Voices of NCAJ

To NCAJ members who have an appeal or just want another set of eyes on a brief, Sam McGee says, “Shoot me an email.” As NCAJ’s Legal Affairs counsel, he oversees the organization's amicus briefs program and moot courts while representing member interests at the State Bar Ethics Committee. In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, Sam outlines the committee’s advocacy, including its amicus brief in a recent North Carolina Supreme Court eminent domain case. He also discusses how it supports members, including brief reviews, moot courts, and informal assistance that spans all practice areas. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Sam McGee 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:07] Watchdog: As NCAJ’s Legal Affairs counsel, Sam supports members by monitoring the State Bar Ethics Committee publications for its proposed opinions and rule changes. [02:42] Potential Red Flag: Sam details how NCAJ's intervention prevented a problematic ethics opinion that could have undermined criminal defendants' rights to discovery. [05:16] Beyond PI and Med-Mal: The Legal Affairs Committee has a strong representation of criminal defense practitioners so that it addresses concerns of all members. [08:12] Moot Court Program: The Legal Affairs Committee conducted 19 moot courts last fiscal year, serving everyone from first-time appellate attorneys to experienced practitioners. [09:34] There for Everybody: Sam encourages members of all ages and experience levels to take advantage of moot courts and brief assistance. [11:32] Town of Apex v. Rubin: The Supreme Court of North Carolina recently agreed with the NCAJ’s amicus brief in an eminent domain case, protecting property rights and establishing important precedents. [15:22] Safe Child Act Cases: Sam describes NCAJ's involvement in three cases that upheld the extended statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases. [20:39] Ethics CLE: The Legal Affairs Committee is planning for the February 25 ethics CLE, which will cover artificial intelligence and ethical concerns from TV shows and movies. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice...

As a social worker, Billie Guthrie was drawn into all the factors at play in her clients’ struggles. As a Social Security Disability attorney for The Deuterman Law Group, she is laser-focused on getting clients the benefits they deserve. Tune in to this conversation with host Amber Nimocks as Billie reflects on her unique journey to making “tangible differences” in clients’ lives. And attend the NCAJ’s upcoming day-long CLE, "Social Security Disability Updates and Practical Pointers for 2025 and Beyond," to learn more about her strategies and insights. Held at NCAJ’s Raleigh headquarters, the September 18 event will kick-off the fall season of in-person, member-led CLE programming. Billie’s topic for the CLE is strengthening cases involving mental health impairments and substance abuse, but email her if you’re attending and have a question. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Billie Guthrie Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [03:00] Clear Path in Mind: Billie intentionally attended Appalachian State to earn a Bachelor's of Social Work because it fast-tracked her to earn an MSW. [06:22] Social Justice: Billie didn’t know much about what a social worker actually does – but she knew the vocation aligned with her values. [08:48] Club Nova Experience: Billie details her meaningful work at a psychiatric rehabilitation program for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. [12:07] Critical Choice: As she entered her MSW program, Billie faced a choice: Did she want to do therapy or policy-based work? She chose the latter. [14:14] Policy Advocacy: One of Billie’s first policy roles was with a project called Reclaiming Futures, which focused on fixing the preschool-to-prision pipeline. [15:40] Law School: Billie explains how her desire to learn more and be more effective drove her to attend Central's evening program while working full time. [18:30] The Motivation: Billie’s transition to law was inspired by seeing how systems confined efforts to help people. “I saw: This person's success in the community is only going to go so far if our systems are set up in the way that they're set up.” Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North...

Curiosity has driven Leslie’s Leake’s remarkable career, which NCAJ recently celebrated with the awarding of its prestigious Robby Price Award. The lead paralegal for the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin, Leslie said her advice to up-and-coming paralegals who want to stay engaged in their careers: Keep asking questions. “Stay curious,” she says. Her nominator described her as an “unspoken hero.” In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, Leslie shares her path from defense to plaintiff's work, tales from the frontlines (including climbing on file cabinets and facing down barking dogs), and lessons learned from serving everyone from judges to clients in shackles. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Leslie Leake, Law Offices of James Scott Farrin Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [01:52] Early Start: Leslie became a deputy clerk of court at just 18, making her the youngest courtroom clerk in her district before even graduating high school. [02:15] On-the-Job Training: One minute, she’d be working with a judge or probation officer. The next, she’d be listening to a person in shackles explaining why they’re in court that day. [05:48] An Invaluable Skill: At the clerk’s office, “you have DAs coming at you. The public’s asking to see you. The judge is asking you questions. It taught me how to remain calm.” [08:30] “Briefs Do Not Scare Me”: While working for a defense attorney, Leslie became immersed in detailed research on insurance policies. There, she learned the importance of precise writing, right down to where to place a comma. [11:30] “Am I Limiting Myself?”: In her early 40s, Leslie pursued her business administration and law degree while working full time, often studying until 3 a.m. [15:21] Taking Risks: Working in James Scott Farrin's Triage Department, Leslie once faced down barking dogs to retrieve surveillance footage that would help a client's case. [17:15] Giving Back: As a mentor to young paralegals, Leslie emphasizes the importance of understanding why you're doing tasks, not just following templates, because there are consequences for mistakes. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and partners....

