News & Notices

A message from State Bar Executive Director about events that will affect the North Carolina Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts (NC IOLTA) program for 2026.

Please be aware of a fraudulent email currently circulating with the subject line “Action Required – NC BAR Code of Ethics Notice.”

Katherine Frye, a Raleigh family law attorney, has been sworn in as president of the North Carolina State Bar on October 30, 2025.

Mary March Exum, who was disbarred for client fund mismanagement and client communication violations, intends to apply for reinstatement to the North Carolina State Bar.

In recent months, the North Carolina State Bar's Client Security Fund has received numerous claims for reimbursement from clients of disbarred attorney Jonathan W. Washburn.

Vasiliki (Celia) Pistolis was presented with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award on October 7, 2025, in Chapel Hill, NC during Legal Aid's Statewide Summit. The award was presented by former North Carolina State Bar Executive Director Alice Mine and former State Bar President John Silverstein. Ashley Campbell, CEO of Legal Aid of North Carolina, also participated in the presentation.

Matthew Ragaller of South Carolina intends to file a petition for reinstatement before the Disciplinary Hearing Commission.

Donald R. Vaughan was presented with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award on September 18, 2025, at Starmount Forest Country Club in Greensboro, North Carolina.

John P. “Jack” O’Hale was presented with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award on September 18, 2025 at a ceremony at the State Bar Building in Raleigh, North Carolina. State Bar President Matthew W. Smith presented the award.