team-member

Anne Debnam

Raleigh, NC

Licensed for 12 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child custody

Language

English

About

A.T. brings a wise and enduring perspective to her work as a Board Certified Family Law Specialist. An accomplished attorney with over a decade of experience in family law, she’s passionate about counseling clients toward outcomes that foster new beginnings – helping clients not just finalize an ‘ending’ but conceive a new chapter. It’s no wonder she develops lasting relationships with clients long after their cases have concluded.A.T. confesses, she feels a profound responsibility to serve the best interests of her clients as their “Counselor at Law.” To say she takes the “counselor” part of her law degree seriously is an understatement. She cares deeply about her clients. She recognizes the pressure they’re experiencing – the emotional toll, the anxiety of having to hire a lawyer, the legal process, all of it – can feel overwhelming and isolating. For this reason, A.T. approaches each case with a dutiful purpose – she’s thorough in every detail but never loses sight of the bigger picture and what it means for her client. She believes strong advocacy begins with creating a safe space for clients to express themselves – she listens to their needs, goals, and fears. Clients frequently describe her as an agent for change – and while that may be a moniker, she humbly accepts; she would be the first to tell you that her clients are the real heroes.Known for her honesty and compassion, A.T.’s a firm believer in being candid and upfront with clients. With clarity and reassurance, she artfully guides clients through every step of the legal process. Logically and methodically, she helps them “see around corners” – to know what’s ahead – for their peace of mind. This philosophy informs her counsel in every matter– from simple, uncontested divorces to complex multi-million dollar equitable distribution cases, from cases involving closely held businesses to high conflict child custody cases. She has been a Board Certified Family Law Specialist by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization since 2014, and a certified family financial mediator through the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission since 2018.A gifted attorney with a reputation for excellence, when asked what she enjoys most about being a lawyer, A.T. states, “creating and maintaining client relationships is what I truly enjoy. If I can help someone navigate one of the hardest times in their lives and have them come out in a better place, then I have done my job.”A.T. is a native of Zebulon, North Carolina. She enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

Smith Debnam Narron Drake Saintsing & Myers, LLP4601 Six Forks Road, Suite 400Raleigh, NC, 276094601 Six Forks Road, Suite 400Raleigh, NC, 27609

Office: N/A

Website: N/A

Reviews

anonymous
July 8, 2016

Anne Debnam is a smart, thorough attorney! Her paperwork and language in her documents are the absolute best! When you need a smart strategy, thorough paperwork, a person who really advocates for you - there is no one better. She is also excellent in litigation --- she was well prepared, and that created an advantage to me and my outcome.

anonymous
July 8, 2016

A.T. Debnam and the Mueller Law firm could not have done a better job for me in a very difficult time. They were always available to answer so many questions and advise me what to do. They were always professional and were there for me throughout the whole process. I could not have found a better firm to work with. Thank You!!!

John
July 8, 2016

I feel extremely fortunate to have chosen AT Debnam and the Mueller Law Firm to represent me during my recent divorce. Not only did everyone treat me with exceptional professionalism at all times, they also made me feel more of a friend and less of a client. During such a difficult emotional time this meant a great deal. They not only excel at all legal aspects, but they also understand the personal turmoil involved. It was truly appreciated. AT was just magnificent at handling my specific case. Thoroughly prepared always, of course, and wholly focused on what was best for me. One of her greatest strengths, in my opinion, was her capacity to give me strong, rational advice and then listen to me when I perhaps wanted to do something a little different. This shows that she cares about the person and their situation first and foremost. Who wouldn’t want that when going through this ordeal? This sets her apart. From the professional approach to the personal touch, I could not recommend anyone higher than AT and my entire experience with the firm as a whole was exceptional.

Larry
September 22, 2015

I can not say enough good things about A.T. and her staff. They handled my case professionally and personally from the very first phone call. Prompt, the response time was incredible. I never waited more that 24 hours to get a response to a question. We were able to arrange an out of court settlement in record time. Thanks to the guidance from this firm, all parties involved left satisfied. Without question I would recommend A.T. and this firm.

anonymous
January 2, 2015

During the past several years, I have worked with Ms. Debnam on finalizing my divorce. She has always been prompt in responding to my concerns and is infinitely patient with all the minutiae involved in a divorce. I found her to be thorough and easy to talk to during our meetings. She displays sympathy when facing complex emotions but keeps the work on track throughout the process. I have complete trust in her and feel that she has left no stone unturned looking out for my interests.

