Ken Soo, Attorney

For residents and organizations across North Carolina, navigating the complexities of legal matters often requires the guidance of a highly experienced and respected attorney. Whether the issues involve the intricacies of public school law, the nuances of employment disputes, or the rigorous demands of appellate practice, having a legal professional with a deep understanding of state and federal regulations is paramount. In the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, Ken Soo stands as a prominent and trusted attorney, known for his extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to his clients.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and informative overview of Ken Soo, Attorney, for those in the North Carolina region. We will explore his distinguished areas of practice, the accessibility of his Raleigh office, and the numerous accolades that underscore his reputation as a leader in the legal community. Our goal is to offer a factual and engaging perspective, helping you understand why Mr. Soo is a preferred choice for a wide range of legal needs in the state.

Introduction / Overview

Ken Soo is a highly regarded attorney based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and a long-time partner (now of counsel) at the distinguished firm Tharrington Smith, LLP. With a legal career spanning over three decades, Mr. Soo has cultivated a stellar reputation, particularly in the fields of public school law, employment law, and civil litigation, with a significant emphasis on appellate practice. His deep understanding of the legal framework governing these areas makes him an invaluable resource for both individuals and public entities across North Carolina.

Mr. Soo's background is notably diverse, beginning his professional life as a wire service and newspaper reporter for United Press International and The Charlotte Observer. This experience in reporting honed his analytical skills and ability to dissect complex information, qualities that undoubtedly serve his legal practice today. He pursued his legal education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating with honors in 1991, where he also served as a note editor for the North Carolina Law Review. This robust academic and professional foundation laid the groundwork for a distinguished legal career marked by numerous accolades and significant contributions to the legal community. Mr. Soo's dedication extends beyond individual cases; he is a recognized voice in education law, frequently speaking on critical issues affecting school systems across the state, showcasing his commitment to both legal excellence and public service.

Location and Accessibility

Ken Soo, Attorney, operates from the offices of Tharrington Smith, strategically located at 150 Fayetteville St #1900, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA. This address places his practice in a prime, easily accessible spot within the vibrant downtown district of Raleigh, North Carolina.

The central location on Fayetteville Street, a major thoroughfare, ensures that clients from across Wake County and surrounding areas, including Durham, Chapel Hill, and beyond, can conveniently reach the office. For those traveling by personal vehicle, downtown Raleigh offers a variety of parking solutions, including numerous parking decks and street parking, typically within a short walking distance of the office building. This ease of access helps alleviate the stress often associated with attending legal appointments.

Furthermore, the area is well-served by Raleigh's public transportation system. Multiple bus routes converge in the downtown area, with stops close to Fayetteville Street, providing an accessible option for clients who utilize public transit. The prominent positioning of the office within a well-known building in the heart of the city enhances its professional presence and ensures that it is easily identifiable for clients seeking legal counsel. This convenient and central location underscores Mr. Soo's commitment to making his expert legal services readily available to the communities he serves throughout North Carolina.

Services Offered

Ken Soo, Attorney, offers a broad spectrum of legal services, with a particular emphasis on areas critical to public institutions and individuals alike in North Carolina. His practice areas include:

• Public School Law (Education Law): This is a cornerstone of Mr. Soo's practice. He serves as general counsel for numerous North Carolina school systems, providing specialized expertise on a wide range of issues. This includes advising on public records and open meetings law, personnel matters (such as hiring, evaluations, dismissals, and compliance with employment contracts), student services and discipline, civil rights, special education, contracts, public bidding, and school funding disputes. He also provides counsel on constitutional issues affecting schools and assists with policy review and drafting.
• Employment Law: Mr. Soo advises both public and private sector clients on various employment-related matters. This encompasses issues such as drafting employment contracts, independent contractor agreements, and non-competition agreements. He also handles matters involving trade secret protection and provides guidance to employers on how to avoid potential legal problems before they arise. His work includes representing clients in employment disputes, wrongful termination claims, and addressing issues related to discrimination and harassment.
• Civil Litigation: As an experienced litigator, Ken Soo represents clients in a diverse array of civil disputes. His litigation practice often intersects with his expertise in education and employment law, where he advocates for clients in state and federal courts, as well as before administrative agencies. He is known for his thorough preparation and strategic approach to managing complex cases.
• Appellate Practice: A significant part of Mr. Soo's expertise lies in appellate practice. He represents clients in appeals before the North Carolina Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court of North Carolina, and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. His recognition as "Lawyer of the Year" for Appellate Practice underscores his exceptional skill in handling cases at the appellate level, which requires a distinct set of legal analytical and writing abilities.
• First Amendment Litigation: Ken Soo also handles litigation involving First Amendment rights, particularly as they pertain to public institutions like schools. This includes issues related to free speech, freedom of the press, and religious freedom within an educational or public context.

