Guilty Pleasure Adventure motorcycle trips.

Vita 56; born in Greenville; bachelor’s from East Carolina University and law degree from Campbell University; married with three children and a black Lab.

Why he chose to specialize in this field I came out of law school with the idea of being a tort and products liability lawyer. In 1986, I began practicing in Greenville, home of ECU. There was a great demand to handle criminal matters for the local student population. Immediately I recognized that criminal cases were always interesting and challenging. More importantly, I began to learn that a lot of people in these predicaments needed more than just a lawyer. They needed the counsel to avoid getting back into trouble, some direction, guidance and encouragement.

Best advice received From my father: In every task, always give your best… it’s the best PR you’ll ever have. From [Raleigh criminal defense attorney] Wade Smith:  Never drink coffee with your clients.

Favorite place Down on the farm in Pactolus (near Greenville). Peace, solitude and reflection can be found in its hardwood and pine forests and open fields.

Favorite book The Art of War, by Sun Tzu, a Chinese military treatise that consists of 13 chapters for military strategy and tactics for warfare. Although written over 2,000 years ago, its concepts and principles can be utilized by the criminal  practitioner to achieve a successful outcome.

Passions Riding “Hercules,” my BMW GSA 1200 adventure motorcycle, to places off the beaten path — places few people get to see. You get the opportunity to get up close and personal with the weather, the sights, the sounds and the animals. Adventure motorcycling is a wonderful opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and different cultures.