A.
Meet the Business Owner: Tim N.
Tim Nies is a trial attorney and Army Ranger Veteran leading the personal injury and Defense Base Act practice at Van Riper & Nies Attorneys in Stuart, Florida. A former insurance-defense lawyer, Tim brings uncommon insight into how insurers evaluate claims, using that experience to fight for the maximum recovery for injured clients across Martin and St. Lucie Counties. His practice includes auto accidents, premises liability, wrongful death, maritime injuries, and representing civilian contractors injured overseas.
Known for his preparation, responsiveness, and steady guidance, Tim works directly with clients at every stage of their case. He is committed to clear communication, strategic case planning, and outworking opposing counsel. Clients choose Tim for his disciplined approach, genuine care, and results-driven representation, qualities shaped by years in the courtroom and his Ranger background.
Tim's partner handles criminal defense, divorce and family law cases at the firm.