The results are in – the North Carolina Legal Elite class of 2022 is composed of 870 lawyers, each practicing law through various cities across the state.
DataJoe Research, a renowned company based in Colorado, specializing in data collection and verification conducted the research process to produce this year’s class. Using online peer-voting and an internet research process, the company thoroughly checked and confirmed if each winner had a current and active license with the state regulatory board and had no disciplinary infractions.
Included in the list, six of the lawyers listed are from Cumberland and Moore Counties. Five actively practice in Fayetteville and one in Pinehurst.
In Fayetteville, four of the attorneys who were recognized were from the Hutchens Law Firm, LLP. They are currently supervising partners with a variety of concentrations in law. Joseph J. Vonnegut, practicing military law, civil litigation, creditors’ rights and bankruptcy, is the current supervising partner for bankruptcy at the firm. Hilton T. Hutchens, practicing civil litigation, collections, creditors' rights and foreclosure, is the current supervising partner for default servicing litigation. J. Scott Flowers, practicing construction, land, housing and business law, and litigation, is the current supervising partner for litigation. Susan R. Benoit is the supervising partner for the Real Estate and REO (Real Estate-Owned Property) Department.
David T. Courie from Beaver Courie Sternlicht Hearp & Broadfoot, P.A., based in Fayetteville, actively practices law in DWI/DUI, traffic offenses, criminal, sexual, and drug defense, domestic violence, and probation violations.
From Moore County, Stephen F. Later from Robbins Mary & Rich LLP in Pinehurst is currently practicing in the areas of limited liability companies, non-profit corporations and businesses, employments, and secured loans/finance transactions.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
