John Edwards

John Edwards is the founding partner of Edwards Kirby, LLP, and a nationally respected trial lawyer known for taking on powerful interests to protect people’s rights. As a dedicated advocate for social and economic justice, John has built a legal career focused on giving a strong voice to individuals harmed by medical negligence, unsafe products, or corporate misconduct. He believes the legal system must work for everyone and has devoted decades to fighting for fairness, equality, and accountability in and out of the courtroom.

John graduated with honors from N.C. State University with a B.S. in 1974. He then earned a J.D. with honors from the UNC School of Law in 1977.

Throughout a distinguished legal career, John has achieved some of North Carolina’s largest verdicts and settlements. Early wins include multi-million-dollar results for families harmed by birth injuries and unsafe medical care. One defining case involved a defective swimming pool drain that severely injured a young girl. After years of litigation, John secured a $25 million award, the largest product liability verdict in the state’s history. His reputation for masterful courtroom advocacy has drawn praise from legal peers and the media alike.

Beyond the courtroom, John Edwards served North Carolina as a U.S. Senator and ran for Vice President and President of the United States. Despite a high-profile political career, his mission to help the disadvantaged remains at the center of his work. Today, John and the Edwards Kirby, LLP team continue to represent families in complex cases, including victims of PCB contamination at Poe Hall, aiming to create positive change while standing up for those harmed by negligence and injustice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Edwards Kirby
• Member, The Inner Circle of Advocates
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, D.C. Bar Association

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• UNC School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• NC State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges