Barrett & Farahany Expands North Carolina Team with Kathryn Abernethy
Barrett & Farahany, a leading employee-rights law firm, has announced the addition of Kathryn Abernethy as a pivotal player in their expansion into North Carolina. Officially joining the firm on January 5, 2026, Abernethy comes with a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence in employment law. This strategic move is set to enhance Barrett & Farahany's capabilities in advocating for workers' rights across the state, including key cities such as Raleigh, Charlotte, and the Piedmont Triad region.
Kathryn Abernethy has built a distinguished career over more than 15 years, primarily focusing on employment litigation and workplace rights. She had an impressive tenure at The Noble Law, where she served for nearly a decade as a Partner, representing employees in complex disputes ranging from sexual harassment and discrimination to wage violations and whistleblower retaliation. Her in-depth knowledge of both state and federal employment laws makes her a formidable asset to the Barrett & Farahany team.
Her legal background is rich and diverse, covering significant legislation that governs worker rights, such as Title VII and the Fair Labor Standards Act. Furthermore, she is well-versed in the North Carolina Wage and Hour Act, which will be crucial for the firm as it seeks to assist clients navigating these complex legal waters. Abernethy has not only represented clients in various administrative hearings but has also taken on cases involving appeals and licensing before several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Labor and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Born out of a passion for advocating worker rights, her educational accomplishments include a Juris Doctor degree from Washington University School of Law, where she graduated in the top 10% of her class. During her academics, she was an Articles Editor for the Washington University Law Quarterly, which laid the groundwork for her development as a respected litigator. With a Bachelor of Arts in History from Westminster College, she combines her academic prowess with extensive practical experience.
As a recognized expert in her field, Kathryn has contributed to various legal discussions and educational seminars. She has been invited to speak for reputable organizations, including the North Carolina Bar Association, and has offered her insights to media outlets like Forbes and WRAL concerning critical workplace issues. Her accolades include being named to the Illinois Rising Stars list in 2010 and 2011, and she has consistently been recognized in the North Carolina Super Lawyers list since 2022.
Barrett & Farahany's announcement regarding Abernethy's onboarding signals a significant step forward in the firm's commitment to expand its footprint in the Carolinas. With her joining, the firm is poised to better support employees and professionals facing workplace challenges, fulfilling its mission to ensure justice, dignity, and fairness in employment.
Barrett & Farahany, distinguished for its national reach and dedication to worker advocacy, firmly believes that Abernethy's expertise will strengthen its voice in the Southeast and Illinois. As the firm embarks on this exciting chapter, it remains committed to defending individuals against discrimination, harassment, and various forms of workplace injustice. As they bolster their team with top legal talent, Barrett & Farahany continues to evoke confidence and hope among those navigating the often turbulent waters of employment law. Their ongoing efforts resonate deeply within the communities they serve, reaffirming their position as champions of worker rights.
This expansion offers promising news for both the firm and the employees they advocate for, ensuring that workers in North Carolina will continue to receive expert legal assistance tailored to address their unique employment dilemmas.