R. Clarke Speaks

R. Clarke Speaks is the founder and chief executive officer of Speaks Law Firm, which maintains offices in Wilmington and Charlotte, North Carolina. His practice focuses on personal injury, catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and workers’ compensation. He represents injured people and their families in disputes involving insurers and other potentially responsible parties. His approach emphasizes thorough case preparation and attention to each injury’s consequences.

Clarke earned a B.S. in Economics from East Carolina University and a J.D. from Campbell University School of Law. During law school he received a North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers award and gained experience in federal court and an insurance defense setting. This background informs his understanding of trial strategy, insurance disputes, and the legal issues involved in serious injury claims.

Since establishing his practice in 1997, Clarke has tried more than 30 jury trials to verdict and more than 100 bench trials. His experience includes state, federal, and appellate proceedings, as well as earlier work in criminal defense and capital cases. He handles claims arising from vehicle collisions, dangerous premises, workplace injuries, and other serious incidents that can require detailed investigations.

R. Clarke Speaks has written The North Carolina Auto Injury Book and other educational materials and has presented programs for legal professionals. He also hosts a podcast addressing litigation and recovery after serious injuries. His litigation background and public education efforts support a practice centered on explaining legal choices, developing evidence, and pursuing appropriate outcomes for people affected by negligence.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Speaks Law Firm, PC
• Member, The North Carolina State Bar
• Member, National Trial Lawyers
• Member, Million Dollar Advocates Forum
• Member, Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
• Member, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• Campbell University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• East Carolina University
  Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics

Awards & Badges