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Ernest Clarke Dummit

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also known as Clarke Dummit
This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2008. Read more
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About Ernest

I have enjoyed hard battles in the courtroom for more than 30 years.  On May 13th 2015 I celebrated 30 years since I won my first jury trial in federal court.  I routinely represents clients with issues varying from family law and divorce questions to criminal Jury trials.   I have litigated for victims in cases ranging from simple auto negligence to medical malpractice and wrongful death cases.

I have enjoyed focusing our Firm on actual courtroom litigation for 30 years so we can settle without trial when possible, but we are always ready willing and able to litigate each case to the fullest.  I have had extensive experience in district and superior courts, and in both State and Federal Courts.  I know that the best way to resolve a case without litigation is to be prepared and come with the reputation that you try cases to the fullest conclusion.  My grandfather taught me the phrase: “Walk softly but carry a big stick;” or as Ronald Reagan taught us all: “Peace through strength!” (on our website you can find a picture of a very young Clarke Dummit (1980) working on the campaign trail with then Governor Reagan.)

I have enjoyed staying ahead and on the cutting edge of legal issues teaching dozens of seminars to other attorneys on civil and criminal litigation. I have taught CLE seminars for The North Carolina Advocates for Justice, Wake Forest University and NBI related to the latest defenses, scientific literature, case law, and legal treatises in a wide variety of legal issues.  I have been asked to appear as a commentator for News Channel 12 on legal issues and has taught cross-examination of law enforcement at a seminar in California.

After I received a B.A. from Vanderbilt University in 1983, and a J.D. from Wake Forest School of Law in 1986, I went on to found and run several business and develop real-estate prior to founding Dummit Fradin. My years as an entrepreneur have helped me advise many clients going through divorces regarding the methods of valuing businesses and searching for hidden income through forensic accounting.  I am very proud to be honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps; although the time I served our country was brief, being trained as a Marine changed my life more than any single event.   

Today, in addition to litigating cases, I enjoy teaching and supervising 12 lawyers in our Firm in 3 offices across the State.  We have developed a team approach which I learned in the Marines.  We are only as strong as our weakest link, so we continue to find and recruit the best and the brightest.  Our coordinated team approach to our litigation gives our clients access to great resources across the State.  

I welcome a chance to meet and discuss your legal issue and see if our team is the best fit for you.    

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Practice areas

Speeding and traffic ticketDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 40%

  2. DUI and DWI: 35%

    I tried and won my first DWI in 1985 while clerking during law school. Over the last 30 years I have represented thousands of clients in fighting convictions, and dealing with driving issues. It is important to not only know the legal issues in fighting, but also to know the nuances of sentencing and working with the DMV to get and keep driving privileges.

    35 years, 2,000 cases

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket: 25%

    I have been helping clients keep their license and get their license restored for 30 years. I have learned the ins and outs of all aspects of fighting the Division of Motor Vehicles.

    35 years, 30,000 cases

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

446670 1369421751

446670 1369421830

Contact

Dummit Fradin Attorneys at Law

1133 W 1st St
Winston-Salem, NC, 27101-3611

    Dummit Fradin Attorneys at Law

    412 W. Market Street
    Greensboro, NC, 27401

    Dummit Fradin Attorneys at Law

    820 North Elm Street
    High Point, NC, 27262

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    NCActive198605/31/2021
    GAResigned198605/22/2021

    Professional misconduct


    This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority.

    • Censure
      issued in NC, 2008

      updated on 01/27/2013

      This means the attorney did something wrong, but the Bar did not suspend the lawyer. Typically in this case the lawyer's poor behavior is exposed to the public in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

    • Censure
      issued in NC, 1999

      updated on 08/28/2008

      This means the attorney did something wrong, but the Bar did not suspend the lawyer. Typically in this case the lawyer's poor behavior is exposed to the public in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

