Orville D. Coward, Jr.

Orville D. Coward, Jr.: Experienced Business and Real Estate Attorney in Asheville, North Carolina

Orville D. Coward, Jr., is a highly distinguished attorney based in Asheville, North Carolina, with over four decades of experience dedicated to providing exceptional legal counsel in the fields of business and real estate law.

Introduction

Born on December 22, 1953, in Sylva, North Carolina, Orville D. Coward, Jr., has established a remarkable career dedicated to serving clients across various sectors, including Drake Enterprises, Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Franklin Board of Realtors, Highlands Country Club, Cullasaja Club, and Highlands Falls Country Club.

Driven by his commitment to the legal community, Mr. Coward served as President of the 30th Judicial District Bar (2001-2002), a testament to his influential presence in Asheville's legal landscape. He has been an active member of Western North Carolina Legal Services and the U.S. District Court Western District North Carolina Rules Advisory Committee.

Practice Areas

• Litigation - Land Use and Zoning
• Litigation - Real Estate
• Real Estate Law
• Corporate Law
• Special Focus: Real Estate Law

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English, Yale University, magna cum laude (1976)
• Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of North Carolina Law School (1979)
• Admitted to U.S. District Court, Western District of North Carolina (1979)
• Admitted to Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals (1985)

Awards:

• Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - Land Use and Zoning, Asheville (2023), recognized by Best Attorney USA since 2019
• Literary Awards for Real Estate Development in Western North Carolina from Woodward-White, Inc. (since 2016)
• AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell (2018), recognized by Best Law Firms

Firms:

• Coward, Hicks & Siler PA

Professional Affiliations and Recognized Since

• Maintained membership in the North Carolina State Bar since 1979

Languages:

• English

Location

Mr. Coward practices his legal expertise from his office in Franklin, North Carolina and resides in Webster and Asheville. He is married to Carolyn L. Coward, a fellow attorney with The Van Winkle Law Firm in Asheville.

Apart from the office, Orville enjoys hiking, swimming, and mountain climbing with his family, all of which are offered abundantly in Western North Carolina's outdoor environment.

Professional Philosophy

Orville D. Coward, Jr., prides himself on providing proactive, knowledgeable counsel to clients navigating complex legal landscapes, ensuring each matter is approached with precision and compassion. His dedication to his clients extends beyond the courtroom, making him a trusted advocate for those seeking justice and solutions in real estate law and business disputes.