The North Carolina State Bar bestowed the esteemed John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award to Sam Johnson on January 14, 2026. This recognition is one of the Bar’s most notable honors, given to those who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and contributions to the legal profession and the public.
For over 50 years, Sam Johnson has been a recognized leader in economic development in Eastern North Carolina. He leverages deep experience in corporate and real estate law to guide clients through complex transactions and strategic expansions. Sam is devoted to bringing new organizations into the State, negotiating incentive agreements, capital investment which have lasting economic benefits to local communities. Whether structuring mergers and acquisitions, securing financing, or navigating incentive packages, Sam’s counsel empowers clients to thrive long-term.
Johnson is a devoted member of the Rocky Mount community and was honored with the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce’s Distinguished Citizen Award in 2006 and the Boy Scouts of America Tar River District’s Distinguished Citizen Award in 2008. He is listed in The Best Lawyers of America and has earned numerous accolades for his exceptional legal practice, notably a North Carolina Bar Association 2015 Citizen Lawyer Award and designation as the North Carolina 2025 Lawyer of the Year for Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law from The Best Lawyers of America.
“Throughout his career, Sam has combined legal acumen with an unwavering commitment to strengthening communities across North Carolina,” said Managing Partner Dan Cahill. “This well-deserved award is a fitting recognition for Sam, whose integrity, generosity, and professionalism have inspired everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him.”
Johnson was recognized on January 14, 2026, at the Rocky Mount Mills River Overlook.
The John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award recognizes North Carolina attorneys who have demonstrated outstanding service through their contributions to the legal profession, the administration of justice, and the public good.
For more information about the award, visit https://www.ncbar.gov.
