Hugh R. Overholt

Government Relations Attorney
Ward and Smith, P.A.
Email hro@wardandsmith.com
252.672.5462 Fax 252.672.5477
Post Office Box 867, New Bern, NC 28563-0867

Hugh is a retired Major General of the U.S. Army and served on the North Carolina State Board of Transportation from 2009-2022.  His practice experience encompasses federal and state government affairs.  Hugh advises clients on government contracts, regulatory, and legislative issues, and all aspects of military law.  He is experienced in federal administrative issues, including representation before all United States government agencies. 

Prior to joining the firm, he served as The Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Army from 1985 to 1989. Hugh also served as Assistant Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1985.

Education

  • National Defense University, 1976
  • Command and General Staff College, 1969
  • J.D., University of Arkansas, 1957. Comments Editor, University of Arkansas Law Review.
  • A.B., University of Arkansas, 1955

Professional and Community Affiliations

  • Arkansas Bar Association
  • District of Columbia Bar Association
  • Havelock Chamber of Commerce - Military Affairs Committee
  • National Defense Transportation Association
  • New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce - Military Alliance
  • North Carolina Bar Association

Admitted to Practice

  • North Carolina, 1989
  • District of Columbia, 1988
  • Arkansas, 1957
  • All state courts in Arkansas
  • All state courts in North Carolina
  • United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit
  • United States Supreme Court

An attorney‑client relationship may only be established through direct attorney‑to‑client communication that is confirmed by the execution of an engagement agreement. The content of any unsolicited email sent to Ward and Smith, P.A., or to any of its attorneys at an email address available on this website, will not create an attorney‑client relationship and the contents of such unsolicited email shall not be considered confidential. Therefore, do not use this website or the email addresses available on this website to provide confidential information about yourself or a legal matter to Ward and Smith or any of its attorneys.

  • American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Legal Elite Business North Carolina 2024
  • Super Lawyers 2021
  • Recognized by Best Lawyers 2025
  • U.S. News Best Lawyers 2025
  • 2024 Chambers USA

Subscribe to Ward and Smith