J. Michelle Sawyer

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

From a young age, my fascination with the law ignited a lifelong journey of dedication and learning, culminating in my role as an attorney committed to exceptional service. My approach to law is deeply rooted in empathy, compassion, and understanding, ensuring that each case I handle is met with a personalized touch. I pride myself on my ability to bring a unique perspective and a diverse skill set to every situation, recognizing the distinct nature of each case and the individual needs of every client.

Building strong connections is at the heart of my practice. I firmly believe in the power of communication, collaboration, and lasting relationships to achieve the best outcomes. My approachable demeanor, coupled with a good sense of humor, ensures that every interaction with clients is not just productive but also enjoyable and comforting.

Specializing in family law, including divorce, child custody, and support, I am dedicated to providing the support and guidance needed in these sensitive matters. My background equips me to handle the complexities of each case with confidence and ease. You can trust that with my commitment to service and legal expertise, your needs will be met with the utmost care and professionalism.

My Story

Michelle Sawyer, a native of North Carolina, embarked on her academic and professional journey with a deep-rooted passion for the law and public service. She attended North Carolina Central University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science, minoring in Public Policy. Her commitment to her field of study led her back to the same university, where she graduated from the North Carolina Central University School of Law in 2022. During her time at law school, Attorney Sawyer honed her skills in mediation and negotiation, obtaining a certification in these crucial areas.

Her legal journey was enriched by her experiences clerking for the Honorable Larry D. Brown, Jr, and interning at family law firms in Wake and Orange Counties. This was further complemented by her significant time at the Wake County District Attorney’s office, where she returned as an Assistant District Attorney after passing the bar. In this role, she prosecuted complex cases involving sex offenses, child abuse, and domestic violence, equipping her with unique perspectives and extensive litigation experience.

Now, Michelle Sawyer brings her remarkable expertise and zealous advocacy to our firm. Her dedication to achieving the best outcomes for her clients is unwavering, and she is well-equipped to handle a variety of challenging cases with professionalism and skill.

Away from the courtroom, Michelle's life is just as dynamic. She enjoys shopping, traveling, and keeping up with the latest hair and makeup trends through YouTube. Music is a significant part of her life, and she often attends concerts and music festivals. Her commitment to the community shines through her role as a co-founder of the Crowned Collective Co, a Durham-based nonprofit, and as a coach for youth cheerleading, drawing on her own experiences as a retired competitive cheerleader.

At home, Michelle treasures the time spent with her family and friends, including her parents, siblings, and godchildren. Her life, a blend of professional dedication and personal passions, exemplifies her multifaceted approach to both her career and her daily life.