Q&A With New Member Arista Sibrey

Ari Sibrey’s father, James Sibrey, inspired her to pursue a law degree with his own career as a family law attorney in her hometown of Gainesville, Florida.

“He passed away right before I started law school,” she said. “I practice today knowing he would be proud of me and the work I am doing.”

Sibrey earned her Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law in 2016 and now focuses her practice on Social Security Disability, with plans to expand that focus to include veterans’ disability. She chose her practice area when she saw a posting for a position at her firm and decided to apply.

“I had never really thought of practicing Social Security Disability prior to applying,” she said. “I am so grateful I did. I went into the practice of law wanting to help people in any way I could, whether it’s navigating them through the legal process or providing them with sound legal advice. This field allows me to do that and so much more. I truly enjoy helping my clients as they go through the process of applying and being approved for their disability benefits.”

Sibrey lives in Raleigh with her 2-year-old son, James, and her boyfriend, Grover Faulk. Below, she answers our profile questions.

What made you want to settle in North Carolina to begin your legal career?

I moved up to North Carolina to attend law school. I fell in love with the state, so I decided to settle down and begin my career here.

What have you learned so far about the practice of law that you would pass on as advice to a lawyer who just passed the bar this year?

Get a mentor or two. In any field you practice, there will be lots to learn, discover and experience. Fortunately, most practicing attorneys have learned, discovered or experienced it already and are willing to share their experience with you. Also, always be willing to listen and learn from your mistakes. No one expects perfection, but hard work and effort goes a long way, with both your colleagues and clients.

What prompted you to join NCAJ?

I really admire the mission of NCAJ and hope that I am able to contribute my knowledge and skills one day in the future.

Is there a case so far that stands out as particularly memorable, one that made you feel proud to practice law?

Not a case, but this past year I volunteered for the 4ALL event through the North Carolina Bar Association. I signed up to be a Social Security Disability floater. I really enjoyed answering callers’ questions about their Social Security issues. I felt proud that I could lend a hand and bring my knowledge to such a great event.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, binge-watching Law and Order and traveling. Describe the perfect day off. A perfect day off would be shutting off my phone and email, and taking a day trip to the beach. The day would involve eating lunch near the ocean, then curling up with a good book on the beach.