The Western North Carolina legal community faced significant challenges following Hurricane Helene, which severely impacted Asheville and surrounding areas. Attorneys in both private and public sectors discussed the disruption to legal operations with Law.com, highlighting efforts to manage court closures, provide essential services, and support each other in recovery.
The storm, which led to record-breaking river crests and widespread devastation, forced the North Carolina Supreme Court to amend orders, tolling case filing deadlines in affected counties. This allowed legal professionals to address personal safety concerns and infrastructural damage. Such measures gave temporary relief to those dealing with courthouse closures and property damage.
Throughout the crisis, legal professionals in the area contributed to relief efforts. Attorneys from Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, for instance, participated in supply transportation initiatives. Furthermore, collaborations between law firms, the North Carolina Bar Foundation, and companies like Honeywell helped provide legal assistance to emergency personnel through the “Wills for Heroes” program.
Despite significant operational challenges and sanitation issues in locations such as the Buncombe County jail, the local legal community demonstrated resilience and solidarity in overcoming these difficulties to resume operations.