Voices of NCAJ – Détails, épisodes et analyse

For North Carolina PI lawyers, the auto insurance landscape will change dramatically on July 1, 2025. Christopher Nichols, NCAJ’s Governmental Affairs Consultant, lays out the new rules of the road with host Amber Nimocks.

Relying on his deep understanding of recent changes to the law, including  Senate Bill 319, which was passed this summer, Chris describes how the law will affect personal injury lawyers and their clients. He offers a look into what’s in store come next July, starting with new minimum limits on a rolling basis.

Name: Christopher Nichols | LinkedIn | Email

Connect: Nichols Law Firm | Facebook | Phone 

[03:49] Senate Bill 319: This bill represents technical corrections to SB 452, which would change minimum limits in liability insurance in North Carolina starting in January 2025. Plaintiffs’ personal injury lawyers were “hyped and excited” about 452. Then, things started to happen…

[06:04 ] “Stack and Compare”: For nearly three decades, plaintiffs’ lawyers would “stack and compare” all possible uninsured motorist policies with the liability policy to determine the offset. SB 319 codified that practice, clearing up confusion that followed the N.C. Supreme Court decision in Farm Bureau v. Hebert this spring.  

[08:21 ] The Frankenstein Statute: SB 319’s drafters collaborated with the insurance industry to update the definition of underinsurance, dubbed the “Frankenstein Statute” because it’s a creation built by many stakeholders who have changed text in one document over time.

[09:53] July 2025: The corrections reflected in SB 319 go into effect, including this one: Every driver will have $100,000 in coverage, assuming somebody else has liability insurance.

[19:22] The Impact of Raising the Minimum: Hint: It doesn’t mean more car accidents. It just means more coverage.

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Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers.

Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal...

As a successful trial attorney, Raleigh native and solo practitioner Lex-Jordan Ibegbu credits the NCAJ NEXT Leadership program with helping him build a community of colleagues and mentors.

With Voices of NCAJ host Amber Nimocks, Lex-Jordan “drops some gems” of inspiration for the next class of NEXT fellows. Collaborating with NCAJ, his goal is to positively affect the citizens of North Carolina “because that's what it's all about at the end of the day.” Tune in to hear how he does that through his determination, connection with NCAJ, and even his experience as a musician. 

NCAJ is accepting applications for the NEXT class of 2025 until September 16. Click here to learn more and apply.

Name: Lex-Jordan Ibegbu

Connect: Ibegbu Law, PLLC | Email | X | Instagram | Facebook

[6:33] Growing Up in Southeast Raleigh: He was both shielded from and exposed to the neighborhood’s ruggedness, a unique experience that still impacts him today in all arenas of his life.

[12:43] Music to the Jury’s Ears: His background as a recording artist with thousands of songs to his credit helps him strategically use inflection, tones, and pauses to make his voice heard in the courtroom.  

[13:26] Hanging Out His Shingle: One of the few NEXT fellows to build a solo practice, Lex-Jordan counts upon his entrepreneurial spirit to guide his career.

[16:30] One Door Closes, Another Opens: After losing one job, he was hired by another firm that embraced his talents. And that role convinced him that he could eventually start his own practice, which he did.

[24:56] How NEXT Helps: If being an attorney is isolating at times, the NEXT program introduces its fellows to colleagues and mentors who support and inspire.

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Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers.

Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our tremendous community of sponsors and...

In this episode of Voices of NCAJ, host Amber Nimocks welcomes three guests, NCAJ Executive Director Shannon Leskin, NCAJ Lobbyist Philip Isley and NCAJ Government Affairs Consultant Chris Nichols, to discuss how they helped NCAJ achieve some key legislative goals during the 2023 Long Session of the North Carolina General Assembly. 

NCAJ is dedicated to supporting and furthering the rights of plaintiffs’ attorneys and criminal defense attorneys and their clients. One way we do this is through our strategic lobbying efforts and government affairs work.