Features / Highlights

Ken Soo’s distinguished career is marked by numerous features and highlights that underscore his expertise and standing within the North Carolina legal community:

• "Lawyer of the Year" Recognition: Mr. Soo was named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for Appellate Practice in Raleigh (2023), a prestigious honor bestowed upon a single lawyer in a specific practice area and location each year. This is a testament to his exceptional skill and reputation in appellate law.
• Consistent Inclusion in Best Lawyers in America®: He has been consistently recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for his work in Appellate Practice, Litigation - First Amendment, and Litigation - Labor and Employment across multiple years, including 2025. This enduring recognition reflects consistent excellence.
• Recipient of the Ann L. Majestic Distinguished Service Award: In 2023, Ken Soo was honored with the Ann L. Majestic Distinguished Service Award by the Education Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association. This award recognizes lawyers who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the field of education law in North Carolina.
• Former Reporter: His previous career as a wire service and newspaper reporter for major news outlets like United Press International and The Charlotte Observer provides him with a unique perspective and sharp analytical skills, beneficial in dissecting complex legal issues.
• Frequent Speaker and Educator: Mr. Soo is a regular speaker for prominent organizations such as the North Carolina School Boards Association, the Principals' Executive Program, and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. He shares his expertise on critical issues affecting school systems, including personnel matters and employee evaluations.
• Leadership in Legal Associations: He is an active member of the North Carolina State Bar, the North Carolina Bar Association (including its Education Law Section), the Wake County Bar Association, the 10th Judicial District Bar, and the North Carolina Council of School Attorneys, where he also serves as a speaker.
• High-Profile Case Experience: Mr. Soo has been involved in significant appellate cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, further demonstrating his capability in high-stakes litigation.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, publicly advertised promotions or special offers are not a typical feature of a legal practice specializing in areas like education, employment, and appellate law, it is customary for attorneys of Ken Soo’s caliber to offer initial consultations. These consultations serve as a crucial first step for prospective clients in North Carolina to discuss their legal challenges, understand Mr. Soo's expertise in relation to their needs, and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Individuals or organizations interested in seeking Mr. Soo's legal guidance are encouraged to contact his office directly to inquire about the process for scheduling a consultation and any associated fees. This initial meeting provides an invaluable opportunity to receive a preliminary assessment of a legal situation and discuss potential strategies, allowing clients to make informed decisions about pursuing legal representation.

Contact Information

To connect with Ken Soo, Attorney, and his team at Tharrington Smith, please use the following contact information:

• Address: 150 Fayetteville St #1900, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA
• Phone: (919) 821-4711
• Mobile Phone: +1 919-821-4711

The office is available during standard business hours to respond to inquiries, assist with scheduling, and provide information regarding Mr. Soo's areas of practice. Direct contact is the most efficient way to discuss your specific legal needs and explore how his extensive experience can benefit your situation.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents and public entities across North Carolina, Ken Soo, Attorney, offers a truly compelling and highly suitable option for expert legal representation. His long-standing presence and deep specialization within the state's legal landscape make him uniquely attuned to the specific needs and challenges faced by locals. His extensive experience in public school law means that local school boards, administrators, and even families dealing with education-related legal matters can rely on his profound understanding of North Carolina's educational statutes and policies. Similarly, his expertise in employment law and civil litigation directly addresses common issues encountered by businesses and individuals throughout the state.

The numerous accolades, including his "Lawyer of the Year" recognition and consistent inclusion in "Best Lawyers in America," are not just national honors but serve as a strong testament to his high standing and effectiveness within the North Carolina legal community. These recognitions provide local clients with the assurance that they are engaging with an attorney who is not only highly skilled but also widely respected by his peers. Furthermore, his active role as a speaker and participant in state legal associations underscores his commitment to staying at the forefront of legal developments relevant to North Carolinians.

Finally, the convenient location in downtown Raleigh ensures accessibility for clients from various parts of the state, making it practical for those seeking his specialized services. Ken Soo’s blend of deep legal knowledge, proven track record, and dedication to serving the community makes him an exceptional and highly suitable choice for anyone in North Carolina in need of expert legal counsel in his areas of practice.