    • Reprimand
      issued in NC, 1994

      updated on 01/27/2013

      Typically in this case the lawyer's poor behavior is exposed to the public in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers442
    Legal guides4
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2015
    ModeratorModerator for the NCAJ DWI Seminar2013
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Trial AttorneyDummitFradin1986 - Present
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    North Carolina Advocates for JusticeN/A2003 - Present
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Advanced Trial TacticsVOIR DIRE AND JURY SELECTION STRATEGIES2012
    Applying the Rules of Evidence: What Every Attorney Needs to KnowEXPERT REPORTS AND SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE2011
    The Criminal Defense Trial From Start to FinishCross Examination2010
    Marketing Your Legal PracticeImplementing the Plan2008
    Marketing For Your PracticeThe Art of Rainmaking2007
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Wake Forest UniversityJD - Juris Doctor1986
    Vanderbilt UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1983
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    The Criminal Defense Trial From Start to FinishCross Examination During Trial2016
    "Basics of DWI"Motions Practice2013
    First Annual Masters in DWIDWI - Complex Sentencing Issues2012
    Advanced Trial TacticsEFFECTIVE EXHIBITS AND COURTROOM TECHNOLOGY2012
    Applying the Rules of Evidence: What Every Attorney Needs to KnowETHICS2011
    Essential Law Practice ManagementEssential Law Practice Management2010
    The Criminal Defense Trial From Start to FinishCross Examination2010
    A Litigation Paralegal's Guide to Case ManagementLegal research2009
    Marketing Your Legal PracticeImplementing the Plan2008
    Automobile Cases From Start to FinishA Paralegal Perspective2008
    Marketing For Your PracticeThe Art of Rainmaking2007
    The Criminal Defense Trial From Start to FinishGuerilla Cross-Examination2007
    Automobile Litigation: Strategic Issues and AnswersTrial preparation2006
    The Criminal Defense Trial From Start to FinishVoir Dire2006
    Plaintiff's Personal Injury From Start to Finish in North CarolinaPreparing the Demand Package2005
    The Criminal Trial From Start to Finish in North Carolina: The DefenseAdvanced Trial Strategies2005
    Overcoming Your Fears: Utilizing Technology in LitigationComputers in Court2004
    The Criminal Trial From Start to Finish in North CarolinaVoir Dire2003
    The Criminal Trial From Start to Finish in North CarolinaExpert Testimony2001
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    St. v. Veazey2, 689 S.E.2d 530 (2009)Remanded to Trial level
    St. v. Veazey1, 191 N.C.App. 181 (2008)Remanded to Trial level

    Reviews

    (25)
    5 Star
    		96%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		4%
    Review Ernest Dummit

    Clarke Dummit saved my whole situation!

    Posted by

    Clarke Dummit reviewed a transcript of my case and called me immediately as I was in distress over what my situation could have looked like legally regarding an interlock device in my car. With his calming demeanor, the first words he spoke were "I have good news for you" and went on to tell me what no other lawyers would tell me regarding my situation. He did not want money, infact he told me the law that protected me in my case and I would not have to seek legal aid at all. What breath of fresh air! I told Clarke he was my savior and if anything pops up in my future demanding legal aid that he is certainly the one I'll be calling on! Thank you again, Clarke, for giving me and my family a peace of mind:)
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    An excellent lawyer

    Posted by

    My family and I have had the opportunity to use Mr. Dummit on several occasions and found him to be very professional, polite and fair. I would highly recommend Mr. Dummit or anyone else in his firm without reservation.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    The absolute BEST!

    Posted by

    I've personally dealt with Mr. Dummit and I can say with absolute assurance, my dealings with him and his firm have been beyond exceptionally smooth and the result he and his people delivered were far from beyond. Exceptional and personable services, indiscretion, sympathy and an unquestionable NEED to be an advocate for your rights. And above all--Dummit and his group were reasonable with the terms. All I was told is that they knew I was good with it, and thus I am. He/they have dealt with my criminal case and they'll definitely be requested to preside over my family case.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    DMV hearing

    Posted by

    Clarke Dummit helped me get my conditional license a year early. He was great! He made my family and I feel important and comfortable throughout the entire process and in the end we were successful! Would highly recommend for anyone!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Ernest Dummit's response: John: Thank you for the kind words. Please let me know if you have any questions as you work through the conditional restoration. Best wishes, Clarke

    Dr

    Posted by

    Mr. Dummit represented our son for a DMV restoration hearing following 2 DUI's. We were very successful in the hearing. He had us extremely well prepared for all aspects of the hearing. I was especially pleased when he could tell one of the witnesses was more apprehensive, that he suggested a return visit just to be sure he was more comfortable. Our family never felt judged or uncomfortable for the legal situation my son found himself in. He was both supportive and kind but also realistic regarding potential pitfalls both present and future. His staff was highly responsive to emails and returned questions in a prompt manner. Even though we had a strong case for DMV restoration I would never recommend going into a hearing without legal representation.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Ernest Dummit's response: Barb: Thank you for your review. I have a great team, and we love what we do. Best wishes, Clarke PS: You guys did great preparation and it made my job run even smoother. Thanks.

