Civil Rights Section

Join the Civil Rights Section – Advocacy That Makes a Difference

As the fastest-growing Sections of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ), the Civil Rights Section is united by a shared commitment: to advocate for individuals whose rights have been violated by government officials, entities receiving government funding, and private individuals.

Our nearly 100 members are highly skilled litigators, adept at navigating the complexities of civil rights law in both state and federal courts. We provide critical case support, including moot court exercises and amicus assistance from experienced practitioners to help sharpen your arguments and strengthen your impact.

We also foster a vibrant, collaborative community by actively sharing our experiences and insights through our Section-specific listserv, roundtable discussions, and continuing legal education (CLE) events.

Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or expanding into civil rights litigation, this Section offers the resources, support, and network you need to make a difference.

Join us—and be part of the fight for justice.

Executive Committee Leadership | 2025-2026
Chair
Paul Smith | Patterson Harkavy LLP
Vice Chair
Nichad Davis | Law Offices of James Scott Farrin
Secretary 
Abe Rubert-Schewel | Tin Fulton Walker & Owen
Immediate Past Chair
Cate Edwards | Edwards Beightol
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Co-Chair
Darlene Harris | Power in Protection, PLLC
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Co-Chair
Sonya Pfeiffer | Pfeiffer Rudolf
Education Co-Chair
Elizabeth Haddix | American Oversight
Education Co-Chair
Zack Kaplan | Ballew Puryear
Legal Affairs Chair
Chris Brook | Patterson Harkavy LLP
Legal Affairs Chair
Katie Clary | Rawls, Scheer, Clary & Mingo
Legislative Chair
Zack Ezor | Tin Fulton Walker & Owen, PLLC
Membership Co-Chair
Amanda Mingo | Rawls, Scheer, Clary & Mingo
Membership Co-Chair
Chris Olson | Olson Law, PLLC

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