Patrick R. Anstead developed his reputation as one of the most sought-after litigation attorneys in Southeastern, North Carolina by prioritizing cases involving the violation of constitutional rights and catastrophic personal injury. If you have been charged with a crime, injured at work, or been a victim of police misconduct, call The Richardson Firm and ask for a free consultation with Patrick Anstead to protect your rights.

While studying law, Mr. Anstead clerked with the Craven County District Attorney’s Office as well as a private firm doing post-conviction relief and civil rights work. After law school, Mr. Anstead developed his reputation as an elite lawyer by taking cases that other attorneys turned down. Patrick has litigated high-profile cases and worked tirelessly to solve his clients’ most challenging problems. Mr. Anstead has won cases against health care systems, multi-state insurance companies, and the United States government. In the fall of 2022, Mr. Anstead worked on behalf of a prisoner pro bono to successfully mediate a civil rights claim before a United States Magistrate Judge against the law enforcement officers who illegally raided and searched his client’s home.


Mr. Anstead is admitted to practice before the North Carolina Supreme Court, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and the United States Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.  Mr. Anstead is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in International Affairs. He earned his law degree from the North Carolina Central University School of Law.  Mr. Anstead is an active member of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice and he currently serves as the Vice-President of the Cumberland County Bar Association.  Mr. Anstead and his fiancée are parishioners at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and enjoy spending their free time in the mountains of North Carolina.  

Areas of Practice

Professional Associations & Memberships

  • North Carolina State Bar
  • Cumberland County Bar Association – Board of Directors (Member)
  • North Carolina Advocates for Justice

Client Reviews

“The Richardson law firm is outstanding! From their courteous and efficient office staff to their knowledgeable lawyers. Both in accident injury and criminal disputes, we were lucky to have them represent our family. Their kindness and...”

Gloria D.

“I highly recommend this firm if you're looking for an attorney in Cumberland County. My traffic matter was handled within one week of receiving my citation. You just cannot beat that. Attorney Patrick Anstead is really good at his job and Melissa is very...

E.B.

“If you are looking for an Attorney for handling Military reasons for your loved one, I Highly recommend The Richardson Law Firm. I cannot not thank Attorney Kris Poppe and staff enough for handling matters for my son. May my review show my forever...”

Elaine M.

I was facing a serious felony charge looking at 20 years. As soon as I stepped in the office, the staff were very polite and professional and took care of my case as if it was their own. I ended up walking away with a misdemeanor and a year probation. This law...

Smooth O.

This law firm is the best! Thank you Mr. Poppy & his assistant Melissa for handling my case with compassion and kindness. I could always call Melissa and Kris was there anytime I needed to see him. It was a very serious case, thank God I had someone on my side...

Penny B.

Being in need of legal representation, I contacted Mr. Matthew Richardson after he was recommended to me by a friend. Mr. Richardson and his paralegal, Ms. Codia DiTarana-Evans were pleasant to work with and did an excellent job taking care of my legal needs.

Karen B.

Matt Richardson was extremely helpful in giving legal advice. He had our best interest in mind. He was detail oriented, and made us a priority. I highly recommend his practice for all legal matters big or small.

Elizabeth T.

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