Denise Smith Cline

Larry L. Coats is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Patent and Patent Law. Larry L., who practices law in Cary, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2019. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Larry L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

R. Sterling Perkinson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law. R. Sterling, who practices law in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which R. Sterling is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

“Charlie was the ultimate service provider. He is vastly experienced and had a great understanding of our issues. He was the best to deal with in every way.” – Client quote in Chambers USA Charlie Mercer focuses his practice on state and local tax controversies (SALT), including property tax, sales and use tax, and corporate and individual income tax. Charlie has extensive experience representing taxpayers in real property and business personal property tax appeals across No...

Deborah L. Hildebran-Bachofen has been practicing with Manning Fulton since 1988. Debbie has a broad range of experience with closely-held corporations, including corporate mergers, acquisition and structuring issues, planning and tax accounting issues, private debt placement, and tax planning. Debbie becomes an important part of the company’s outside management team, advising business owners on day-to-day operations, drafting and negotiating contracts, and advising on financial matters...

Lynn Burleson is a native of Albemarle, North Carolina. He was admitted to the practice of law in North Carolina after receiving his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Public Administration degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and his Juris Doctor degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law. Before joining Tharrington Smith, Mr. Burleson served as a district court judge and was a partner in the law firm of Kilpatrick Stockton. He has served as an adjunct professo...

Patrick M. Meacham is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Health Care, Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants and Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants. Patrick M., who practices law in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Patrick M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Franklin Drake is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law. Franklin, who practices law in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2016. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Franklin is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Amy Fitzhugh is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Professional Malpractice Law - Defendants. Amy, who practices law in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2027. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Amy is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Brian M. Ricci is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs and Workers' Compensation Law - Claimants. Brian M., who practices law in Greenville, North Carolina, has been recognized since 2014. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Brian M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Jonathan Lambert-Melton is a Board Certified Specialist in Family Law and Certified Family Financial Mediator. His practice is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate some of life’s most significant transitions. Over the course of his career, he has represented clients in complex divorce, child custody, equitable distribution, alimony, and family law matters throughout North Carolina, including issues related to same-sex and LGBTQ couples and families. Jonathan is also a ...