The Filling the Justice Gap Award: NCBA Paralegal Division
The NCBA Paralegal Division plays a vital role in supporting attorneys and advancing access to justice across all 100 North Carolina counties. This year, the Division has contributed to a range of impactful pro bono initiatives, including driver’s license restoration clinics, Wills for Heroes, Lawyer on the Line, and a book drive for elementary students.
The Division’s defining effort for the 2024–25 Bar Year is its partnership with NC Disaster Legal Services to support families in Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. Through a collaborative effort within the Division’s Pro Bono Committee, a tailored case management system was developed and implemented, enabling volunteers to effectively coordinate and manage over 160 disaster relief cases. This initiative highlights the Division’s dedication to innovation, teamwork, and meaningful service during times of crisis.
This exceptional team of six North Carolina paralegals—Yazmeen O. Gadalla, Rachel Royal, Natalie Porter, Peggy Pardue, Katie Riddle, and Dr. Alicia Mitchell-Mercer—has been instrumental in advancing Disaster Legal Services (DLS) across the state. As case managers and group leaders, they have collectively overseen and supported more than 160 disaster relief cases through the North Carolina Bar Foundation’s Pro Bono Disaster Legal Services Program.
Each brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to access to justice:
Yazmeen O. Gadalla, a corporate and bankruptcy paralegal, holds leadership roles within the NCBA Paralegal Division and brings strong experience in compliance and court procedures.
Rachel Royal, a recognized pro bono leader and program coordinator at Frontline Justice, has led numerous legal aid initiatives and received the NCBA’s Closing the Justice Gap Award.
Natalie Porter, founder of Apricus Paralegal Group and a three-time NC Pro Bono Honor Society inductee, is a thought leader in legal innovation and practice design.
Peggy Pardue, a veteran family law paralegal and 2024 Distinguished Paralegal Award recipient, has long served in leadership and mentoring roles within the NCBA.
Katie Riddle, a senior paralegal and future attorney, balances her legal career and law school while also serving as a mediator and arbitrator in complex matters.
Alicia Mitchell-Mercer, COO of Frontline Justice, is a decorated military veteran and project management professional with deep expertise in regulatory policy and legal operations.
These six paralegals exemplify the power of dedication, leadership, and service, and their collective impact continues to expand access to legal support for disaster survivors across North Carolina.