    BEST Attorney Around!!!

    Posted by

    Everyone at this Law Firm is very professional, and pleasing to deal with. Furthermore, Mr. Dummit took a Felony charge stacked on top of multiple other charges I had, and got everything dismissed with no repercussions on my end, not even community service! I was dreading the outcome because I knew with all the charges I had (cocaine, marijuana, paraphernalia, guns, etc) my odds weren't very good. But Mr. Dummit is a miracle worker to say the least! This is your guy right here!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Ernest Dummit's response: Adam: Thank you for the great review. I am very fortunate to be surrounded by a great team of paralegals and attorneys Clarke Dummit

    Interlock Violation case.

    Posted by

    Clarke Dummit was very honest and upfront with us regarding all of the potential outcomes for our case. The staff at Dummit Fradin are exceptional and very professional. Mr. Dummit was able to bring in an expert witness and prior to the actual trial, was able to get everything taken care of. I highly recommend!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Ernest Dummit's response: Holly: Thank you so much for your post; interlock violations are complex and involve not only scientific issues, but specific administrative procedures. I have spent decades learning the nuances of representing people in interlock violations. I am so glad I was able to knock this one out.

    Best Law Firm Ever

    Posted by

    I could not believe how "family oriented" they're entire staff was to me, it was unlike any other experience dealing with an attorney I had before meeting Clarke Dummit's office. He said that he could win my case & done so.... There's all these ad's on TV saying what they can do, but Clarke stood by my side in every way possible, even making personal calls to me just to make sure how I was doing during my time of need. With that being said I would recommend Clarke Dummit and his firm to anyone having a difficult time making they're choice for representation in court for any reason !
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent service

    Posted by

    I just wanted to thank you for your professionalism and your professionalism and courtesy you and your staff extended to me while I was a client. Unfortunately, I have had my share of dealings with the DMV, the court system, and other attorneys in regards to my DWIs. One of my chief complaints about other attorneys was that I could call or email about my case and the response would be one of three things: No response, vague response, or delayed response. That was certainly not the case with your office and I appreciate your services.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Strategic. Professional. Experienced.

    Posted by

    Strategic. Professional. Experienced. Those are the three words I would use to describe Clarke Dummit and his team at Dummit Fradin. My case was unique. Because of Clarke's knowledge and years of experience, he discovered a tiny flaw in the system and immediately knew how to use it to my advantage - something so tiny other attorneys wouldn't have uncovered it. He produced the best possible outcome - even better than we had initially discussed and agreed upon. He understood, because of my profession, how important it was for my case to remain discreet and confidential. Consequently, he treated every correspondence with professionalism and he was determined to get the best result. His representation was aggressive and powerful, which is exactly what I needed in a particularly conservative courtroom. I would highly recommend Clarke and his team.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (25)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Luis Maradiaga, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 10, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Clarke is an outstanding lawyer! He has a wealth of legal experience and knowledge. He is attentive and compassionate - his clients love him. A fearless litigator who never backs down from a fight. I strongly endorse this lawyer.

    Megan Spidell, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 27, 2017
    Relationship: Worked for lawyer

    Prior to joining Dummit Fradin, Mr. Dummit's reputation for creative trial techniques and arguments in Court preceded him. I witnessed him in Court, advocating with enthusiasm for his clients and taking on their individual plight as his own. Since joining the firm in 2013, I have had the opportunity to see this in more detail, as he attacks each case with years of research, knowledge and compassion for what he does. If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney, I highly endorse Mr. Dummit.

    Marvin Hobson, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 15, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    If you are faced with any type of legal issue and need someone to fight for your rights, Clarke Dummit is the attorney for you. Clarke fights tooth and nail for his client's and his vast litigation experience make him well-equipped to handle almost any legal matter. I strongly endorse this lawyer.

