Attorney Brett S Yauger

Can you describe your journey in the legal field?

After graduating NC State, and being commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army, I developed a desire to assist people with real-life challenges they face everyday. I continued my service in the Army National Guard for an additional 12 years, and founded the law firm Rowland & Yauger in 1999.

What specific areas of law do you specialize in, and why did you choose those areas?

I specifically enjoy the practice of Criminal Law. It can be challenging and exciting, but it brings me satisfaction assisting people in my community with criminal matters. I know that the work I do makes an impact by ensuring peoples’ rights are recognized and upheld in a Court of Law. I enjoy Bankruptcy Law because I can help people in difficult financial situations find a way out under Federal Law that keeps them protected as they work on recovering financially from the hardships that put them in the position to file. Social Security Disability is also a great practice area because I can help people receive the backpay they are owed and ongoing financial relief, as well as receive other benefits like health insurance to assist with their physical impairments that caused them to file.

Can you share a pivotal case or moment in your career that shaped your practice?

The first Chapter 13 bankruptcy I filed was for a 83 year old widow who was under foreclosure by the bank. The bank had misappropriated my clients payments and refused to correct the mistake. I filed Chapter 13 Bankruptcy protection for the lady and she was not only able to keep the home, but paid it off in 4.5 years under bankruptcy.

How do you approach working with clients? What can clients expect when working with you?

I like to be straight forward with clients. Every case is as different as every person. The devil is in the details. Clients can expect an honest assessment of their legal problems, and a well grounded, practical, and reasonable solution.

What values or principles guide your legal practice?

Honesty and Integrity! I always try to follow the Golden Rule: Treat others as you would treat yourself!

What is your strategy for handling complex or challenging cases?

I know hard work is the best way to handle complex and challenging cases. It is important to understand every detail of the case, prepare a strategy, and be organized to execute the strategy well.

How do you maintain a balance between professional excellence and compassionate client care?

I have to walk with the clients as we work through whatever problem they are facing, and the key to maintaining a good client relationship is getting the job done well and keeping them informed of the process along the way, even if you have to tell them the ugly truth as part of that process.

What are some of your most significant professional accomplishments?

Establishing the law firm of Rowland & Yauger in Carthage, NC back in 1999, then opening our second location in Asheboro, NC a few years later. We now have 14 Paralegals/Legal Assistants, and 3 attorneys.

Are there any legal associations or organizations you’re actively involved with?

NCBAR and the Moore County Bar Association.

What motivates you to keep pushing forward in your legal career?

I am driven by the desire to serve the citizens of North Carolina with the best legal representation possible, with the best possible results as efficiently as possible.

Outside of work, what are some of your passions or interests?

I enjoy spending time with my wife and twin daughters. I also enjoy spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.

How do your personal experiences influence your approach to law?

I know what it’s like to sweat for a dollar. My strong work ethic helps me deliver strong results for my clients.

How do you contribute to your local community or the legal profession?

Pro Bono work and Juvenile cases assigned by court appointment allow me to serve those who can’t defend themselves. These areas of practice allow me to serve the members of the community who need it most, regardless of their financial or legal status.

What are your long-term goals for the firm?

We want to continue to expand our services to more citizens of North Carolina and continue contributing to the legal well-being of our State.

How do you stay updated on the latest developments in law, and how do you incorporate those insights into your practice?

Each year I am required by the NC BAR to attend a certain amount of Continuing Legal Education Credits which allow me to stay up to date with the ever changing areas of law.

Education

• Creighton University School of Law, Omaha, Nebraska
  • J.D.
• North Carolina University, Raleigh, North Carolina
  • B.A.
  • Honors: cum laude
  • Major: Political Science

Bar Admission

• North Carolina, 1996
• U.S. District Court Middle District of North Carolina, 1996

Practice Areas

• Bankruptcy
• Criminal Law
• Social Security Disability
• Workers’ Compensation

Current Employment Position

• Partner