Special Counsel

For 70 years, our firm has been a trusted legal partner throughout North and South Carolina— delivering strategic defense, practical counsel, and results that matter. Across our five offices, we combine knowledge and experience with the resources and insight to manage complex claims and litigation efficiently.

We believe the strongest defense is built on solid relationships and client engagement. Our attorneys are more than counsel. We stand beside clients at every stage of a dispute by offering clear guidance, focused strategy, and relentless advocacy. Clients trust us to protect their interests and show up when it matters most.

What sets us apart is our commitment to true partnership. We invest deeply in understanding each client’s unique perspective, challenges they are facing, and their priorities, ensuring our counsel is practical and aligned with your business goals.

We blend a legacy of steady, dependable advocacy with a collaborative multi-generational approach — where experience meets innovation and grit meets adaptability. This balance allows us to navigate complex claims with precision that enhances efficiency and outcomes.

Our five offices across the Carolinas give us unmatched perspective. We understand the nuances of state and regional regulations and court practices, enabling us to craft defense strategies grounded in real-world environments.

Job Description

Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo LLP is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Special Counsel attorney to join our growing Civil Litigation practice in Raleigh, North Carolina. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned litigator to step into an established practice and play a key role in servicing a sophisticated client base while contributing to the continued growth of the firm.

The ideal candidate will be a North Carolina-licensed attorney with at least five years of civil litigation experience , preferably in the defense of complex civil claims. Candidates should possess a strong background managing cases through all phases of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, depositions, mediations, arbitrations, and trial.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Construction Litigation
• Products Liability
• Professional Liability
• Commercial Litigation

The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience independently managing a litigation caseload, developing case strategy, advocating on behalf of clients, and successfully handling matters through trial and arbitration. Strong analytical, writing, communication, and client relationship skills are essential.

Hedrick Gardner offers a collaborative and collegial work environment, sophisticated litigation matters, and the opportunity to grow your practice alongside experienced trial attorneys and industry leaders.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and active license to practice law in North Carolina.
• Minimum of five (5) years of civil litigation experience , with a strong preference for candidates who have substantial experience handling complex defense matters.
• Demonstrated experience defending civil litigation claims through all phases of litigation, including case evaluation, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, and trial.
• Significant experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:
  • Construction Litigation
  • Products Liability
  • Professional Liability
  • Premises Liability
  • Commercial Litigation
• Proven ability to independently manage a caseload, develop litigation strategy, and deliver high-quality legal representation from inception through resolution.
• Strong courtroom and advocacy skills, with demonstrated experience handling hearings, arbitrations, and trial proceedings.
• Exceptional legal research, writing, and analytical abilities, including drafting complex motions, briefs, and case evaluations.
• Excellent communication and client relationship management skills, with the ability to provide practical, business-focused legal advice.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment while also managing matters independently and efficiently.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering outstanding client service.

Preferred Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a seasoned civil litigator who thrives in a fast‑paced practice, possesses sound judgment and strategic thinking skills, and has a proven record of successfully defending clients in complex litigation matters. This attorney should be comfortable taking ownership of cases, serving as a primary client contact, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the firm’s litigation practice.

Additional Information

• Office Setting
• Remote work capabilities provided as needed
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance
• Medical
• Vision
• Life
• Short-term Disability
• Long-term Disability
• HRA
• FSA
• 401K
• Pet Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• 3 weeks of PTO

Benefit Conditions:

• Waiting period may apply
• Only full-time employees eligible

Ability to commute/relocate:

Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work.

Hedrick Gardner is committed to the equal employment opportunity of all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law.