Manning Fulton attorneys Steve Byrd and Sandra Clark have again been recognized as “Legal Specialists” by the North Carolina State Bar Association’s Board of Legal Specialization. This is a significant achievement, with Sandra Clark celebrating 25 years of recognition and Steve Byrd reaching 30 years through the certification program. Both attorneys are certified in the designated practice area of Estate Planning and Probate Law.
Notably, Debbie Hildebran-Bachofen has also been recognized by the Board of Legal Specialization for Estate Planning and Probate Law and will reach her 30 year milestone achievement in 2026.
Licensed Specialists must complete twice the required number of CLE hours as the general requirement applicable to lawyers (12 hours/yr), with the Specialty requirement being a minimum CLE requirement of 120 hours in each 5 year period with a renewal application then due to maintain the specialty.
The requirements vary from one specialty area to the next, the minimum standards for certification as a board certified specialist include the following:
(1) the applicant must be licensed in a jurisdiction of the United States for at least five years immediately preceding his or her application and must be licensed in North Carolina for at least three years immediately preceding his or her application. The applicant must also be in good standing to practice law in North Carolina and the applicant’s disciplinary record with the courts, the North Carolina State Bar, and any other government licensing agency must support qualification in the specialty;
(2) the applicant must be substantially involved in the practice area, usually for a minimum of five years;
(3) the applicant must take a certain number of continuing legal education credits in the specialty area during the three years prior to application;
(4) the applicant must make a satisfactory showing of qualification in the specialty through peer review;
(5) the applicant must achieve a satisfactory score on a written examination in the practice area.
To learn more about certification standards visit https://www.nclawspecialists.gov/
Our Estate Planning Attorneys
Manning Fulton provides expert legal guidance in tax, wealth preservation, and estate planning and administration. Our team of experienced attorneys help clients protect their assets, assess tax strategy, and ensure their wishes are carried out for future generations. From business owners to individuals, Manning Fulton offers tailored solutions to complex estate planning challenges. Commitment to client care and strong advocacy make our attorneys trusted advisors for safeguarding your legacy. Our estate attorneys have been recognized in Best Lawyers in America, NC Super Lawyers as well as many other reputable publications and remain members of the American College of Trust & Estate Counsel (ACTEC) and the Wake County Estate Planning Council.
For more information about Manning Fulton’s Estate Planning and Administration practice, please click here.
About Manning Fulton
Manning Fulton was founded in 1955 by Howard Manning and Charles Fulton, and is one of the longest-lasting law partnerships in North Carolina. In its nearly seven decades faithfully serving the Triangle and all of North Carolina, Manning Fulton has grown with its clients and this remarkable state. Today, more than 40 attorneys, averaging more than 20 years’ experience in their respective fields, provide the full suite of legal services to businesses and individuals. The firm’s attorneys are uniquely committed to first-rate, accessible, no-nonsense expertise and the development of a lasting relationship with every client. Put simply, we focus on what matters.
