Nicole is a Kansas native who now calls Wyoming home. She is married to Johnny Mercer, a high school English teacher at Thunder Basin, and enjoys spending time outdoors, watching hockey, playing roller derby, and being with her family (especially her nieces and nephews).

Nicole brings nearly two decades of legal experience to Lubnau Law, with a career spanning complex litigation, government representation, and high‑level leadership. Prior to joining Lubnau Law, Nicole served as the Criminal Division Chief for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming. In that role, she managed a large team of attorneys and support staff across multiple offices throughout the state and directly supervised prosecutors handling a wide range of complicated criminal matters.

Nicole’s background gives her a deep understanding of how government entities operate, the challenges they face, and the practical solutions they need. She looks forward to using her steady, pragmatic approach to represent governmental clients. Her extensive courtroom and appellate experience also gives her a strong foundation for navigating the legal issues that arise in both planning and governance. Nicole’s approach is rooted in clarity, responsiveness, and a strong commitment to helping public institutions serve their communities effectively.

Throughout her career in public service, Nicole developed a people-first approach to the law. Much of her work involved helping victims and their families navigate difficult and often overwhelming circumstances, ensuring they were heard, supported, and guided through each step of the process. That experience shaped the way she approaches her work today.

Nicole is excited to focus her practice on trusts and estates, where she can continue working closely with individuals and families during important life moments. She enjoys helping clients plan ahead, protect what matters most, and create clarity and peace of mind for the future. She is committed to providing thoughtful guidance and practical solutions tailored to each family’s needs.

Honors and Awards

• U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Elitigation Working Group, Chair, 2026

• U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Chief’s Working Group, Member, 2025

• U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Legal Education, Instructor, 2023-2025

• Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center, Keynote Speaker at Annual Fundraiser, April 2013

• National Institute of Trial Advocacy, Instructor, 2011-2020

Pro Bono Activities

• Cheyenne Roller Derby, Coach/Volunteer

• Meals on Wheels, Volunteer

• Regular presenter and volunteer at public high schools