Charlotte, NC – Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC) is proud to announce that Larissa Mervin, Managing Attorney of their Charlotte office, has been named one of Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 award recipients for 2024. This accolade celebrates Larissa’s outstanding contributions to the non-profit world and her leadership within the legal community.
Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Awards annually celebrate 40 emerging leaders who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in their organizations, communities, and industries before reaching the age of 40. Larissa Mervin’s inclusion underscores her accomplishments and influence as a legal advocate, community leader, and visionary.
Expressing her gratitude for the award, Larissa remarked, “I’m profoundly grateful for this award and feel fortunate to receive recognition for doing meaningful work that I deeply care about. The fact that I get to do it alongside the most amazing friends, colleagues, and organizational partners – all of whom consistently empower me to be the attorney I am and are also deserving of recognition in their own right – is just icing on the cake! Thank you to the Charlotte Business Journal for the recognition, and to my friends at Legal Aid and our pro bono partners for the nomination. I am incredibly appreciative.”
Larissa’s professional journey is characterized by her commitment to serving marginalized communities. Her passion for family law and domestic violence advocacy ignited early in her career, leading her to roles at Triangle Family Services and subsequently at LANC, where she interned during law school. Throughout her tenure, Larissa has advocated for vulnerable individuals and families, providing crucial legal representation, mentorship, and support.
In her role as a domestic violence staff attorney, Larissa litigated civil domestic violence protective orders, civil no-contact orders, and temporary custody cases, all while training and supervising peers and interns. Her leadership and dedication propelled her through the ranks at LANC, where she now serves as Managing Attorney for the Charlotte office and Regional Managing Attorney for surrounding areas – achieving these roles at a young age.
Beyond her professional achievements, Larissa is dedicated to community involvement. She volunteers for the Heritage, Arts, and Cultural Committee in Harrisburg, North Carolina, promoting art and multicultural awareness. Additionally, Larissa is actively engaged with her church, leading high school girls and participating in outreach initiatives locally and internationally.
Larissa’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service continues to inspire her colleagues and peers.