Rosa Antunez Boatwright, an immigrant from Honduras, was excited to attend community college in her new Florida home – until the college rescinded its acceptance because of her immigration status. Fast forward years later. Today, she is a personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin and the incoming chair of NCAJ's Hispanic/Latino Legal Issues Division. In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, Rosa explains how national and local legislation affecting the Hispanic community means that all lawyers need to be “on our toes.” “If we need to get together next week because of something that happened this week, we need to be able to do that and have those open discussions,” she says. Tune in to learn about Rosa’s journey from Honduras, her path from paralegal to lawyer, and her experience as an NCAJ NEXT Leadership Program fellow. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Rosa Antunez Boatwright Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [01:38] Idyllic Childhood: Rosa describes growing up in Honduras' capital surrounded by mountains, with her father owning a candy factory and her mother was a psychologist. [03:06] Hurricane Mitch: In 1998, Hurricane Mitch devastated Rosa’s family's candy factory and forced them to move to the United States. [06:33] “We Can’t Enroll You”: She was accepted to community college, made the cheerleading team, and then came the letter. “Nevermind. We can’t enroll you.” Why? Because of her immigration status. [09:02] The Ad Said “Paralegal”: Her first job was as a medical secretary for a chiropractor. It came in handy when she wanted to pivot to law: a firm sought someone with medical experience to join them as a paralegal. [12:49] Breakthrough Case: Rosa convinced a judge that an unmarried couple was common law married under South Carolina law, securing recovery for the surviving partner and children. [15:04] NEXT Leadership Program: Rosa describes the transformative experience of the NCAJ NEXT program that prepared her for introspective leadership both personally and professionally. [17:26] Leadership Goals: Rosa outlines her plans for multiple roundtables and responsive meetings to help attorneys navigate challenging legislation and government changes affecting Hispanic clients. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan...

“Somebody told me, ‘Hey, if you want to do criminal defense, you really need to join NCAJ.’ And they were absolutely right.” The year was 2008, and Lindsey Granados had just begun practicing law. Fast forward to 2025. She owns Granados Law Group and is a newly elected member of NCAJ’s Board of Governors. In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, Lindsey reflects on her journey to criminal defense law, the early jury verdict that convinced her she was in the right job, and her goals on the NCAJ board. She looks back at the impact of NCAJ’s influential listserv system and contemplates the future of North Carolina’s eCourts system. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Lindsey Granados Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:27] NCAJ Journey: Lindsey explains how she joined NCAJ right after starting practice in 2008 and how the criminal defense law listserv helped her learn the practice. [03:14] Listserv Mentorship: Lindsey describes how NCAJ members would call her within minutes or hours to provide answers and guidance throughout her career. [03:30] Women's Caucus: Lindsey discusses joining the Women's Caucus and attending the women's retreat, highlighting the energy and connections formed. [06:19] eCourts Rollout: Requested by a Wake County judge to help implement eCourts, Lindsey identifies lack of communication and system slowdowns as the greatest challenges. [13:38] Career Switch: Lindsey explains how the 2008 economic downturn led her from wanting to be a prosecutor to criminal defense through court-appointed cases. [16:12 Eight Minutes: In Lindsey’s first jury trial, on a communicating threats case, the jury deliberated for only eight minutes before awarding her a victory. [17:08] Board Goals: Lindsey outlines her hopes to listen to experienced board members and continue NCAJ's legislative efforts for the next decade. [19:06] Professional Impact: Lindsey describes NCAJ as the most defining professional membership of her career and her commitment to mentoring newer lawyers. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities...

