Request A Consultation
(919) 821-4711
Request A Consultation

About Tharrington Smith

/ About Us /

Our Story

We don’t deal with cases, we deal with people. That is the foundation of our practice, and we will continue to passionately represent clients in all types of legal matters. Throughout our firm’s 50 year history, we have been fortunate enough to have helped people from every walk of life with legal issues of every size, shape, and kind. It is a privilege and an honor to have served our community for so long. Our lawyers and staff have built our legacy on providing excellent service and helping our clients solve their specific legal problems. Tharrington Smith has worked with countless individuals, businesses, and governmental entities to find lasting legal solutions for more than half a century. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue working hard for each of our clients in every way possible.

History

Tharrington Smith, serving clients since 1964.
1964

The Beginning

On September 1, 1964, Harold Tharrington and Wade Smith, classmates at UNC-Chapel Hill, opened the doors of their new law firm. They welcomed any client who walked in—paying or not. Their dedication and skill led to early success, and in the following years, they were joined by Wade’s brother, Roger Smith, and attorney Wade Hargrove.

1978

Growth and Specialization

The firm became Tharrington, Smith & Hargrove and developed a diverse range of specialties. Tharrington focused on family law; the Smiths built a reputation in criminal defense; and Hargrove established a growing radio and television law practice. While these became the firm’s most recognized areas of expertise, the attorneys continued to handle a broad spectrum of cases.

1985

Expansion into Education Law

By 1985, the firm had expanded to a dozen attorneys and relocated to its former office at 209 Fayetteville Street. Around this time, education law emerged as a key practice area. With the addition of George Rogister, the firm gained the Wake County Board of Education as a client. This led to representation of the North Carolina School Boards Association and numerous other county school boards, including those in Edgecombe, Durham, Person, and Hertford counties.

1988

Reputation and Prominence

By the late 1980s, Tharrington Smith had expanded to over 30 attorneys and earned a reputation for excellence. The Smiths had become two of North Carolina’s most prominent criminal defense lawyers, handling high-profile cases such as the defenses of Jeffrey MacDonald and Lieutenant Governor Jimmy Green. Hargrove’s communications law practice flourished, serving major clients like the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters and the National Organization of ABC-TV Affiliates. Meanwhile, Tharrington’s family law team became one of the most respected in the state, and Rogister, as chair of the National Council of School Attorneys, further established the firm’s leadership in education law.

2008

Transition and Growth

In 2008, Fred Morelock became managing partner, leading the firm through a period of strategic growth. Under his leadership, Tharrington Smith expanded its team, strengthened its reputation, and adapted to an evolving legal landscape. His tenure included navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the firm’s seamless transition to remote work while maintaining its commitment to excellence and client service.

2013

New Office Location

In 2013, the firm moved to its current location at 150 Fayetteville Street, consolidating its operations and reinforcing its presence in the heart of Raleigh.

2024

Present: A New Era

In 2024, Russell Babb and Evan Horwitz assumed the role of managing partners, ushering in a new chapter for Tharrington Smith. They emphasized the firm’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and client advocacy. They highlighted the firm’s collegial environment, dedication to clients, and its enduring legacy as a leader in North Carolina law.

Today, Tharrington Smith continues to build on its decades of success, offering exceptional legal representation across multiple practice areas while remaining committed to the principles established in 1964.

/ Community /

In the Community 

Tharrington Smith has a long history of providing support for the Triangle community.  With an emphasis on education and the arts, the law firm has provided significant support to the following organizations:

  • Artspace and First Night Raleigh
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
  • North Carolina School of Government
  • North Carolina Symphony
  • Professional Fire Fighters of North Carolina
  • Southern Environmental Law Center
  • Susan B. Komen Race for the Cure
  • Wake Education Partnership
  • WakeMed Foundation
  • Works of Heart
Read Our Community Stories
/ Awards /

Tharrington Smith Awards

At Tharrington Smith, we are very proud of the accomplishments of our lawyers. We work hard to ensure the success of our clients and are appreciative of the recognition that has brought to our firm and our lawyers individually. Above and beyond our State’s annual peer review and awards, our attorneys have been recognized on many levels.

View Our Awards
/ Excellence /

Our Results

Learn More
/ Trusted /

What our clients say about Tharrington Smith

0 Client Reviews

Let’s Talk.
Schedule a Consultation.

(919) 821-4711 / (919) 829-1583 

150 Fayetteville Street
Suite 1900
Raleigh, NC 27601

P.O. Box 1151
Raleigh, NC 27602

Get in Touch
Complete the form and we will contact you.

Follow Us

© 2025 - Present Tharrington Smith. All Rights Reserved.