Karl S. Gwaltney

I grew up in New Bern and attended the University of North Carolina School of Law. Before law school, I graduated with honors from Appalachian State University. During my time in law school, I was one of two students in my class to complete over 450 hours of pro bono service. I remain dedicated to public service by volunteering with organizations such as the Wake County Food Bank, serving as a Guardian ad Litem, and participating in the Legal Aid of North Carolina’s Pro Bono program. My practice focuses on consumer protection and class action litigation, including handling unfair debt collection claims under the North Carolina Debt Collection Act, North Carolina Collection Agency Act, Federal Fair Debt Collection Act, Telephone Consumer Protection Act, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Drawing on my work experience and undergraduate studies in employment matters, I also represent individual employees in recovering unpaid wages and penalties in state and federal wage and hour claims. Additionally, I handle other employment-related issues, including compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act and the North Carolina Wage and Hour Act. I have served as lead counsel and class counsel in numerous cases, achieving substantial settlements or arbitration awards for North Carolina consumers. My practice spans state and federal courts in North Carolina, arbitration, and appearances before state and federal administrative agencies, including the Department of Labor. I find the greatest fulfillment in building relationships with my clients and addressing their challenges, whether through litigation or alternative solutions. I take pride in advocating for my clients against some of the largest corporations and law firms in the world. I am a member of the National Association of Consumer Advocates, the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, and the North Carolina Bar Association.