anonymous
December 29, 2014

It was difficult for me to stay focused and resolve many of the divorce related issues, especially child custody. AT provided me with necessary information so that I could make informed decisions. I felt comfortable contacting her when I needed even more information and more clarity. She was always responsive and reminded me of all possible scenarios and potential outcomes. She helped me to understand how family court operated and was very detailed but communicated in "non lawyer" language so that I never felt lost. I appreciated her honesty and not just telling me what I wanted to hear because that helped me to be better prepared for the road ahead. It was comforting to know that while I was in a very unwanted and hurtful situation that I could trust her advisement. I am glad that I consulted her on many occasions as I could have hurt my case had I not thought to reach out to her about next steps. Now that the case is over I can think back that in a very emotionally consuming and devastating life event, AT and her team were super skilled at keeping me focused in my troubled time. I didn't feel like I was just another person going through a divorce. I always felt like someone was listening and understood my concerns and I always felt well represented. In the courtroom A.T.'s preparation was very evident. When I saw all the boxes of evidence and more, I knew she had done her homework. I was satisfied with the outcome and can now begin the next chapter of my life. If I need her I intend to call on her again and would recommend her should anyone I know have an unfortunate domestic matter requiring legal representation.

Laura
December 19, 2014

In many situations we don't know where to turn to for help. In the case of family law I went to Anne Thurston and she was incredible. Turning a bad situation into something that we stepped through and were able to resolve in my best interest and that of my family. I cannot say enough good things about having worked with her. I would recommend her to everyone if you want to ensure that your best interests are maintained. Her knowledge of the law and ability to help was incredible. You will not find better. I truly felt she maintained a vested interest in myself personally. She always answered any and every question. Amazing is the best word to describe her.

anonymous
July 8, 2016

Anne Debnam is a smart, thorough attorney! Her paperwork and language in her documents are the absolute best! When you need a smart strategy, thorough paperwork, a person who really advocates for you - there is no one better. She is also excellent in litigation --- she was well prepared, and that created an advantage to me and my outcome.

anonymous
July 8, 2016

A.T. Debnam and the Mueller Law firm could not have done a better job for me in a very difficult time. They were always available to answer so many questions and advise me what to do. They were always professional and were there for me throughout the whole process. I could not have found a better firm to work with. Thank You!!!

John
July 8, 2016

I feel extremely fortunate to have chosen AT Debnam and the Mueller Law Firm to represent me during my recent divorce. Not only did everyone treat me with exceptional professionalism at all times, they also made me feel more of a friend and less of a client. During such a difficult emotional time this meant a great deal. They not only excel at all legal aspects, but they also understand the personal turmoil involved. It was truly appreciated. AT was just magnificent at handling my specific case. Thoroughly prepared always, of course, and wholly focused on what was best for me. One of her greatest strengths, in my opinion, was her capacity to give me strong, rational advice and then listen to me when I perhaps wanted to do something a little different. This shows that she cares about the person and their situation first and foremost. Who wouldn’t want that when going through this ordeal? This sets her apart. From the professional approach to the personal touch, I could not recommend anyone higher than AT and my entire experience with the firm as a whole was exceptional.

Larry
September 22, 2015

I can not say enough good things about A.T. and her staff. They handled my case professionally and personally from the very first phone call. Prompt, the response time was incredible. I never waited more that 24 hours to get a response to a question. We were able to arrange an out of court settlement in record time. Thanks to the guidance from this firm, all parties involved left satisfied. Without question I would recommend A.T. and this firm.

anonymous
January 2, 2015

During the past several years, I have worked with Ms. Debnam on finalizing my divorce. She has always been prompt in responding to my concerns and is infinitely patient with all the minutiae involved in a divorce. I found her to be thorough and easy to talk to during our meetings. She displays sympathy when facing complex emotions but keeps the work on track throughout the process. I have complete trust in her and feel that she has left no stone unturned looking out for my interests.

anonymous
December 29, 2014

It was difficult for me to stay focused and resolve many of the divorce related issues, especially child custody. AT provided me with necessary information so that I could make informed decisions. I felt comfortable contacting her when I needed even more information and more clarity. She was always responsive and reminded me of all possible scenarios and potential outcomes. She helped me to understand how family court operated and was very detailed but communicated in "non lawyer" language so that I never felt lost. I appreciated her honesty and not just telling me what I wanted to hear because that helped me to be better prepared for the road ahead. It was comforting to know that while I was in a very unwanted and hurtful situation that I could trust her advisement. I am glad that I consulted her on many occasions as I could have hurt my case had I not thought to reach out to her about next steps. Now that the case is over I can think back that in a very emotionally consuming and devastating life event, AT and her team were super skilled at keeping me focused in my troubled time. I didn't feel like I was just another person going through a divorce. I always felt like someone was listening and understood my concerns and I always felt well represented. In the courtroom A.T.'s preparation was very evident. When I saw all the boxes of evidence and more, I knew she had done her homework. I was satisfied with the outcome and can now begin the next chapter of my life. If I need her I intend to call on her again and would recommend her should anyone I know have an unfortunate domestic matter requiring legal representation.

