About S.
S. McKinley "Ken" Gray III: Leading Labor and Employment Attorney in New Bern
Ken Gray III is a nationally recognized and highly respected legal advocate dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and businesses facing complex employment law challenges. As the leader of the Labor and Employment Practice Group, Ken brings decades of experience and a deep understanding of the law to every case, consistently achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. From navigating intricate discrimination claims and wrongful termination disputes to securing just compensation and ensuring compliance with labor laws, Ken provides strategic legal counsel and aggressive representation across a wide range of employment matters.
Ken’s commitment to his clients is matched by his unwavering dedication to the legal profession. He is frequently sought after as a speaker and expert on critical employment law issues, including discrimination, workplace retaliation, workers’ compensation, and wage and hour compliance. His expertise has earned him consistent recognition as a “preeminent” attorney by his peers – a designation awarded to only a select few – and he serves in prominent leadership roles with numerous civic and legal organizations, reflecting his commitment to serving his community.
Ken’s background includes a proven track record of success representing clients across diverse industries, from small start-up companies to Fortune 500 corporations. He skillfully handles litigation involving all forms of employment discrimination – including race, gender, age, religion, and disability – wrongful discharge, and breach of employment contracts. His ability to meticulously investigate complex legal issues, develop strong case strategies, and effectively advocate for his clients in court has established him as a formidable opponent and a trusted legal partner.
Beyond his courtroom expertise, Ken is deeply engaged in his community. He served as the former president of the Craven County Bar Association, a two-term president of the Board of Directors for the United Way of Coastal Carolina, and currently serves as Chairman of the Deacons of First Baptist Church of New Bern. These roles demonstrate his commitment to ethical leadership and community betterment.
Ken Gray III’s legal philosophy centers on providing proactive and strategic legal counsel. He understands the significant impact employment disputes can have on individuals and businesses, and he is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and advocating for the best possible resolution. His extensive experience and extensive network allow him to provide exceptional representation, mitigating risk and protecting his client's interests at every stage.
Practice Areas
- Litigation - Labor and Employment
- Workers’ Compensation Law - Employers
- Commercial Litigation
- Workers’ Compensation Law
- COVID-19 Focus
Awards & Recognition
- Labor and Employment Star – Benchmark Litigation (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021)
- “The Best Lawyers in America” (2009-2017 & 2019-2024)
- “Legal Elite” – Business North Carolina (2010, 2012, 2013-2017, 2022)
- Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2009
Affiliations
- Craven County Bar Association (Former President)
- United Way of Coastal Carolina (Former Board of Directors President)
- First Baptist Church of New Bern (Chairman of the Deacons)
- Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2009
Contact Information
City: New Bern, State: North Carolina, Country: United States
Contact Ken Gray III today to discuss your legal needs and explore how his expertise can benefit you.
Professional Affiliations
Awards & Recognition
- Recognized: Litigation - Labor and Employment
- Recognized: Workers' Compensation Law - Employers
- Practice Area: Commercial Litigation
- Practice Area: Workers' Compensation Law
- Special Focus: COVID-19
- Labor and Employment Star, Benchmark Litigation, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
- The Best Lawyers in America, 2009-2017, and 2019-2024
- "Legal Elite," Business North Carolina, 2010, 2012, and 2013-2017, 2022