Kaitlyn Fudge, NEXT Leadership Class of 2023

Kaitlyn Fudge is one of the 21 members of the NCAJ NEXT Leadership Program class of 2023. The program, which graduated its first class in 2022, identifies the state’s emerging trial lawyer leaders.

Lives in: Raleigh

Law degree from: Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law

Works as: Litigation Attorney at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin

Legal Association Involvement: NCBA Pro Bono Committee and chair of its Recognition Subcommittee, NCBA Wellness Committee, AAJ member

Why NCAJ NEXT?

I want to become more involved in NCAJ both to make a positive difference for NCAJ’s mission and to meet more NCAJ members. I hope to become a better trial attorney through this program, especially by becoming more involved with NCAJ and NCAJ lawyers.

Why is the idea of civil justice important to you?

Most of the time, people need a lawyer when something has gone terribly wrong in their lives, including the worst thing they have had to face. Since law school, I have put myself in my client’s shoes and asked, “What kind of lawyer would I want if I needed one?” This has made the hard work it takes to be a lawyer worth it, and this mindset has motivated me to excel. I think that everyone is entitled to civil justice, regardless of who they are or what background they come from. Making the justice system better starts with us as lawyers to be the best we can. Lawyers are helping those who are going through the toughest moments and that is why justice is important.

What’s your vision for the future of NCAJ?

I see NCAJ continuing to expand and become more influential within North Carolina. Through programs like NEXT, I think NCAJ will get younger lawyers involved, which only adds to NCAJ’s ability to shape and impact the North Carolina legal community. I see NCAJ continuing to gain more ability to impact and shape the laws and justice system in the state.

Away from work …

I enjoy spending time with my husband, my friends, and our two dogs (a Saint Bernard-poodle mix and a standard poodle). I also love going home to Oxford, to spend time on my family’s farm, especially bass fishing. The NC Hot Sauce Festival and Contest in Oxford is my favorite event of the year. In my free time, I love doing fitness classes like yoga.