Laura
December 19, 2014

In many situations we don't know where to turn to for help. In the case of family law I went to Anne Thurston and she was incredible. Turning a bad situation into something that we stepped through and were able to resolve in my best interest and that of my family. I cannot say enough good things about having worked with her. I would recommend her to everyone if you want to ensure that your best interests are maintained. Her knowledge of the law and ability to help was incredible. You will not find better. I truly felt she maintained a vested interest in myself personally. She always answered any and every question. Amazing is the best word to describe her.

anonymous
July 8, 2016

Anne Debnam is a smart, thorough attorney! Her paperwork and language in her documents are the absolute best! When you need a smart strategy, thorough paperwork, a person who really advocates for you - there is no one better. She is also excellent in litigation --- she was well prepared, and that created an advantage to me and my outcome.

anonymous
July 8, 2016

A.T. Debnam and the Mueller Law firm could not have done a better job for me in a very difficult time. They were always available to answer so many questions and advise me what to do. They were always professional and were there for me throughout the whole process. I could not have found a better firm to work with. Thank You!!!

John
July 8, 2016

I feel extremely fortunate to have chosen AT Debnam and the Mueller Law Firm to represent me during my recent divorce. Not only did everyone treat me with exceptional professionalism at all times, they also made me feel more of a friend and less of a client. During such a difficult emotional time this meant a great deal. They not only excel at all legal aspects, but they also understand the personal turmoil involved. It was truly appreciated. AT was just magnificent at handling my specific case. Thoroughly prepared always, of course, and wholly focused on what was best for me. One of her greatest strengths, in my opinion, was her capacity to give me strong, rational advice and then listen to me when I perhaps wanted to do something a little different. This shows that she cares about the person and their situation first and foremost. Who wouldn’t want that when going through this ordeal? This sets her apart. From the professional approach to the personal touch, I could not recommend anyone higher than AT and my entire experience with the firm as a whole was exceptional.

Larry
September 22, 2015

I can not say enough good things about A.T. and her staff. They handled my case professionally and personally from the very first phone call. Prompt, the response time was incredible. I never waited more that 24 hours to get a response to a question. We were able to arrange an out of court settlement in record time. Thanks to the guidance from this firm, all parties involved left satisfied. Without question I would recommend A.T. and this firm.

anonymous
January 2, 2015

During the past several years, I have worked with Ms. Debnam on finalizing my divorce. She has always been prompt in responding to my concerns and is infinitely patient with all the minutiae involved in a divorce. I found her to be thorough and easy to talk to during our meetings. She displays sympathy when facing complex emotions but keeps the work on track throughout the process. I have complete trust in her and feel that she has left no stone unturned looking out for my interests.

anonymous
December 29, 2014

It was difficult for me to stay focused and resolve many of the divorce related issues, especially child custody. AT provided me with necessary information so that I could make informed decisions. I felt comfortable contacting her when I needed even more information and more clarity. She was always responsive and reminded me of all possible scenarios and potential outcomes. She helped me to understand how family court operated and was very detailed but communicated in "non lawyer" language so that I never felt lost. I appreciated her honesty and not just telling me what I wanted to hear because that helped me to be better prepared for the road ahead. It was comforting to know that while I was in a very unwanted and hurtful situation that I could trust her advisement. I am glad that I consulted her on many occasions as I could have hurt my case had I not thought to reach out to her about next steps. Now that the case is over I can think back that in a very emotionally consuming and devastating life event, AT and her team were super skilled at keeping me focused in my troubled time. I didn't feel like I was just another person going through a divorce. I always felt like someone was listening and understood my concerns and I always felt well represented. In the courtroom A.T.'s preparation was very evident. When I saw all the boxes of evidence and more, I knew she had done her homework. I was satisfied with the outcome and can now begin the next chapter of my life. If I need her I intend to call on her again and would recommend her should anyone I know have an unfortunate domestic matter requiring legal representation.

Laura
December 19, 2014

In many situations we don't know where to turn to for help. In the case of family law I went to Anne Thurston and she was incredible. Turning a bad situation into something that we stepped through and were able to resolve in my best interest and that of my family. I cannot say enough good things about having worked with her. I would recommend her to everyone if you want to ensure that your best interests are maintained. Her knowledge of the law and ability to help was incredible. You will not find better. I truly felt she maintained a vested interest in myself personally. She always answered any and every question. Amazing is the best word to describe her.