Taking the leap from employee to firm owner requires courage, but having the right partner makes all the difference. Jacob Morse and Spencer Fritts discovered their partnership potential through NCAJ's NEXT leadership program, where they bonded as classmates despite barely knowing each other at Campbell Law School. In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, they discuss their journey from fellows to co-founders of Morse Fritts, their Raleigh-based personal injury firm. As leaders in NCAJ's New Lawyers Division, they will attend Convention 2025 later this month, and Jacob describes the value for all members. “It's a no-brainer if you can get there,” he says. Convention 2025 will be held in Charlotte, June 18-20. Learn more and register here. 🎙️ Featured Guests 🎙️ Name: Spencer Fritts Connect: LinkedIn Name: Jacob Morse Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:11] NCAJ Connection: Spencer explains how the NEXT program was pivotal in forming their friendship and eventual business partnership. [03:33] Daily Support Network: Jacob describes how NCAJ members serve as regular resources for referrals, questions, and case collaboration. [04:30] Early NCAJ Experience: Jacob attended NCAJ's Professionalism for New Attorneys CLE before even becoming a member or plaintiff's lawyer. [06:40] Leadership Development: Spencer details how NEXT allowed him to grow into leadership roles, including as chair of the New Lawyers Division and Professional Negligence Section. [08:35] The Partnership Decision: Jacob explains how conversations with other NCAJ members who had started their own firms confirmed their decision to take the leap. [09:39] Member Support: Spencer credits supportive NCAJ members for giving him and Jacob confidence to start their own firm. [15:46] First Settlement Success: Jacob recalls their anxiety over their first case settlement and the confidence boost it provided. [19:03] Convention Value: Spencer explains why attending NCAJ Convention remains a priority despite their busy new firm schedule. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the...

As chair of NCAJ’s political action committee, Jon Moore is committed to expanding NCAJ's political influence through strategic relationships across party lines. In this conversation with host Amber Nimocks, he explains how PAC contributions have been instrumental in recent legislative victories, including major insurance reforms. As Convention 2025 co-chair Jon also cherishes the unique professional camaraderie that sets NCAJ apart from other legal organizations. He urges younger and older attorneys to make connections through the organization. Convention 2025 will be held in Charlotte, June 18-20. Learn more and register here. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Jon Moore Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:00] Pivotal Year: The PAC’s mission is to grow its donor base, Jon says. [05:06] Legislative Wins: NCAJ has secured significant insurance reforms, including increased minimum liability coverage limits and mandatory underinsured motorist coverage. [07:06] Member Engagement: Jon explains why growing the number of PAC contributors beyond heavy donors strengthens NCAJ's legislative voice. [08:53] NCAJ’s Voice: NCAJ's influence means that legislators now proactively seek the organization's input on pending legislation rather than NCAJ playing defense. [13:35] Age Is Only A Number: Sometimes, Jon says, the “older generation” of lawyers “don't always do the best job of reaching out” so the younger generation of leaders shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to them. [17:59] NCAJ’s Value: The organization provides both professional resources and personal connections that Jon believes set it apart from defense-side practice and many other industries. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and partners. Join today!

“What we do is tough, and Convention can be really cathartic,” says Kristen Dewar, co-chair of NCAJ's upcoming Convention 2025 in Charlotte. Speaking with host Amber Nimocks, Kristen previews the event, highlighting the return of the Masters in Criminal Defense program and the location of the Friday Soiree at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. A Charlotte resident, Kristen also shares her journey from Toronto to North Carolina, where she's built a criminal defense career she's dreamed of since age 4. Now finishing her second term as NCAJ’s DEI vice president, Kristen discusses NCAJ's Building Bridges to Excellence Initiative and the new Ambassador Program designed to welcome newcomers to the organization. Convention 2025 will be held in Charlotte, June 18-20. Learn more and register here. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Kristen Dewar Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [01:59] Finding NCAJ: Kristen joined during law school when her criminal justice clinic professor suggested using the listserv for case advice. [02:43] Building Connections: A sparsely attended Women's Caucus event in Charlotte provided quality time with NCAJ leaders, inspiring Kristen to see leadership possibilities for herself. [04:18] Building Bridges Initiative: As DEI vice president, Kristen helped develop this initiative to foster connections and ensure NCAJ's membership reflects diverse experiences and perspectives. [05:35] Ambassador Program: This new program will connect convention first-timers with veteran members, creating a welcoming environment and empowering longtime members. [08:15] Canadian Roots: Kristen shares her journey from Toronto to Charlotte, explaining she's been "running from the snow" and wanted to stay in the same time zone as her family. [09:53] Born Defender: Since age four, Kristen had a strong sense of justice, standing up for classmates accused of classroom infractions and inspired by TV lawyers. [11:47] Practical Experience: A high school co-op program placed Kristen with a criminal defense attorney in Toronto, allowing her to appear in court and continue cases—an experience that confirmed her career path. [13:10] Return of the Masters: Convention 2025 will feature the return of the Masters in Criminal Defense program, focused on DWI defense. [13:33] Back in Charlotte: Another convention highlight this year is its return to Charlotte, which last hosted the event in 2022. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial...