Tune in to learn more about NCAJ, the organization’s recent endeavors and accomplishments. 

Name: Shannon Leskin

Connect: NCAJ

Name: Philip Isley

Connect: Blanchard, Miller, Lewis & Isley, P.A. | LinkedIn

Name: Chris Nichols

Connect: Nichols Law Firm | LinkedIn

[01:53] Highlights of the 2023 Legislative Session for NCAJ: NCAJ succeeded in getting the minimum liability insurance limits raised for the first time in more than two decades. NCAJ also did a lot of work to protect established laws by advising legislators against changing laws in ways that would negatively affect NCAJ members and their clients. 

[04:37] The Difference Between Playing Offense and Defense: Playing offense refers to being in charge of trying to get something done, such as getting rid of the set-off for the UIM insurance. Playing defense refers to fighting “changing the status quo” that detrimentally affects NCAJ clients.

[10:48] Advocacy Strategic Plan: The Advocacy Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Governors of NCAJ in January of 2021 and has made a difference in NCAJ’s lobbying efforts this year in many ways.

[14:37] Senate Bill 452: This was one of the most important pieces of legislation that NCAJ helped through this year. Chris explains what this law does and how it helps NCAJ members and all drivers in the state of North Carolina. 

[23:28] Relationships Are the Key to the Game: To be successful in lobbying, it’s important to build strong relationships with legislators, rather than viewing them as opponents. 

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The pandemic really took a toll on the criminal defense practice. Not being in the courtroom as often, not being in contact with other attorneys, not sharing information and skills – the learning gap has grown for both newer criminal defense attorneys as well as experienced practitioners. It’s time to fix that by attending the “Criminal Defense: Back to Basics and Beyond” CLE on Dec. 8 at NCAJ headquarters in Raleigh. Register at ncaj.com/events. 

In this episode of Voices of NCAJ, host Amber Nimocks speaks with program co-chair Julie Boyer. Julie is a highly skilled trial lawyer with her own firm based in Winston-Salem who handles first degree murder and other violent crime cases. She is also an N.C. State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Law Juvenile Delinquency.

Boyer and her program co-chair Chris Heaney have put together a jam-packed day of learning for criminal defense practitioners that covers everything from pretrial release to post-conviction basics. The lineup of CLE speakers includes:

• Julie Boyer on motions
• Elana Fogel on the importance of pretrial release and how to get it
• Sarah Rackley Olsen on finding experts
• Amanda Zimmer on appellate updates
• Chris Heaney on keeping the record clear and how not to get IAC’d
• Christon Halkiotis on jury voir dire
• Burcu Hensley on getting your evidence and experts admitted
• Cynthia Everson on sentencing
• Elizabeth Hopkins Thomas on post-conviction basics, 
• Will Graebe on ethics

This comprehensive CLE is a must-attend. To register for the CLE go to ncaj.com/events. Attend in-person or virtually.

Name: Julie Boyer 

Connect: Julie Boyer, Attorney at Law | Facebook | LinkedIn

[02:45] Not Just for New Attorneys: The practice of law over the past 3+ years has been anything but normal. The “Criminal Defense: Back to Basics and Beyond” CLE will feature a panel of speakers and promises to provide “massive” amounts of information that is useful to both new and experienced attorneys alike. 

[05:54] An Agenda You Won’t Want to Miss: This power packed agenda will feature speakers with a wealth of knowledge on topics such as: pretrial release, finding experts, how not to get IAC’d, voir dire, getting your evidence and experts admitted, and more!  

[15:35] Calm in the Midst of Chaos: Criminal defense attorneys face constant chaos and emergencies. Substance abuse in the profession is a problem due to trauma witnessed everyday. The CLE will feature an ethics hour on the topic of “Calm in the Midst of Chaos-Resilience Training”.

[16:46] Importance of Motions from Day 1: Motions can be used in a variety of ways from the very beginning to help your client. Julie will present a section on motions and will share a number of examples in her presentation materials.

