A popular attorney in Charlotte died today, he represented Mayor Patrick Cannon during a corruption arrest
Charlotte civil rights lawyer James Ferguson, 82, died on July 21, 2025 in Charlotte, NC. His attorney power helped to desegregate schools nationwide. Follow Charlotte Alerts on Instagram.
James fought many civil rights cases. He also provided criminal defense to ex Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon. Patrick took bribery money from an undercover FBI agent.
Patrick was found guilty and is a convicted felon, just like Donald Trump.
James died from a long time illness in the hospital. James had three children, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Mr. Ferguson’s wife Barbara died of cancer in 2022. James is from Asheville and became a attorney just like his father to bring racial change in America.
Mr. Ferguson co-founded North Carolina’s first interracial law firm, he also purchased the Excelsior Club in west Charlotte at one time.
Mr. Ferguson organized civil rights protests as a teenager.
