Skip to main content

Fred M. Morelock

Mediation Attorney at Raleigh, NC

5.0   14 reviews
  • Licensed for 47 years
    State NC
    Acquired 1976
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Fred

Learn Fred’s areas of practice.

Fred Morelock received his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1974 and his law degree from UNC in 1976.  He then practiced as a trial attorney for ten years in the areas of criminal defense and family law litigation before being appointed to the bench.  He joined Tharrington Smith in 2001.

In 1986, Mr.  Morelock was appointed by Governor James G. Martin to a Wake County district court judgeship.  He was reelected three times and served for fourteen years.  In 1990, Mr. Morelock became the first judge in Wake County to become a Certified Juvenile Law Specialist.  During the last several years on the bench, he presided almost exclusively in domestic court, most recently in North Carolina’s first designated specialized judgeship in the area of family law.

As a district court judge, Mr. Morelock was a frequent speaker and instructor for continuing legal education seminars for attorneys (North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers and Bar Association) and for judges (North Carolina Association of District Court Judges and the Institute of Government New Judges School) on various family law issues.  He has also been a seminar speaker for the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants  and the Wake County public school principals.  Mr. Morelock has served on the Board of Directors of the Wake County Bar Association and its Professionalism Committee, the Raleigh Rescue Mission, and Carolina Legal Assistance.

Mr. Morelock’s practice includes the representation of clients in all areas of family law, as well as mediation and arbitration. He is admitted to practice in all state courts and the federal district courts for the Eastern and Middle Districts of North Carolina.  Mr. Morelock is a member of the North Carolina Bar Association and its family law section.  He is former chair of the Grievance Committee for the 10th Judicial District and most recently was appointed by the State Bar Council to the Disciplinary Hearing Commission. He is a Certified Superior Court Mediator and a Certified Family Financial Mediator. In 2016, Mr. Morelock was appointed to a three year term as Chair of the North Carolina State Bar Disciplinary Hearing Commission.

Mr. Morelock is married to Jeannie S. Morelock, and they have two teenage sons.

Tharrington Smith LLP is a North Carolina law firm regulated by the Rules of Professional Conduct, as promulgated by the North Carolina State Bar. As such, our lawyers do not and cannot ethically participate in many of Avvo's programs, including its Legal Topics, Legal Forms, or its fixed-price legal services. Tharrington Smith advises extreme caution when relying on Q&A's or use of legal forms without the guidance of a qualified lawyer.

 

Photos and videos

Contact Fred

Similar lawyers nearby

Tharrington Smith, LLP
150 Fayetteville Street
Suite 1800
Raleigh, NC, 27601

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  14 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by Barbara | September 16, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding attorney!
I initially had a consultation with Fred about two years prior to filing for divorce. I remember being very impressed with his thoroughness and professionalism. I left the office that day with a sense of peace, knowing I had a trusted legal advisor to call upon if/when necessary. Eventually I did connect with Fred again and this time proceeded to file for divorce. My ex and I had pretty much agreed to custody arrangements for our child, but the financial side of our separation required clarity. Fred ensured an equitable separation of assets took place and that I had adequate child support as I embarked upon single parenthood. I have had a couple of occasions to contact Fred after the separation and he has been happy to offer legal guidance as needed. Again, just a peaceful feeling knowing he's just a phone call away should any future issues arise.
Read less
Posted by Daniel | September 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Support when I needed it the most
Fred handled my divorce case at the recommendation of my first attorney. I could not have been happier with the recommendation. Long story short - we tried a collaborative divorce approach at first and could not come to a compromise. Fred and his team took my case and within a short period of time we had gone through mediation and come to an agreement. There's nothing easy about divorce. But the process is EASIER when you have an attorney who is compassionate, has principles, actually cares about your kids' and ex-spouse's well-being and is non-judgmental. Fred knows the law. He knows what happens in court and how family law judges think. He has a wealth of experience. He kept us out of the courtroom and I will ALWAYS be thankful for that. I consider him a good friend. I would highly recommend Fred Morelock to anyone.
Read less
Posted by Zane | September 8, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Valued Counselor.
When you finally make the decision to divorce, you surely need the guidance of an experienced professional. Fred was one of several family law attorneys recommended by my business attorney. I was impressed with Fred’s legal & financial understanding and consistent, steady hand on the rudder. Wish I had made as good a decision 35 years previous. Over this long, complex process Fred explained each step, considered my position and took care to manage my budget. You don’t get just Fred, you get Team Morelock – each member efficiently working their portion. If you have to walk this trail, Fred Morelock, Esquire is the one you want at your side.
Read less
Posted by Cathy | September 4, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Navigating the storm of a Child Custody Dispute
I highly recommend Fred Morelock of the law firm Tharrington Smith, LLP without reservation to anyone in need of a family law attorney. I became Fred’s client ten years ago at the very beginning of a separation and divorce when my children were very young. Unfortunately, the issue of a child custody schedule became difficult to resolve. There were many complicated events including my ex-spouse moving out of state, but through it all Fred stayed focused on the long-term goal of the children’s best interests. Fred provided legal advice in a professional, knowledgeable, ethical, caring, respectful, kind, and compassionate manner. Although Fred and I tried to avoid legal proceedings as much as possible, ultimately my ex-spouse filed for full custody, and a custody trial was unavoidable. At every step along the way, Fred demonstrated his expertise with family law, including the larger issues that must be considered as well as the numerous technical legal requirements of the process. At the end of the custody trial, I was awarded legal custody and decision making authority for both of my children, and my ex-spouse was ordered by the Judge to reimburse me for a large portion of the legal fees I incurred. Now, years later, my children are doing great, and they maintain a relationship with their other parent long distance through extended visits and video calls. Fred’s previous experience as a Wake County District Court Judge for 14 years provided him with a unique understanding and knowledge of the courtroom, including how a family law Judge makes custody decisions. It was clear to me that during his time as a Judge and an attorney in Wake County, he earned the respect and friendship of the people that work in the courthouse at all levels from clerks to bailiffs to fellow attorneys and judges. Fred’s representation of my case in the courtroom was masterful. He was a passionate legal advocate. He was able to communicate easily with everyone involved, and he was able to identify and stay focused on the most relevant issues of the case. Over the course of ten years as my attorney, it has been necessary that I communicate with Fred periodically when issues of child custody resurface. Fred has always been very quick to respond to my phone calls and e-mails. His legal assistants are excellent, and if he is unavailable, which happens very rarely, he enlists the support of his colleagues in the Family Law Section at Tharrington Smith, LLP, to provide a backup contact for him. The amount of time and money that are spent during a child custody dispute can be very high. However, Fred was very careful and efficient with the amount of time that he spent on my case. The legal fees that I paid were money well spent because they resulted in a successful outcome for me and my children. In my case, a solid Court Order by a Judge based upon strong legal representation for myself has proven to be extremely valuable. It has even saved me money in the long run by providing me with successful, happy, and healthy children living in a safe and stable home. In conclusion, I highly recommend Fred Morelock without reservation to anyone in need of a family law attorney. He will work with you to determine your goals, he will provide realistic and practical advice on potential outcomes, he will be a strong ally on behalf of your goals, and he will work hard to make sure that your goals are accomplished.
Read less
Posted by KB | August 31, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An Ace in the Hole
Having Fred as my attorney felt like having a team of attorneys. Fred has the wisdom of an experienced attorney, the knowledge of a district court judge, and the likeability of the guy next door. Fred never encouraged me to be more aggressive than I wanted, but he always made sure I had all the facts before making any decisions. I was always reassured that I had the information I needed and a lawyer that could protect my interests anytime things went from bad to worse. As I said, he was my ace in the hole! I have since recommended Fred to many people. All have been just as pleased.
Read less
Posted by Debra | August 31, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent!
I cannot recommend Fred Morelock highly enough. Fred was recommended to me through a variety of sources, both personal and professional--a former colleague, a friend, a neighbor. I learned that he is well-regarded throughout the community in many capacities--as a former District Court Judge, an attorney, a mediator, a friend, a neighbor. He and his staff have represented me through a long, arduous and stressful separation/divorce process. They have always been kind, empathetic, and efficient while helping me to prepare for and make decisions regarding equitable distribution, court appearances and mediation--clearly and patiently answering my questions and explaining my options, and guiding me towards the most practical and effective course of action. In the end, they have helped me negotiate the best possible resolution--all the while maintaining impeccable ethics and professionalism. I have recommended Fred many times, and will continue to recommended him without reservation in the future.
Read less
Posted by Betsy | August 31, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Clarity in a time of Turmoil
Fred's integrity and command of the law was evident during our very first meeting. He provided me with legal clarity and leadership that allowed me to feel more at peace in a time of personal turmoil. I knew I was in good hands, so I slept better at night. Fred led me gently and professionally through to the other side of the separation/divorce tunnel, so that I could get my life back again! I will always be thankful to him for this, and I would certainly recommend his legal expertise and compassionate guidance to anyone facing the end of a marriage.
Read less
Posted by kelly | August 30, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
kelly g
Fred has always been an advocate for me and a straight shooter. He told me risks and worst case senarios so that i could make an informed decision. It was not what I wanted to hear however I never had any surprises and knew what to expect. His expertise and knowledge was worth every penny and he has been exponentially important to me since my divorce . If I have an issue he is responsive and gives me direction of where to go and is always supportive. I could not ask for anything better.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Raleigh's Best!
During what is a difficult time in a person's life, it is comforting to know that an attorney such as Fred is there to help advise and navigate any and all questions and obstacles that may stand in the way of moving on with one's life. I have recommended Fred to several friends going through separation and divorce.
Posted by Kara | August 28, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My Knight in Shining Armor
I can't say enough wonderful things about Fred. Not only does he know every twist and turn of the law, he also knows how to treat his clients. From beginning to end, I had complete confidence in Fred and felt a HUGE sense of comfort knowing he had my back. He is a gifted attorney and a true gentleman. And, yes, he was definitely my knight in shining armor!
Read less
Posted by Laura | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and compassionate
Fred Morelock is a phenomenal attorney… strong, compassionate and professional. He was and continues to be a wonderful advocate. I am so thankful to have been referred to Fred by one of my friends!!
Posted by Margaret | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate and Wise
Fred helped me negotiate and successfully conclude a separation and divorce. I am an attorney myself, so I had many resources to help me select a great domestic attorney. I chose Fred on the recommendation of a friend who mediates domestic cases in Wake County, based both on her recommendation and Fred's many years of experience handling domestic disputes as a District Court judge. From my first meeting with Fred, I knew I had made the right choice--Fred is not only highly experienced and knowledgeable, he is also principled, practical, compassionate and kind. Fred helped me through my domestic situation with services tailored just to what I needed--no more, no less. Fred is the first attorney I ever hired and I am so glad I did. I knew throughout that most difficult period in my life that I was being well taken care of.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | August 27, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Knowledgeable and Responsive
Fred was recommended by several friends of mine who are attorneys, and he was every bit as good as advertised. Fred did exactly what I'd hoped he could do - prevent a prolonged and expensive separation, avoid litigation/court, provide information and recommendations, and protect my financial/family interests. I'm not sure you'd find anyone with more knowledge and experience in family law.
Read less
Posted by Jackie | October 21, 2013
Sleep instead of worry
I met Fred during THE most difficult time of my life and cannot imagine how my situation would have turned out had anyone else been my divorce attorney. Knowing Fred had my back, I could sleep at night instead of staying up worrying, making it possible for me not only function, but to live to my fullest potential. I have recommended Fred to many people since that time.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Tharrington Smith, LLP
  • 2001 - Present
  • Independent Counsel
  • NC Medical Board
  • 2010 - 2013
  • District Court Judge
  • North Carolina District Court, 10th Judicial District
  • 1986 - 2000
  • Trial Attorney
  • Criminal & Family Law
  • 1976 - 1986
View all work experience

