Biography
Evan advises municipalities, counties, school boards, and other governmental entities on a wide range of local government matters, with a particular focus on land use, zoning, development approvals, and quasi-judicial proceedings. He regularly represents public entities before boards of adjustment, advises on due process requirements, and counsels clients on local government operations, including contracts, public records matters, litigation, development agreements, and construction contracts. Having served as general counsel for a local government, Evan brings a unique perspective to advising public entities on legal and operational challenges. He works closely with elected officials, staff, boards, and community stakeholders to provide practical, solutions-oriented counsel.
Evan also devotes a portion of his practice to education law, advising public school systems on a variety of legal issues, including special education matters arising under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other federal and state laws. He partners with school administrators and boards of education to provide practical guidance that helps districts navigate complex legal requirements while keeping student outcomes at the center.
As a former teacher and public servant, Evan seeks first to understand his clients’ issues, then guide them to a solution. Before pursuing a legal career, Evan worked as a high school history and civics teacher in North Carolina public schools, an experience that reinforced his commitment to public service and informed his understanding of how legal and policy decisions affect communities. This perspective allows him to deliver advice that is not only legally sound but also grounded in the realities facing local governments and public school systems.
Outside of his practice, Evan enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters and is actively involved in his community.
Areas of Focus
+Government
- Routinely advises counties and municipalities on contract drafting, risk identification, negotiation, public bidding, and general local government matters.
- Represents municipal and county planning boards and boards of adjustment on issues ranging from staff appeals and variances to other quasi-judicial land use matters.
- Advises elected officials, planning staff, and local boards on zoning, land use, development approvals, and due process requirements.
- Drafts numerous ordinances and resolutions for local governments, including matters involving public nuisances, abandoned structures, opioid settlement funding, and reimbursements.
- Collaborates on capital projects with local school systems, community colleges, and other public entities, including new construction and infrastructure initiatives.
- Leads strategic planning efforts related to government stewardship, affordable housing initiatives, and public records management and compliance.
+Education
- Advises school districts on compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other federal and state laws.
- Attends Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Section 504 meetings as board counsel.
Credentials
+Education
Campbell University School of Law, J.D., 2017
North Carolina State University, B.A., summa cum laude, 2011
+Professional & Community Activities
North Carolina Association of Municipal Attorneys, Member
North Carolina Association of County Attorneys, Member
North Carolina Association of Police and Sheriff’s Attorneys, Member
North Carolina Bar Association, Council Member, Education Section (2022-2025)
+Notable Accomplishments
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® “Ones to Watch” (Government Relations Practice) 2026-2027
+Speaking & Writing
Code Enforcement Basics, 2026 NCBA Zoning, Planning & Land Use Section CLE
