Kelly Wilburn
“Her vocal side shines in the courtroom, advocating for her clients with a fierce determination and love for the law. ”
Kelly Wilburn
A Homegrown Talent
Kelly’s legal skills are matched only by her fierce determination and love for the law, making her a powerful advocate for her clients. This Jacksonville, North Carolina native grew up in the community and is thrilled to be practicing law in her hometown. As the youngest of her siblings, Kelly was influenced by her Marine parents who instilled in her a strong work ethic and a desire to serve her community. She was born in Camp Lejeune Naval Hospital, and lived on a military base until she was 6, fostering a deep appreciation for our nation’s servicemen and women. Her fond memories of the base include basking in the sun and playing in the sand at Onslow Beach with her family.
After graduating from North Carolina State University in 2008, Kelly took a gap year to serve as an intern at the Onslow County District Attorney’s Office, where she found her calling to become a lawyer. During the internship, she researched case law, wrote memos, and primarily worked on researching murder cases. A local attorney there who graduated from Western Michigan University’s Thomas M. Cooley Law School recognized her potential and encouraged her to apply to the institution. In 2012, Kelly graduated from Cooley and began her legal career as a Legal Administrative Assistant in Maryland.
Just Getting Started
Kelly passed the North Carolina bar exam in 2021, and joined Cape Fear Family Law in October 2022. She was inspired by Janet’s professionalism and passion for helping clients navigate the often-emotional and complex landscape of family law. Kelly is excited to be a part of the team and to continue to grow and learn alongside Janet and the rest of the firm.
Kelly’s background is in criminal law, but she is eager to expand her knowledge and experience in the field of family law. She is particularly interested in learning more about family law mediation and guardianship cases. But it’s not just Kelly’s legal skills that set her apart, while she considers herself an introvert in her personal life, her vocal side shines in the courtroom, advocating for her clients with a fierce determination and love for the law.
Inspiring Future Leaders
When she’s not in the courtroom, Kelly is a dynamic part of her community and loves to professionally network. She’s an active member of the Toastmasters, a public speaking club, and aspires to one day compete in the Toastmasters International Public Speaking World Championships. Kelly is also an accomplished violinist, having played consistently since she was 11, and is passionate about music, arts, and theatre. She’s a fan of ’90s pop and ’80s rock, and enjoys singing along to the likes of artists Brittney Spears, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, and Backstreet Boys. Her love of acting is unmistakable; she’s played the character of Annelle in a Steel Magnolias play and performed at Sneads Ferry Community Theatre.
As a lifelong learner, Kelly also dedicates her time to the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program, where she is an instructor and mentor for rising high school seniors. The program teaches girls how to run their own government, educates them on the judicial system, and even demonstrates how to build government budgets. She truly believes in the organization and the impact it can have on young girls, helping them to realize how they can grow and what they are capable of accomplishing.
Getting Personal
Kelly is a devoted sports fan, rooting for her alma mater NC State and the hometown Carolina Hurricanes. She is still an avid follower of the Washington Nationals and Capitals from when she lived in Maryland. She enjoys watching golf, gymnastics, and even did dance and gymnastics recreationally through high school.
When Kelly isn’t working or giving back to her community, she enjoys spending time in Raleigh with her boyfriend, Josh, and his dog, Duke (did we mention she’s an NC State alum?). She also has a pet cat, Smalls, who has grown with her for the last 17 years! Kelly loves to spend time with her nieces and nephews at the park, the beach, and doing fun activities around Jacksonville. With her strong work ethic and determination, Kelly is poised to make a real impact in the field of family law and the community she calls home.
