Campbell Law 50th Anniversary Spotlight: The Honorable Damion L. McCullers ‘03
The Honorable Damion L. McCullers ’03 serves as a District Court Judge in Wake County’s 10th Judicial District (10F Seat 2), appointed to the bench in April 2021 by Gov. Roy Cooper. Born and raised in Wake County, McCullers graduated from Enloe High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from North Carolina Central University (NCCU). Before becoming a judge, he worked as an assistant district attorney, district court arbitrator and staff attorney for Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC). He later spent 15 years as a founding partner of McCullers & Whitaker (later Whitaker & Hamer), building a broad trial practice before transitioning to the bench. Today, he presides over civil, criminal, juvenile and domestic matters in Wake County District Court. He and his wife, Bene, live in Holly Springs with their three children, and he remains active in community organizations such as Helping Hand Mission and True Outreach Addiction and Behavioral Services.
Current role: Wake County District Court Judge
Why Campbell Law?
I wanted to be courtroom prepared on day one of becoming a member of the bar. My research for law schools that would foster an environment that would assist in surpassing that set goal always led me back to Campbell. I was courtroom ready on day one.
On practice
I was a trial lawyer for over 15 years prior to taking the bench. I was drawn to it the very first time my former law partner (Joshua Whitaker c/o 2003) and I were tasked with preparing opening statements in our trial advocacy class. I was hooked.
A lesson you learned
KNOW YOUR RULES OF EVIDENCE! I jest. However, one lesson Campbell taught me is that there is a global expectation of excellence when you are a Campbell lawyer. It is not only anticipated but expected that you will be the best.
People who shaped you
Two people come to mind instantly. My classmate Julianne (Booth) Rothert c/o 2002 literally saved me when I was drowning in Constitutional Law. She tutored me, pushed me and made me believe I could succeed when I was unsure. Also, Professor Anthony Baker shaped me more than I could ever thank him for. Professor Baker challenged me to change my way of thinking and apply that new lens not only to the law but my world in general.
Advice for current students
Find a mentor. I cannot stress this enough. Having a mentor will not only provide a trusted advisor to bounce questions off of, but also be refreshing to the mentor as they will have an outlet to pass on the valuable experience and wisdom they have acquired over the years.
Next 50 years
A continued tradition of excellence should define the next 50 years at Campbell Law.
Sidebar
What are you reading? I’m currently reading, ” Praying the Bible,” by Donald Whitney.
Most adventurous thing: Cliff diving in Jamaica is the most adventurous thing I have done to date.
Favorite Raleigh spot: Second Empire Restaurant is one of my favorites. The 1879 Victorian-style home has amazing aesthetics and the food is exquisite.
Proudest moment: My proudest moment outside of the birth of my children and marrying my wife would be being sworn in to serve by Justice Mike Morgan as Wake County’s 67th District Court Judge.