After wrongful conviction, exoneration brings freedom but not healing. Chris Mumma, Executive Director of the NC Center on Actual Innocence, joins host Amber Nimocks to discuss the unique challenges faced by those released after years of wrongful imprisonment. Inspired by Joseph Sledge, who took his own life five years after being exonerated following 37 years in prison, the center is creating the Joseph Sledge Houses of Healing—a first-of-its-kind transitional sanctuary where exonerees can decompress and begin healing with comprehensive support. The project, being built on Second Act Farm in rural Alamance County, aims to address the often-overlooked trauma of wrongful incarceration. Learn more about how you can support the center's new re-entry project at their website at www.nccai.org or at Second Act Farm. You can also follow the center on Facebook. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Chris Mumma Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [01:54] Center Origins: The NC Center on Actual Innocence was incorporated in June 2000, consolidating work that started at UNC and Duke to prevent duplication of efforts. [03:46] Personal Pivot: Chris left a finance career and initially planned to practice corporate law before her clerkship revealed systemic justice issues she wanted to address. [06:35] Successes: The center has achieved 12 complete exonerations, helped six others gain release, and participated in investigating 18 additional exonerations over more than two decades. [08:19] Psychological Wounds: Being wrongfully imprisoned creates a fundamentally different psychological experience than serving time for an actual crime, with the constant question of "why?" eroding mental health. [12:56] Joseph's Story: Joseph Sledge spent 37 years in prison for a double murder he didn't commit. After his exoneration, he struggled to adjust to a changed world, eventually taking his own life after five years of freedom. [15:39] Houses of Healing: In partnership with journalists Mandy Locke and Alex Granados of Second Act Farm, the center is building two small homes—one for exonerees to live in temporarily and another for family reunification and service providers. [21:41] How to Help: You can donate funds, purchase items from an Amazon gift list for the homes, or attend work days and the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony in May. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on

From bartender to high school English teacher to senior claims counsel, Warren Savage’s winding career path brings valuable skills to his role at Lawyers Mutual. He sits down with host Amber Nimocks for a conversation about supporting small and solo practitioners, including lots of NCAJ members. Drawing from his insurance defense background, Warren offers a unique perspective on bridging divides between opposing counsel. He and colleagues from Lawyers Mutual will share insights during NCAJ’s Sidebar Social events at cities around the state this spring and summer. Click here to learn more. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Warren Savage Connect: LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:27] JV Coach to Claims Counsel: Warren jokes about his path from high school English teacher to legal claims counsel, saying he "didn't know what I wanted to be until I was 40." [04:35] Back Behind the Bar: Warren and his wife recently purchased House Creek Beverage Company, bringing his career full circle from his bartending days. [05:30] Teaching Skills Transfer: His background in teaching prepared Warren perfectly for his current role delivering CLEs to attorneys across the state. [07:49] Sidebar Socials: Warren enjoys participating in these events because they give him the opportunity to meet NCAJ members in-person and not in a crisis situation. [08:57] Solo Support Network: NCAJ members often come from small or solo firms without built-in mentorship, making Lawyers Mutual's support especially valuable. [11:02] Insurance Defense Beginnings: Despite initially declaring he'd never become an insurance defense lawyer, Warren's first position proved invaluable to his current work. [13:29] Bridge Builder: Having worked with both plaintiff and defense attorneys, Warren often serves as a peacemaker between opposing counsel. [16:22] Persistent Pitfalls: Despite technological advances, the most common issues remain timeless: statute of limitations problems and managing difficult clients. [19:50] Proactive Networking: Warren highlights the importance of young attorneys reaching out proactively for mentorship, citing Lex-Jordan Ibegbu as an exemplary model. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it...

