Ward and Smith'sCody Worrellswas recently featured on the NCBarBlog in a profile titled"From Airborne to Litigation: How Cody Worrells Learned to Love the Work."
The article follows Cody's path from the U.S. Army to Ward and Smith, where he now manages litigation staff across multiple offices while also teaching aspiring paralegals at Cape Fear Community College.
Cody's legal career began in an unexpected way. After deciding college "was not for me," he joined the Army and selected paralegal work from a list of career options because it seemed like the "least bad choice." He later served with the 82nd Airborne Division, 3rd Special Forces Group, and 4th Psychological Operations Group, gaining years of experience in the military legal system.
In the feature, Cody reflects on how civilian litigation helped him reconnect with the work in a meaningful way.
"You're fighting for what's best for your client."
He also offers a candid look at the demands of the paralegal profession:
"There's nothing lax about our jobs. You have to really want it."
That same mindset shapes how he teaches his students. Cody stresses the importance of precision, accountability, and following directions, noting:
"As a paralegal, you have to follow instructions to a T."
The profile also highlights Cody's views on technology in the legal industry, including artificial intelligence:
"AI will only replace you if you use AI to replace you."
From military service to litigation leadership, teaching, and professional certification, Cody's story reflects the discipline, commitment, and care he brings to his work every day.
Read the full NCBarBlogfeature to learn more about Cody's journey, his work at Ward and Smith, and the lessons he shares with the next generation of paralegals.