[18:03] Getting to Know Julie Boyer: Julie’s been practicing for 19 years. She’s had her own law...

Any lawyer trying cases in front of a jury today needs to attend the NCAJ Caps on Damages 2023 CLE on Nov. 3 at NCAJ headquarters in Raleigh. Register at ncaj.com/events. In addition to focusing on the caps, it’s about how to practice in the post-COVID era and how to present damages to a jury. 

In this episode of Voices of NCAJ, host Amber Nimocks speaks with Kristen Beightol, a founding partner at Edwards Beightol, LLC, and co-chair of the program. The all-star lineup of speakers includes Burton Craige speaking on the history of the caps, Jon Moore on busting the caps, Adam Malone on how Georgia lawyers practiced around the caps and had them declared unconstitutional, mediator Rene Trehy, Bailey Melvin, and a panel including Retired N.C. Supreme Court Justice Robin Hudson, Phyllis Lile-King and Lauren Newton. 

The focus of the CLE is not only on caps but also on presenting damages effectively in court, especially in a world where remote practices have become prevalent. Kristen emphasizes that there are ways to navigate around caps, especially by proving gross negligence or reckless disregard. 

Don’t miss the pre-CLE Thursday Evening Networking Event with the Nursing Home Litigation Section from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Spirits Pub, 701 E. Chatham in Cary.

To register for the CLE go to ncaj.com/events. Attend in-person or virtually.

Name: Kristen Beightol | LinkedIn

Connect: Edwards Beightol, LLC | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

[01:07] Getting to know Kristen Beightol: Kristen is a founding partner of Edwards Beightol, LLC. She has spent her career facing off against big corporations, hospitals, and insurance companies on behalf of her injured clients. She has obtained tens of millions of dollars for clients who have suffered serious injury or death. Kristen is also a leader in the profession and holds positions on a number of boards and committees. 

[01:54] Not Just for Medical Malpractice Lawyers: Kristen encourages anyone who practices personal injury litigation to attend this CLE. The CLE features a “brain trust” of speakers. While focused on the cap on damages, the CLE is really a conversation on how to try cases in 2023 and beyond.

[03:11] Power-Packed Agenda: From the history of caps, to learning how a Georgia attorney litigated a case that declared the caps unconstitutional in Georgia, to a panel on how to best present damages at trial, and more, this CLE is a must-attend for personal injury practitioners.

[08:00] Developing Damages from the Beginning to the End of the Case: Kristen previews her presentation with Chaplin and Associates court reporting, where she will discuss the ins-and-outs of developing damages, with a particular focus on the remote aspect of practicing nowadays.

[11:52]...

The skills and knowledge paralegals will bring back after attending the NCAJ Fall Conference for Paralegals 2023 are well worth the day away from the office. 

In this episode, Amber Nimocks interviews Megan Jankowski, a paralegal at Henson Fuerst, about the upcoming Fall Conference for Paralegals 2023 which takes place on October 13, 2023 at the NCAJ headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference will focus on topics such as the eCourt system, medical record requests, ethics, and more, with a goal of providing paralegals with valuable knowledge and networking opportunities to enhance their skills and careers. Megan highlights the importance of in-person events for networking and community building among NCAJ members. 

Don’t miss out! To register for the conference go to ncaj.com/events. Attend in-person or virtually.

Name: Megan Jankowski

Connect: Henson Fuerst

[02:42] eCourts Will be the Focus of the Fall Conference for Paralegals:  Due to overwhelming interest in eCourts, the conference will focus on the eCourt system, with speakers discussing tips for paralegals and even providing a step-by-step guide for how to file. 

[04:36] eCourts is a Learning Process for Paralegals at the Moment: Once paralegals learn to navigate the eCourt system, it will make work a lot easier.  The key is to go through the learning process. 

[06:29] Ethics Matter for Paralegals Too: One of the speakers at the Fall Conference for Paralegals will focus on ethics for paralegals.  It is important to be mindful of behaving ethically at both the office and in daily life.

[08:55] Virtual Attendance at the Conference is an Option, but There’s Additional Value to Attending In-Person: In-person meetings foster connection, networking, and program engagement. Attending events is encouraged to enhance community cohesion.

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Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers.

Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect people, prevent injustice and promote fairness. Membership affords many benefits and we’re proud to offer discounts and opportunities thanks to our...

“While things have moved slowly in the past, I strongly believe that since the court entered this leadership order…we're going to see things happen and move much, much quicker.”

Mona Lisa Wallace, co-lead counsel for the Camp Lejeune Justice Act litigation team, joins Voices of NCAJ host Amber Nimocks to offer updates on the litigation and a preview of NCAJ’s upcoming CLE. A hundred thousand claims have already been filed under the year-old act, which aims to bring justice to veterans and civilians poisoned or killed by the Marine Base's contaminated water supply between 1953 and 1987.

The founder of Wallace & Graham, P.A., Mona Lisa discusses the future of the litigation, the concerns of attorneys handling claims, the public outreach resources that will be available for lawyers as the litigation process unfolds and the need for collaboration among lawyers handling the cases.

Don’t miss out! On Sept. 27, 2023 Mona Lisa and several other leaders of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act litigation will present a CLE providing updates on the status of the claims process. Visit ncaj.com/events to register!

Name: Mona Lisa Wallace

Connect:  Wallace & Graham, P.A. 

[01:52] Camp Lejeune Justice Act Litigation–The 30,000-Foot View: Mona Lisa provides an overview of the Camp Lejeune litigation after the passing of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

[04:46] Assembling the Litigation Team: As one of six co-lead counsels, Mona Lisa discusses the role of the leadership team.

[07:10] Unchartered Territory: Typically in big cases, liability is at issue, but Mona Lisa explains how this litigation is unique. 

[13:05] Latent Diseases, Justice Delayed: There are challenges with the Camp Lejeune litigation because many plaintiffs are now deceased or in their 60s and older.

[17:28] Words of Wisdom for Fellow Lawyers: Mona Lisa provides practical tips for lawyers new to cases like the Camp Lejeune litigation.

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Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers.

Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal...

Michael Bertics - longtime NCAJ member, partner at Lennon, Camak and Bertics, PLLC, and board certified specialist in worker’s compensation law - joins podcast host Amber Nimocks for a discussion of the upcoming “Quirky Issues in Workers’ Comp” CLE. 

Michael’s presentation this year, “Declawing the Labor Market Survey: Declawing Cats Is Inhumane. Declawing Vocational Experts is Good Lawyering, so Let’s Sharpen Your Voc Expert Declawing Tools!” is a hot topic in workers’ comp. Michael stresses that speaking the language of vocational experts is one key to success in this area.

Name: Michael Bertics

Connect:  Lennon, Camak, & Bertics, PLLC | LinkedIn

[01:40] Quirky Issues of Workers’ Comp CLE: Michael discusses the upcoming NCAJ CLE and how the CLE came to be.

[05:21] Vocational Expert Usage in Extended Benefits Claims Surges: A hot new topic in workers’ comp, Michael discusses the rise of vocational expert usage in extended benefits claims and the need for attorneys to be knowledgeable on the topic.

[09:24] The Language of Vocational Experts: Michael discusses the importance of knowing the language of vocational experts and resources that can be used to learn the language.

[12:24] CLE Agenda: Michael discusses the various topics and presentations that will be a part of the NCAJ CLE in September.

[14:40] Goals of the CLE: Michael speaks to how this CLE can be enjoyed by all: whether it is a young attorney just beginning in the field of Workers’ Comp or an experienced attorney looking for new information.

[15:31] The Importance of NCAJ CLEs: Amber and Michael both express the importance of CLEs and CLEs specific to the NCAJ.

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Voices of NCAJ features members of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice talking about what it means to be a trial lawyer, what it takes to be great at the practice of law and how being a part of NCAJ enriches their lives and their careers.

