Janet Ward Black

Janet Ward Black is a North Carolina trial attorney with decades of experience representing individuals harmed by negligence, unsafe workplaces, and dangerous products. Her practice focuses on personal injury, workers’ compensation, and complex product liability litigation, including cases involving medical devices, prescription drugs, asbestos, and environmental hazards. Under her leadership, clients have recovered more than $100 million in settlements over the past decade across North Carolina.

Black earned a B.A. in Economics, cum laude, from Davidson College and her J.D. from Duke University School of Law. Her academic background provided a strong foundation in analytical reasoning, litigation strategy, and economic analysis. She was also recognized as a Lunsford Richardson Honors Scholar and a Charles A. Cannon Scholar, distinctions that reflect her commitment to excellence in legal and professional development.

Throughout her legal career, Black has held prominent leadership roles within the legal profession. She served as president of both the North Carolina Bar Association and the North Carolina Association of Trial Lawyers, becoming only the second attorney to lead both organizations. She created the statewide “4 ALL” initiative, a pro bono program that has connected more than 100,000 North Carolinians with free legal assistance through coordinated lawyer participation.

Janet Ward Black is widely recognized for her legal skill, ethics, and service to the community. She has received numerous honors, including the North Carolina State Bar’s Distinguished Service Award, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and multiple recognitions as a leading trial lawyer. Her practice reflects meticulous preparation, client-centered advocacy, and a long-standing commitment to justice, professional leadership, and meaningful service across North Carolina courts.

Law Office Affiliations

• Owner, Ward Black Law
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, Christian Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, North Carolina Bar Association
• Member, North Carolina Advocates for Justice
• Member, North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys
• Member, Women’s Professional Forum, Greensboro

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• Duke University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Davidson College
  BA in Economics, Cum Laude

Awards & Badges