Thomas, Ferguson & Beskind, LLP - TFB Lawyers

02/12/2026

📣 Case Update & Attorney Spotlight — Emilia Beskind, TFB Defense Counsel

We want to take a moment to highlight the remarkable advocacy of Emilia Beskind, a dedicated defense attorney with TFB, for her work in this case. Emilia stepped up for her client by filing a strong motion challenging procedural issues and insisting on full disclosure of evidence critical to a fair trial — a cornerstone of our justice system.

Throughout the proceedings, Emilia demonstrated unwavering commitment to her client’s rights under the law and to the fundamental principle that justice must be both fair and transparent. Her efforts resulted in an order that included that “The state is ordered to make inquiry of then-DA Seth Edwards, former Martin County Sheriff Tim Manning, SBI Agent Farrell, and any other person known by the state to have performed an investigative function in this case, as to whether they are in possession or otherwise aware of any material or any exculpatory evidence, or any impeachment material regarding any potential witness specifically including but not limited to any statements indicating racial or political bias or motivation of same, that has not been provided to the state, and if so, to obtain same from said person in written form and provide that information to defense counsel,”

We’re proud of Emilia’s thoughtful, client-centered representation in this complex case. Her persistence and skill exemplify the kind of tenacious advocacy TFB brings to every matter we handle.

👏 Please join us in recognizing Emilia Beskind for her hard work and dedication to justice!
Read more about the case in the article from The Daily Reflector:

The cases against Martin County Commissioner Ronnie Smith and former Martin County Manager U. James Bennett are continuing in pre-trial discovery.

01/27/2026

TFB attorney Kellie Mannette was quoted in today’s News & Observer discussing a recent North Carolina Court of Appeals decision overturning a felony conviction in a Johnston County case.

The Court ruled that the trial judge improperly allowed character witnesses to testify about the complainant’s general truthfulness, even though the defense had only challenged inconsistencies related to a specific allegation. Kellie explained that while credibility is always central in these cases, North Carolina law strictly limits when “truthfulness” character evidence can be introduced because of how powerfully it can influence a jury.

In addition to her trial practice, Kellie regularly handles criminal appeals across North Carolina, helping clients challenge legal errors and protect their constitutional rights when cases move beyond the trial court.

We’re proud to see Kellie’s thoughtful legal analysis contributing to public understanding of how appellate courts safeguard the integrity of criminal trials.

📰 Read the full article here:

The ruling was released months after the accused settled a civil lawsuit brought on behalf of the girl who said he’d abused her.

01/23/2026

TFB Attorney Kellie Mannette is in the news again!

Through exhaustive investigation and litigation, Kellie uncovered material evidence that had been withheld by the school system—evidence that demonstrated her client’s innocence.

After the case against her client was dismissed, law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office continued their investigation. That investigation ultimately led to indictments against the administrators who prevented these facts from coming to light for so long.

This is what thorough, relentless defense work looks like.

Three school administrators face charges of obstruction of justice and perjury. Here’s what court documents reveal in the investigation.

08/21/2025

🌟 We’re proud to share exciting news! 🌟

All of our attorneys at Thomas, Ferguson & Beskind, LLP have been recognized in the 2026 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America.

👏 William J. Thomas II (Best Lawyers since 2006)
Criminal Defense: General Practice

👏 Jay H. Ferguson (Best Lawyers since 2008)
Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law

👏 Emilia Beskind (Best Lawyers since 2024)
Criminal Defense: General Practice
Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

👏 Kellie Mannette (Best Lawyers since 2026)
Appellate Practice
Criminal Defense: General Practice

👏 Olivia Warren (Ones to Watch since 2026)
Appellate Practice
Criminal Defense: General Practice

These recognitions highlight our firm’s deep experience, passion, and unwavering dedication to our clients. We are honored to have the hard work of our entire team acknowledged on both the national and local stage. ⚖️

05/22/2025

🎉 Celebrating Legal Excellence: Kellie Mannette's Remarkable Achievement 🎉

https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/orange-county/article306692811.html

We are thrilled to acknowledge the exceptional work of TFB lawyer, Kellie Mannette, who recently secured a significant outcome in a challenging case. After nearly two weeks of intense trial proceedings, Kellie's unwavering dedication and legal acumen led to a plea agreement resulting in an 8-10 year sentence for her client.