Members of NCAJ belong to a...

“I think you can fight very hard and still get along.”

In this NCAJ Legends interview, recorded during the NCAJ Convention 2022 as part of our 60th anniversary celebration, host Anna Kalarites speaks with Don Beskind about his illustrious career as a trial lawyer, educator, and mediator in North Carolina. Don is a professor at Duke University School of Law and Shareholder at Donald H. Beskind, P.A..

A longtime member and supporter of NCAJ, Don discusses the changes he’s seen in the legal field, advice for young lawyers, and sharing the profession with his daughter. Finally, Don reminds practitioners that it’s not necessary to be adversarial all the time; collegiality is often much more effective!

Name: Don Beskind

Connect:  Duke Law School | LinkedIn 

[6:18] Practicing with Legends: Don recounts some of his favorite memories with legends of NCAJ.

[9:18] NCAJ Grows Up: Over the course of his career, Don has been delighted to see the growing diversity within NCAJ and the improvement of educational offerings.

[10:39] A Passion for Legal Education: Now a full-time professor at Duke Law School, Don reflects on how he got his start as a legal educator.

[13:33] Moving into Mediation: Don discusses his long-time work as a mediator in North Carolina and notes how much the legal field has changed since mediation has become the norm.

[18:22] Like Father, Like Daughter: Anna and Don express their delight at how many members of NCAJ have daughters following in their footsteps as trial lawyers.

[20:56] Advice for Young Lawyers: Don credits the ability to get along with other people as an essential part of effective representation.

[23:52] What NCAJ Means to Me: Don reflects on how instrumental NCAJ has been in his career, from providing educational opportunities to facilitating meaningful relationships and support systems.

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Voices of NCAJ features intimate and inspiring conversations with organization members in celebration of its 60th anniversary.

Members of NCAJ belong to a nonprofit, nonpartisan association of legal professionals dedicated to empowering a strong community of trial lawyers to protect...

“Don't let anybody kid you. In the practice of law, luck has a lot to do with it.”

In this NCAJ Legends interview, recorded during the NCAJ Convention 2022 as part of our 60th anniversary celebration, host Philip Miller engages David Kirby in a candid discussion. David is a Founding Partner at Edwards Kirby, LLP who is consistently recognized as one of the most outstanding and accomplished trial lawyers in the United States. 

David reflects on his legal career, highlighting the role of luck and learning from fellow attorneys. He shares trial anecdotes where fortunate events and insights from fellow NCAJ colleagues played a significant role in his success.

David reveals how he got involved with NCAJ, shares valuable lessons he's learned from difficult cases, and talks about the importance of understanding the community to become a better trial lawyer. And as David reminds us, “no matter what anybody tells you, we all stand on the shoulders of those that came before us.”

Name: David Kirby

Connect: Edwards Kirby, LLP 

[01:57] An Unexpected Invitation: David recalls when two highly skilled trial attorneys–leaders in the trial bar–from the North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers showed up at his office. It wasn't just a surprise, it marked the beginning of an influential journey.

[06:07] Reflecting on His First Million Dollar Verdict: David reflects on his case in the late 80’s/early 90’s, including the challenges he faced and the valuable lessons he learned. 

[12:48] Invaluable Role of Continuous Learning: David recalls reaching out to other trial lawyers and getting not only advice but also absorbing their experience, which he credits for honing his skills and imparting crucial wisdom.

[14:11] The Impossible, Luckiest Case: David reflects on the impactful role that luck has played in his successful career and then he gives an example of a multi-million dollar case verdict that he “luckily” won.

[17:35] Paying Tribute to NCAJ: David credits his career success to the organization and the people who are a part of it. He encourages young lawyers to join and participate in its leadership and seminars, and to talk to fellow members.

[20:29] Advice to Young Lawyers: David encourages young lawyers to think creatively, be willing to experiment, and emphasizes the importance of being involved in the community in order to be a better trial lawyer.

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