Catherine A. Barnes

For more than 30 years, Catherine’s practice has covered representation of closely held businesses across many industries in various matters, including formation and continuation planning; representation during sale and acquisition of assets or stock; review and negotiation of contracts and leases; counseling with regard to employment matters, lender issues, shareholder issues, covenants not to compete, business ventures; and a variety of other issues.

She also provides ongoing counseling and representation of real estate developers in matters such as: negotiations with lenders, commercial leases and development agreements, title, and related matters.

Catherine served as the Managing Partner of James, McElroy & Diehl from 2012 to 2026.

She received her Bachelor of Arts from Salem State University and her Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

Academic Background

J.D., University of North Carolina School of Law, 1995
B.A., History, Salem State College, 1990

Bar & Court Admissions

North Carolina State Bar

Affiliations

North Carolina Bar Association

Professional Recognition

Named to the 2016 and 2018-2027 editions of The Best Lawyers in America© by Best Lawyers® – Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
Names to the “North Carolina Super Lawyers” 2025-2027 edition- Business Corporation
The Mecklenburg Times, 50 Most Influential Women
Business North Carolina Legal Elite in Business, 2024-2026
North Carolina Legal 250 in Business Transactions, 2026

Attorneys