With February being CLE season at NCAJ, host Amber Nimocks welcomes Lauren Newton, an NCAJ leader who has helped develop popular CLEs, including the auto torts series. Lauren also discusses her involvement in other NCAJ initiatives, such as helping launch its Women’s Caucus. She describes serving as a delegate for the American Association for Justice (AAJ) and – if all that’s not enough – acting as an avid Instagram poster outside of her law practice. Visit the NCAJ’s event calendar to learn about upcoming CLEs. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Lauren Newton Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:25] Amazing CLEs: Lauren reveals the secrets behind the NCAJ’s successful CLEs, including the virtual technology that broadens participation among trial lawyers. [08:12] Liens and Disbursements: For eight or nine years, Lauren has presented at this popular seminar that covers the “necessary evil” that all plaintiffs’ lawyers have to contend with. She’ll do so again this year, on Feb. 21. [08:49] The Women’s Caucus: Lauren recalls how she helped launch this NCAJ group shortly after she had her first child. She served as the chair for two years. [12:18] Secure Leave: The caucus spurred the codification of secured leave, a policy that protects lawyers who need to take off more than the previous standard of three weeks for childbirth or adoption. [15:53]: Women’s Caucus Retreat: It’s gotten bigger and bigger each year. It's different from other events because it transcends one practice area. This year, it will be held on March 13 and 14. [20:19] Find Her on Instagram: Lauren’s Instagram journey began when she decided to document all the “crazy decisions” she made while shepherding DIY projects at home. [28:33] AAJ Delegate: In addition to her work with NCAJ, Lauren is a delegate to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). She describes the group’s work ending forced arbitrations in the employment context. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent...

NCAJ President Kevin Bunn encourages attorneys to stay focused on advocating for vulnerable people and to resist any urge to check out because of frustration with the political climate. Bunn joins podcast host Amber Nimocks for a midterm chat. One of the first in his family to attend college, he reflects on how different his perspective and political beliefs might be but for attending UNC. He reminds listeners that, although people may have different perspectives, it doesn’t mean they can’t find common ground. NCAJ members are often the only ones advocating for clients facing down powerful institutions, and NCAJ has a legacy of fighting for fair laws and a level playing field, he says. “I think that’s what sets us apart.” 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Kevin Bunn | LinkedIn 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [09:31] All Lawmakers the Same? Background and education influence perspective, but that doesn’t mean that someone with a different view is a bad person. [10:54] A Unique Role: All lawyers are sworn to uphold the Constitution regardless of the type of law they practice. [11:45] No Time to Check Out! Focus on your clients and on the people you represent. [14:03] NCAJ Membership on the Rise: It’s critical to find ways for members to come together in person. [15:12] The Anonymous Internet: People who know each other are kinder to each other.The anonymity of the internet tests that. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and partners. Join today!

The NCAJ is losing a longtime member, but North Carolinians are gaining a judge on January 1, 2025. Sean Cole is passionate about service, his two constituents – the public and the Constitution – and the law. Also about having a sense of humor. Sean visits host Amber Nimocks for a retrospective on the various turns his life has taken. Twenty-four years ago, he was invited to interview for a plaintiffs’ firm but needed a friend to dig his car out of a snow drift so he could make the appointment. This year, he received a call asking him to run for the bench at the same time he was mulling where the next road would take him. “I really like wearing robes to work,” he jokes. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Sean Cole, judge-elect for Judicial District 10C of the North Carolina 3rd Superior Court Division. 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [01:51] Interesting Tidbits: NCAJ’s member database has a treasure trove of information about Sean, such as his description of his meeting space: broad, open savannahs and mangrove swamps. [04:39] Encouragement and Inspiration: Sean celebrates the opportunities he enjoyed and relationships he built during his involvement with NCAJ. [08:56] Money: That’s Sean’s answer to a question that voters frequently asked him: What’s the biggest problem facing the judicial system? [14:56] Road to Damascus: Sean stepped away from defense to the plaintiff’s side after realizing that, if he did a good job on defense, someone who was hurt would either get less than they should or perhaps nothing at all. [25:21] Rules, Loopholes, Norms: Borrowing from Jon Stewart on The Daily Show, Sean places the judge’s role in the context of these three concepts in government. [27:54] Access: As a judge, Sean can’t give legal advice, but he can – and plans to – make himself available to the community, for example, at meetings, civic groups, or speaking engagements. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and partners. Join today!

Fresh from profiling Ben Whitley for NCAJ’s flagship publication, Amber Nimocks invites him on the podcast so listeners can hear the story of this winning PI lawyer at Whitley Law Firm and familiar face on WRAL. From watching his father help clients as a child to launching his own career at the firm’s satellite office to honing his marketing skills before TV cameras, Ben reviews his career and highlights one constant: commitment to community. Click here to read Amber’s “Hero Profile” of Ben in Trial Briefs. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Ben Whitley Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram Whitley Law Firm on LinkedIn | Instagram | X | YouTube 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:26] Media Pioneer: Ben’s father, Bob, started advertising on television soon after the US Supreme Court allowed it. As Ben explains, his father’s technique was to approach the public like he was speaking to a jury. [08:32] Community Cares: The Whitley Law Firm highlights a different charity each month as part of its commitment to pro bono service. Learn more about this partnership with WRAL here. [15:35] UIM Stacking: Ben recently played an important role in persuading state legislators to change laws on uninsured motorist stacking and expand coverage limits. [15:51] Force for Change: In addition to being a member of NCAJ for two decades, Ben is actively involved in state politics to “make real changes for lives of North Carolinians.” [19:21] Earning His Wings: Ben grew up watching his father practice law, but before he received his law license, he got a different one: a pilot’s license. [24:51] Operation Airdrop: Ben is a member of this civilian air fleet that delivers supplies to needy communities when a hurricane or major disaster strikes. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or

Ian Mance has worked for almost 20 years on criminal and racial justice policy and litigation in North Carolina. His long-term projects include developing strategies for leveraging a database of law enforcement traffic stops in the state. Ian will offer a hands-on presentation about the database and its application in the courts at NCAJ’s upcoming Criminal Defense CLE. Twenty-five years ago, North Carolina was the first state to pass a law to create the database that logs enforcement patterns at traffic stops. Today, that database has information on 36 million stops. As Ian explains to host Amber Nimocks, the CLE will arm attorneys with strategies for using the data on behalf of clients with racial profiling claims. Click here to learn more and register for the NCAJ’s CLE on December 13, where Ian will present on “The Use of Traffic Stop Database in Litigating Criminal Cases.”  🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Ian Mance Connect: LinkedIn | Emancipate NC | Instagram | Facebook 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:17] What Traffic Stops Show: The state’s database can reveal selective enforcement, commonly known as racial profiling, at traffic stops. Lawyers can access the information online. [03:40] State v. Johnson: This was the first appellate case to consider the traffic stop data in a defense context. Ian will explain the case and its implications at the December 13 CLE. [06:33] Treasure Trove: The traffic stop database contains information including the reason for the stop, the race of the driver and passengers, and anything notable that occurred. [08:13] The Pattern: The database shows that Black drivers are about twice as likely to be stopped and about three to four times as likely to be searched – a pattern that has persisted over the years. [18:26] Proactive Policing: Ian encourages police to use the database before a defense lawyer does: “I’ll say, ‘You can use this website to proactively monitor your officers.’” [21:39] The Greensboro Phenomenon: After a New York Times’ expose on the city’s racialized pattern of making stops for non-moving, non-safety reasons, the city prohibited police from making those types of stops. The result was “unheard of,” Ian says. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking

Artemis Malekpour, a partner at Malekpour & Ball who specializes in strategic jury selection and solutions to case problems, previews the session she will lead at NCAJ’s November 7 CLE. The program will focus on evidence and pretrial motions, and attendees will participate in an interactive exercise on voir dire. In addition to laying out her CLE, Artemis joins host Amber Nimocks to share her insights on the importance of understanding jurors' perspectives and crafting trial themes based on their values. She highlights the need for attorneys to listen actively during voir dire, respect jurors' opinions, and create a connection with them. Learn more about the CLE at ncaj.com/events. 🎙️ Featured Guest 🎙️ Name: Artemis Malekpour at Malekpour & Ball Connect: Email | LinkedIn | Trial Guides 💡 Episode Highlights 💡 [02:06] Jury Selection in North Carolina: Lawyers have more time here than in other states. Artemis suggests using that time to establish rapport, credibility, and connection. [08:57] “Weird Path”: She thought she wanted to go into psychology. Then psychiatry. In grad school, Artemis became fascinated by a “guilty but mentally ill” bill related to a psychiatrist who was sued by UNC. [22:07] Showing Respect: Like all of us, jurors want to feel important, valued, and that they matter. Voir dire is the time to show that, Artemis believes. [25:20] Politics: You don’t want to bring politics into voir dire, but Artemis thinks it’s important to understand how it informs trial. [28:47] No Sitting Back and Watching: Attendees at Artemis’s interactive session during the November 7 CLE will be encouraged to participate as they deconstruct a voir dire. Connect with North Carolina Advocates for Justice ☑️ Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. ☑️ Subscribe to Voices of NCAJ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers. Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and partners.