What sets this case apart is Kellie's masterful cross-examination of the State's expert witness. Challenging expert testimony requires not only a deep understanding of the subject matter but also meticulous preparation and strategic questioning. Kellie's ability to dissect complex testimony and highlight inconsistencies played a pivotal role in achieving this favorable result.

This accomplishment underscores the importance of having a skilled and prepared attorney when facing serious legal challenges. Kellie's commitment to her clients and her craft exemplifies the highest standards of legal practice.

👏 Let's give a round of applause to Kellie Mannette for her outstanding work and dedication to justice!

05/09/2025

A beautiful night for our annual firm/family Bulls game!

04/29/2025

📣 Once again, TFB attorney Emilia Beskind is sought out for her deep expertise in Title IX proceedings. In the wake of recent allegations involving Shaw University's women’s basketball team, Emilia provided insight into how Title IX applies in college athletics and what universities must do to respond fairly and lawfully.

🎓⚖️ Emilia is a trusted legal voice on campus misconduct investigations and has represented students and institutions in complex Title IX matters across North Carolina.

📰 Check out the full story on WRAL: https://www.wral.com/news/local/shaw-university-womens-basketball-allegations-april-2025/

Nearly a dozen Shaw University women's basketball players have come forward with allegations of harassment, including s*xual and mental abuse, against a man affiliated with the team.

03/18/2025

📢 What is Gideon Day? ⚖️

Today, we recognize Gideon Day, marking the anniversary of Gideon v. Wainwright (1963), the landmark Supreme Court case that affirmed every person’s constitutional right to legal representation—no matter their financial situation.

At TFB, we are proud to uphold this principle by participating in public defense through our work in taking a limited number of court-appointed cases, and through supporting our local public defenders. Justice should never be a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. We stand committed to defending the rights of all individuals, ensuring fair treatment under the law.

Join us in recognizing the importance of Gideon Day and the ongoing fight for equal justice! 💙⚖️

03/17/2025

Exciting News! 🎉⚖️

TFB lawyer Emilia Beskind was recently consulted for her expertise in self-defense law in this ABC11 news report! Her insights help shed light on the legal complexities surrounding self-defense cases and how the law applies in real-world situations.

Check out the full segment here: https://abc11.com/videoClip/16039749/

We're proud to have such knowledgeable and dedicated legal minds on our team! 💪👩‍⚖️

Authorities in Nash County arrested a man for allegedly shooting a teenager in Spring Hope after making a 911 report about theft from his vehicle.

03/12/2025

📢 Spotlight on TFB Attorney Emilia Beskind 📢

TFB Attorney Emilia Beskind is making a powerful impact across the state. She is known for her relentless advocacy and sharp legal strategy. Emilia’s dedication to her clients and the pursuit of justice are what makes her one of the best in the field.

👏 Join us in recognizing Emilia Beskind!

Martin County Superior Court Judge Wayland Sermons will maintain jurisdiction over the Ronnie Smith and James Bennett indictment cases. That decision was

03/03/2025

🚨 Big Win in the NC Court of Appeals! 🚨

On February 20, 2025, TFB Attorney Kellie Mannette secured a major victory! 🏆 By identifying an error in her client's habitual felon conviction, she successfully had the judgment overturned.

Today, her client was resentenced. The Court of Appeals win ultimately saved him 8 years in prison! 🙌 This win is a testament to Kellie’s dedication and expertise in fighting for justice.

02/21/2025

🚨 Attorney Emilia Beskind Fights for Justice 🚨

Two former students are suing St. Andrews University, alleging the school knowingly admitted a convicted s*x offender who later assaulted them. Leading the charge is Emilia Beskind, partner at Thomas, Ferguson & Beskind, LLP, a powerhouse attorney dedicated to holding institutions accountable.

Beskind and her team are fighting to prove the university failed to protect students from a known threat. This case is about more than just one school—it’s about ensuring all students are safe on campus.

🔗 Read more: https://www.theassemblync.com/education/higher-education/former-students-sue-st-andrews-university-s*x-offender/

The two women say St. Andrews knowingly admitted a wrestler who was a convicted s*x offender, leading to their 2022 assaults.