Profile: Nick Stokes

Profile: Nick Stokes
Taken from 'CSI:Crime Scene Investigation Companion' by Mike Flaherty and Corinne Marrinan
Published by Pocket Books

Born and raised in Dallas to a family of law enforcers, Nick Stokes was destined for a future in public service. His father, a Texas Supreme Court Judge, and his mother, a Defense Attorney, both had high expectations for their son. Growing up the youngest of seven siblings, Nick was a well-rounded, straight-A student and star of his varsity football team. Accustomed to being met with more criticism than praise, he found himself always trying to please his strict and unemotional father.

The Stokes' children were taught to earn their rewards, so despite a very comfortable standard of living Nick was not spoiled in any way. On the occasion of his sixteenth birthday, he was given an encyclopedia set rather than the car he desperately wanted. Although naturally disappointed at the time, he learned to appreciate the work ethic they instilled in him, as well as the encyclopedias, which he still uses today.

Outgoing and popular in high school, Nick was known for being a loyal friend. Always the sympathetic ear and designated driver, he was dubbed 'Mr. Dependable' among his peers. He began an ambitious course load in college, majoring in pre-law at Rice University. It was there, while taking his required science classes that he became enamored with advanced chemistry. Knowing he had found his calling, he looked for a field of study that would combine his two passions: science and law. After his freshman year, he decided he wanted a change and transferred to Texas A&M to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice, while also making time for the college football team and rushing a fraternity.

Nick came into his own in college, escaping from the rigidity of his family life and learning to think for himself. He did, however, retain a deeply embedded code of honor inherited from his parents which he has carried through his life. From his love of football, he has retained a respect for the value of teamwork, as well as a healthy competitive streak.

After graduating at the top of his class, Nick took a job with the Dallas Crime Lab, specializing in hair and fiber analysis. Even after three years on the job, he found it difficult to escape the imposing shadow of the Stokes family name and felt the need to work twice as hard to prove himself. Eager to make his own way, he responded to a job posting with the LVPD for entry level CSI position under supervisor Gil Grissom. As soon as Nick interviewed for the job, he knew this was where he wanted to be and Grissom was the man he wanted to learn from.

The move to Las Vegas was a culture shock for the clean-cut Nick Stokes. What he lacked in street-savvy, he made up for in common sense and strength of character. Nick takes pride in speaking for the victims, but also takes great care in comforting the survivors. After four challenging years working under Grissom, Nick was promoted to a CSI Level 3. A compassionate man, Nick often feels deeply for others, but does his best to remain an objective professional.