Nicki is a Board Certified Specialist in Family Law, one of only five attorneys with this certification in Johnston County. As a specialist, Nicki has extensive knowledge of the law and experience in navigating clients through the challenges of separation and divorce. Clients appreciate Nicki’s approachable style, responsiveness, and passionate advocacy.
Nicki is also certified as a Family Financial Mediator by the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission. She strives to assist families in reaching amicable financial resolutions whenever possible.
Nicki was born and raised in Wayne County, just a few miles from the Johnston County line. She grew up on a family farm in the Grantham area with her two brothers and twin sister. Her father is a third-generation farmer, and her mother is a retired public school teacher. Having spent her childhood on her family’s farm, Nicki has always loved the slow pace, small town lifestyle and has a strong appreciation for agriculture, hard work, and family.
Nicki graduated summa cum laude from the University of Mount Olive and then obtained her Masters Degree in Business Administration and Juris Doctorate degree from Campbell University. While attending law school, Nicki served as a Teaching Scholar mentoring and tutoring first year law students. She completed several internships in Wayne and Wake counties.
Upon graduating from law school in 2012, Nicki began practicing law at Woodruff & Fortner in Smithfield, NC where she focused on family law and became a partner at the firm. In 2025, Nicki decided to open Sanderson Family Law and continue her established family law practice serving clients in Johnston County and surrounding areas.
When not practicing law, Nicki enjoys spending time with her husband (Chris) and three children (Reese, Owen, & Nora). She is happiest being outdoors with her family. She enjoys gardening, reading and working out.
Nicki finds joy in giving back to the youth in her community. She serves Wayne County youth as a co-leader of the Swingepig 4-H Club, an agriculturally based 4-H club in the Grantham area. Nicki is also on the Wayne County Junior Livestock Show & Sale Committee. She is an active member of St. John PH Church in Four Oaks, NC where she serves on the Church Board as deaconess and Women’s Ministry Board, teaches toddler church, and assists with the music ministry.
