Pope Aylward Sweeney & Stephenson

At Pope Aylward Sweeney & Santaniello, LLP, we are a team of dedicated attorneys who have been serving the community for over 50 years. Our firm was founded on the principles of providing a superior work product, a commitment to our clients' interests, and a passion for delivering exceptional results. With a deep understanding of the legal landscape, we take pride in being trusted advisors and advocates for businesses and individuals alike.

Our Firm's History

Our story began more than five decades ago as a civil litigation boutique in Charlotte, NC. Over the years, we have evolved to become a premier law firm, known for our expertise in workers' compensation, civil litigation, and labor and employment law. Our extensive depth of jury trial experience distinguishes us from our peers, allowing us to provide proactive corporate risk management counseling long before lawsuits are filed.

Our Services

At Pope Aylward Sweeney & Santaniello, LLP, we offer a wide range of services designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our attorneys are experienced in:

Workers' Compensation

The rules for workers' compensation are completely different. Companies and their insurers rely upon us to defend them as efficiently as possible.

Civil Litigation

We defend civil litigation in state and federal courts in wide-ranging areas, including construction, auto, products, premises, employment liability, and corporate and directors and officers litigation. From small nuisance suits to complex bet-the-company matters, we offer an hourly rate or a flat fee. A closed file is a good file.

Labor and Employment

Business owners and human resource professionals need a hotline they can turn to for sound legal advice and counsel. We are experts in employment law who stand ready to defend your interests if the time comes.

Testimonials

Our clients' testimonials speak volumes about our commitment to excellence:

"Any time I find myself in a position where I need guidance on an employment law issue, or when I simply want confirmation that I'm on the right track and am interpreting legislation or regulations correctly, I don't hesitate to call attorneys at Pope Aylward Sweeney & Santaniello. Efficient - personable/easy to talk to - respectful of my timelines/deadlines - reasonably priced. Exactly what I need!" Trish Gibson, Human Resources Manager at Shat-R-Shield, Inc.

"The attorneys at Pope Aylward Sweeney & Santaniello, LLP can defend any lawsuit, small or large, in any of North Carolina's 100 counties. They can also read and translate complex insurance policies and forms, and applicable law, to adjusters, insureds, opposing attorneys, and judges. I have been with them in mediations and in jury trials and always come away impressed. Add them to your panel and you'll thank me later!" Cliff Greenup, CEO of Diversified Claims, Inc.

Meet Our Attorneys

Our firm is proud to feature some of the most experienced and respected attorneys in the region. Our team includes:

• James W. Pope, Retired: A proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts.
• Robert J. Aylward, Attorney: The majority of Bob's career has been spent in the court room as a trial lawyer defending.
• Edward A. Sweeney, Managing Attorney: Much more than a tenacious litigator, first and foremost, Ed is a trusted counselor.
• Andy Santaniello, Attorney: Andy's extensive legal experience includes over 100 tried cases to jury verdict.
• Michael J. Kitson, Attorney: Michael's vast trial experience includes close to 75 cases to jury verdicts.
• AJ Elmes, Attorney: AJ has an extensive background in worker's compensation defense including experience appearing before the North Carolina Industrial Commission.

Conclusion

At Pope Aylward Sweeney & Santaniello, LLP, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services to our clients. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and a passion for delivering outstanding results, we are proud to be a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike. Contact us today to learn more about how we can serve your needs.