Kathryn Abernethy

Kathryn "Katie" Abernethy is a partner at Barrett & Farahany, LLP, based in Cary, North Carolina, where she offers experienced and strategic counsel in employment and labor law matters. With a practice focused on representing employees, she handles a wide range of workplace-related issues, including discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination and retaliation. She also advises clients on wage and hour disputes, executive compensation, employee misclassification and claims arising under the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Ms. Abernethy is known for her thorough legal analysis and client-centered approach. She works closely with individuals navigating complicated and often sensitive workplace disputes, offering clear guidance and strong advocacy. Her practice also includes handling matters involving hostile work environments, workplace violence, whistleblower claims, and mediation and arbitration proceedings. She is committed to helping clients understand their rights and pursue fair and effective resolutions.

Recognized for her skill and excellence, Ms. Abernethy is a board-certified employment law specialist in North Carolina, a distinction that reflects her depth of knowledge and professional achievement in the field. She is admitted to practice in Illinois and North Carolina, as well as before the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th and 5th Circuits.

Ms. Abernethy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Westminster College in 1995 and her Juris Doctor from Washington University School of Law in 2001. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys, the National Employment Lawyers Association and the North Carolina Bar Association.