R. Donavon Munford, Jr.

Don Munford has over 40 years of experience advising companies and individuals on legal matters that arise from business operations. In addition, he regularly advises individuals on estate and asset protection planning matters, including implementing estate tax savings techniques and charitable planned giving opportunities. His recent work has also included assisting public charities with their compliance and reporting requirements.

Don is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant and worked with the tax department of KPMG Peat Marwick before practicing law. He is also recognized by the North Carolina State Bar as a Board Certified Specialist in Estate Planning and Probate Law.

Recognition

• Chambers and Partners: High Net Worth, Private Wealth Law (2017-2019)
• Best Lawyers®
  • Litigation and Controversy - Tax (2006-2024)
  • Litigation - Trusts and Estates (2006-2024)
  • Tax Law (2006-2024)
  • Trusts and Estates (2006-2024)
• Best Lawyers®, “Lawyer of the Year,” Raleigh
  • Litigation - Trusts and Estates (2018, 2021)
  • Litigation and Controversy - Tax (2022, 2024)
• Business North Carolina Legal Elite, Tax/Estate Planning
• Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Rated
• Order of St John, Appointed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of efforts to promote peace and justice in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and contributions to St John Hospital of Jerusalem

Education

• University of North Carolina, J.D., 1979
• Davidson College, A.B., 1976

Bar & Court Admissions

Certifications

• North Carolina House of Representatives (2003-2004)
• Chair, Judiciary Committee
• Most Effective First Year Representative by North Carolina Center for Public Policy  Research

• Board of Directors, WakeMed Health and Hospitals (2012-2019)
• Board of Directors, Carolina Charter Corporation
• Board of Trustees, Peace College (2009-2012)
• North Carolina Actual Innocence Commission (2003-2004)
• Elder, White Memorial Presbyterian Church
• Counselor, The Society of the Cincinnati, Washington, DC
• Board of Directors, The State Capitol Foundation (2003-2012)
• American, North Carolina and Wake County Bar Association
  • American Bar Association/YLD House of Delegates (1989-1991)
  • Chair, North Carolina Bar Association Development Committee (1999-2003)
  • Member, North Carolina Bar Association Board of Governors (1990-1991)
  • Member, Wake County Bar Association Board of Directors (1998-2000, 2010-2012)
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation