Richard J. Kline

Richard J. Kline has built a long legal career centered on practical guidance and steady judgment. Since beginning practice in 1972, he has advised clients on complex legal matters that shape communities and businesses. His work reflects decades of experience handling issues where real estate, government, and commercial goals intersect.

Rick completed his Juris Doctor at the University of Akron School of Law. His academic training provided a strong foundation in legal analysis, property principles, and regulatory structure. This background prepared him for a career focused on real estate development, land use planning, and business-oriented legal problem solving.

Rick focuses his practice on commercial real estate, land use, business, and municipal law. Early in his career, he gained experience as in-house counsel for The Ervin Company, a regional real estate development company. This role strengthened his understanding of development strategy, risk management, and long-term project planning.

Rick later co-founded Cannon & Kline in Charlotte, NC, before relocating his private practice to Davidson. He went on to serve as the Davidson Town Attorney for a total of 40 years. In that role, he worked closely with public officials on governance, zoning, and municipal operations.

Rick brings more than 42 years of experience advising clients on commercial real estate transactions. His work includes acquisition, development, financing, leasing, and operation of single-use and multi-use projects. These matters often involve shopping centers, office buildings, residential developments, and other complex commercial properties from planning through execution.

Rick also advises start-ups, emerging enterprises, and established companies on business and corporate matters. His services include drafting and reviewing contracts, structuring business agreements, and guiding purchases or sales of businesses. He regularly provides counsel on incorporating entities and forming an LLC to support growth and compliance.

Richard J. Kline is known for delivering clear guidance before disputes reach litigation. He emphasizes careful planning, risk reduction, and practical solutions tailored to each matter. Clients benefit from his steady approach, deep regulatory insight, and long-standing experience navigating real estate, business, and municipal challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Copeland Richards, PLLC
• Member, North Carolina State Bar

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• University of Akron School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges