In Memoriam: Ernest “Clarke” Dummit
How do you measure a man’s greatness? Is it the legacy he leaves behind, the lives he touches, or the mark he makes on the world? Perhaps it is all of that. By every measure, Ernest “Clarke” Dummit was a giant among us, a man whose impact will echo through time.
Clarke was not only a beloved law partner, but an innovator in both law and business. Clarke’s vision and leadership left a lasting mark on our firm and the legal profession as a whole. Clarke had a genuine passion for the practice of law and deeply valued the relationships he built with colleagues and clients.
Clarke Dummit dedicated his life to defending others—first in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving with determination and integrity, then as a Wake Forest Law graduate, advocating over 39 years across courtrooms throughout the state. He helped thousands of clients, mentored hundreds of attorneys, shared legal insights with the community, and taught peers with honesty and warmth that made him a joy to be around. Clarke met every challenge with calmness, assertiveness, and kindness, firmly believing everyone deserved protection under the law—a hand he extended to all. He honored the struggle, expecting us to strive for integrity—not perfection—and to face mistakes with grace. To hide or blame was to wound the very integrity he cherished.
Clarke Dummit wasn’t just a mentor and friend, but a devoted father, grandfather, and loving husband. His ready laugh and stories, both from his experience in a courtroom and travels across the world, permitted him to nurture a workplace his employees could readily call home, a haven to invest in justice and the rule of law, and also in the joy of purpose and life’s adventures. Clarke built a firm that prized meaning over profit, a sanctuary balancing dedication with delight.
Though Clarke’s absence cuts deep, his spirit lingers—in every leather chair, every law book, every heart at Dummit Fradin. His passion for law, belief in the American Dream, and boundless compassion guide us still. His legacy of mentorship, kindness, and steadfast justice will shape our future. We’ll miss him dearly, but we’re proud to carry his vision forward.
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Careless & Reckless Driving Charge Dismissed
Attorney: Clarke Dummit Type of Case: Careless and Reckless Driving Case Result: Dismissed County: Yadkin County Our client in Yadkin County was in a single-car accident. She hydroplaned on some water, hit a guard rail, [...]
An Unexpected DWI Refusal Hearing Win
Type of Case: DWI Refusal Hearing at the DMV Case Result: Hearing Won! Attorney: Clarke Dummit When our firm takes on DWI defense cases we often look for the needle in the haystack. Many [...]
Client Wins Driver’s License Restoration Hearing
Type of Case: DMV Driver's License Restoration Hearing Result: License Reinstated Attorney: Clarke Dummit Dummit Fradin senior attorney Clarke Dummit represented a client on a driver's license restoration hearing at the DMV. Our client had [...]
★★★★★ – Kevin
“I don’t usually write reviews but I felt the need to leave one in this case. Clarke Dummit represented me in two separate cases, and I have no doubt that the outcome was the best possible solution that could have been reached. I always had direct communication with Clarke himself which is certainly not the experience I’ve had with any other attorneys in his field. If I ever had a question for him or the team I would have an immediate response within an hour or two. I knew I was in very capable hands from the initial meeting I had with him and the team. Clarke has gone above and beyond what was expected to take care of me and my case! Don’t look any further. You have your man!”
★★★★★ – SW
“LOOK NO FURTHER!!!! All I can say is THANK YOU!!! Clarke D. just gave me great news while assisting me with my ticket situation. There wasn’t much that needed to be done, buy they were able to work with getting me the information I needed FAST! I also can’t forget to mention Janet V. she made it easy and helped me to make the right decision choosing Dummit Fradin for my needs! I thank you both!!!”
★★★★★ – Cara
“I had a couple of unexplained fails on my interlock and thought it was best to hire a lawyer for my hearing. I found Mr. Dummit through google and am so glad that I did! We met a few times before the hearing and he was very thorough in guiding me through the process and explaining all of the work he was putting into my case. He ended up coming over prepared to the hearing, but we won! Most definitely would recommend!”
★★★★★ – Joe
“Clarke Dummit counseled my family through a minor situation that resulted in the case being dismissed. Knowing the facts of the case, he offered his guidance to us, even at the risk of us not needing his services. We greatly appreciate his honesty and solid advice.”
★★★★★ – Matthew
“I contacted this law firm seeking legal advice and was thoroughly impressed with the level of professionalism displayed. Upon reaching out to the firm, I spoke with Clarke Dummit and was provided an immediate answer for any concern. I would recommend this team to anyone seeking legal advice or representation.”
- Top 3 Best Rated DWI & DUI Lawyers 2024 | The American Registry
- AVVO Top Rated Lawyer | The American Registry – 2024
- AV Preeminent Rating – 2024
- AV Preeminent Rating – 2023
- America’s Most Honored Lawyers | Top 1% – 2022
- AV Preeminent Attorney | Judicial Edition – 2022
- AV Preeminent Rating – 2020
- AV Preeminent – 2018 Legal Leaders, Top Ranked Lawyers
- AI DUI/DWI Attorneys 10 Best Client Satisfaction
- North Carolina Advocates for Justice
- Academy of Trial Lawyers
- National Criminal Defense Association
- North Carolina Bar Association