    David McCleary, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 15, 2017
    Relationship: Worked for lawyer

    I have had the opportunity to work for and learn from Mr. Dummit. His mastery of DWI law is unsurpassed. I would highly recommend this attorney.

    Daniel Donovan, Civil rights Attorney on May 6, 2016
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Clarke and I successfully worked together on a Civil Rights violation case. Most attorneys would not have taken the case. However, Clarke's insight, experience and positive relationship with clients resulted in a very successful outcome.

    Gavin Routt, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 5, 2015
    Relationship: Worked for lawyer

    I worked for Clarke right after I graduated from law school. He taught me a great deal about the practice of law and he is without question the best DWI lawyer I've ever seen.

    Frederick Adams, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 7, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Clarke for several years. He is a highly skilled DWI attorney, and he zealously advocates on behalf of his clients. I have seen him try many cases, and he does a great job for his clients.

    Matthew Davenport, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 7, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    R. Brian Cloninger, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 6, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Michael Eldredge, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 16, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    As a founding partner of his firm, Mr. Dummit is a highly skilled, compassionate, and dedicated attorney. He is highly respected in the field of DUI/DWI defense and has a positive track record for successfully defending many clients charged with DUI/DWI in North Carolina. I recommend this attorney.

    Jason Smith, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 8, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Clarke Dummit is an excellent lawyer. He truly cares about his clients and is a master in the court room. When I have a question about DWI, Clarke is one of the lawyers I call. He is many things to me: teacher, friend, and at times mentor. He is highly ethical and fights for his client's rights. Look no further for an excellent advocate.

    Harvey Barbee, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 5, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Clarke is an excellent attorney and a true fighter in the courtroom. He is extremely knowledgeable in the law and the rights of his clients and will not give up any ground to the State. If you need an attorney to stand up for you then you should look no further than Clarke and the Dummit Law Firm.

    Travis Simpson, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 30, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Clarke Dummitt without reservation. I have had the opportunity to see his endless efforts over the years representing defendants. I don't think of Clarke as just a "DWI" lawyer, I refer to him as a skillful and professional "trial" lawyer.

    Georgia Nixon, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Clarke is one of the leading DWI attorneys in the state. He is on the cutting edge of the constantly changing laws and always defends his clients to the fullest. He strives to mentor other attorneys to recognize the issues that face defendants in these cases.

    Michael Fradin, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Co-worker

    One of the best DWI lawyers in the state. From the creative arguments to the courtroom advocacy, you won't find a better fighter. I endorse Clarke Dummit 100%.

    Vincent Filliben, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Mr. Dummit is a leader in the field of criminal defense and DWI defense. I consider him to be the authority on DWI law in the State of North Carolina. Before I joined his firm's Charlotte office, Mr. Dummit was an attorney who I sought to emulate in the courtroom. I learned a tremendous deal from him prior to joining his firm, and have learned even more working with him. He is a tireless and passionate advocate who will truly fight for his client's rights. He is a true defender of rights and an asset to our legal community.

    Jason Deane, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have found Clarke's knowledge of the North Carolina's complex DWI laws to be exceptional. In my opinion he is one to the top DWI attorneys in the state.

    John Bryson, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Clarke is a leader in the DWI field in North Carolina. He has a State wide reputation as a top shelf DWI lawyer.

    Walter Jenkins, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 27, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have been on DWI continuing education programs with Clarke. He is very knowledgeable in all areas related to DWI defense. He has a good understanding of both the legal issues and the practical matters involved in successfully representing a defendant charged with DWI. I have referred clients to him who needed expert representation in the Winston-Salem area and have been thoroughly satisfied with Clarke's professionalism and competence. Walter I. "Butch" Jenkins III

    John Barrow, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 27, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I have known Clarke for many years. His trial work and dedication to the law is excellent. He is considered one of a few that are the best in his field.

    Cost

    RATES
    • Hourly Rates$350-$500/hour
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
      20 minutes
    OTHER BILLING TYPES
    • Contingency A contingency fee is the percent of the final award a lawyer will receive as compensation. For some of these cases, lawyers will only be paid if there is a successful outcome.
      25%-45%
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card