Education

  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1976
  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1974

Associations

  • Disciplinary Hearing Commission
  • Vice Chair
  • 2014 - Present
  • North Carolina State Bar
  • Member
  • 1976 - Present
  • North Carolina State Courts
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina
  • Member
  • N/A
  • North Carolina Bar Association, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • N/A
  • North Carolina Bar Association, Dispute Resolution Section
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Former Board of Directors
  • 2005 - 2006
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2018
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2017
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2015
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyer, Family Mediation Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyer
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2012
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2011
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyer
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2010
  • Appreciation Award
  • 10th judicial district bar
  • 2010
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2009
  • Presidents Award of Excellence
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • 2009
  • Legal Elite
  • Business North Carolina
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2008
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2008
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2006
  • Best Lawyers, Family Law Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2006
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Family Law Intensive Seminar
  • Recapture of Alimony
  • 2008
  • Perils and Pitfalls in ADR
  • Arbitration and Post Hearing Matters
  • 2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (4)
Endorse Fred
Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Fred has helped several of my clients through difficult domestic matters. He is an excellent lawyer and my clients were glad they went to him."
Family Attorney | Dec 16
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Fred. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Dec 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Fred Morelock is a person of exemplary character and expertise. He has experience in many areas of the law and as a former judge he is able to impart his vast knowledge to the benefit of his clients."
Family Attorney | Mar 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Fred for many years in his capacity as a family court judge, mediator and fellow lawyer. He knows the law well and is extremely dedicated to his work."
Divorce and separation
White collar crime

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Raleigh Mediation Lawyer Fred M. Morelock
Fred M. Morelock
Mediation Attorney
Raleigh, NC
Licensed for 47 years