Paula Yost is a passionate advocate dedicated to protecting what matters most to her clients. With a diverse practice that encompasses trademark brand protection, estate planning, and safeguarding individual mental health, she brings a unique blend of legal expertise and compassionate care to her work.
Paula is a graduate of Virginia Tech with her B.S. in Microbiology, minor in Chemistry and B.A. in English. She earned her JD at Widener University School of Law (now Delaware Law School) in 2005, and received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health from Lenoir-Rhyne University in 2015.
Paula opened the Law Office of Paula J. Yost – The Country Law Shack in her hometown of Mount Pleasant, North Carolina. A proud native of Cabarrus County, the office is steeped in Paula’s family history, being located in the home of her great-grandmother, Irene Walker. With ancestral ties to the area dating back to the American Revolution, Paula’s deep connection to her community is a cornerstone of her practice.
Practice Areas
Paula is licensed to practice law in North Carolina, Georgia, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office. A significant portion of her practice focuses on Trademark prosecution before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, where she has successfully prosecuted over 1,000 brands. With over a decade of experience in Trademark law, Paula is adept at navigating the complexities of brand protection. Another large portion of her practice focuses on estate law and probate.
Beyond her main practice areas, Paula has a profound commitment to what she terms “legal social work.” Any type of work where an individual’s mental well-being meets the law is an area where Paula can add value. In this role, she frequently serves as a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem for individuals who are mentally ill or deemed potentially incompetent.
Paula’s dedication to understanding the intersection of law and mental health led her to obtain a Masters in Clinical Mental Health from Lenoir-Rhyne University. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician, she provides counseling services, often employing an existential approach to therapy.
Community Involvement and Recognition
Paula has served as the chair of the Cabarrus County Child Protection and Fatality Team (CPFT) for more than a decade. She is also a member of the Virginia Tech Distinguished Alumni Board.
In 2015, Paula was presented the Young Careerist Award by the Concord-Cabarrus Business and Professional Women’s Club and was also presented the award on the state-level by the Business and Professional Women of North Carolina.
In 2019, the Cabarrus County Partnership for Children presented its annual Anne Laukaitis Champion for Children Award to Paula for her passion for helping children in our community. She was also recognized in 2024 with the Karen W. Ponder Leadership Award, a state-level recognition by NC Smart Start, for her exceptional leadership that has resulted in bettering the lives of young children and families in our state.
Personal Background
Paula is a certified yoga instructor and an overall fitness nut. She enjoys working out, spending time with her family, and getting involved at her children’s school.
Jessica Goldstein is a dedicated attorney who brings a unique blend of legal expertise to her work.
A proud native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Jessica earned her B.A. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Communication from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2010. Following graduation, she worked as a Forensic Services Technician at the Winston-Salem Police Department for two years. Her combined love for the law and passion for sports then led her to Marquette University Law School, where she concentrated her studies in sports law and earned a Sports Law Certificate from the National Sports Law Institute.
Upon graduating from Marquette University Law School, she worked at the Wisconsin Supreme Court as a Law Clerk for one term, instilling Jessica with a larger passion for research, writing, and answer finding. She then completed a year-long internship with the Orlando Magic, which helped hone Jessica’s contract drafting skills and showed her the inner workings of a professional sports franchise.
Practice Areas
Jessica is licensed to practice law in North Carolina and Wisconsin. Her primary focus includes contract law, where she expertly navigates the complexities to ensure her clients’ agreements are sound, enforceable, and in their best interests. Jessica’s secondary focus is project management. She has been at the forefront of developing the processes, organizational structure, workflow, and day-to-day management of the firm’s dive into the probate process for major wrongful death class action lawsuits. Additionally, she assists clients with estate planning, wills, and trusts, providing peace of mind through meticulous planning and protection of their assets for future generations.
Community Involvement and Recognition
While in law school, Jessica served on the Marquette Law Review and was an Executive Editor of the Marquette Sports Law Review. During her internship in Orlando, she was recognized as the Intern Volunteer of the Year Award for completing the most community service hours in the organization.
Today, Jessica contributes significantly to youth sports in Stanly County, coaching futsal for the South Stanly Futsal Club, serving as Director of Goalkeeping and soccer coach for the MatriX Futbol Club, and refereeing and coaching in the Stanly County Recreational Soccer League. Her dedication extends to the Foothill Soccer Referee Association, where she also serves as a referee for competitions at the high school and middle school levels in the area.
Personal
In her free time, Jessica enjoys coaching and refereeing soccer and futsal, working in the press box for the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, and spending quality time with her mom and dog. She is an avid supporter of Charlotte FC and the Atlanta Braves, often attending games and immersing herself in the passionate community that sports fandom provides.
Jessica Goldstein
Attorney
Jessica Goldstein
Attorney
Jessica Goldstein is a dedicated attorney who brings a unique blend of legal expertise to her work.
A proud native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Jessica earned her B.A. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Communication from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2010. Following graduation, she worked as a Forensic Services Technician at the Winston-Salem Police Department for two years. Her combined love for the law and passion for sports then led her to Marquette University Law School, where she concentrated her studies in sports law and earned a Sports Law Certificate from the National Sports Law Institute.
Upon graduating from Marquette University Law School, she worked at the Wisconsin Supreme Court as a Law Clerk for one term, instilling Jessica with a larger passion for research, writing, and answer finding. She then completed a year-long internship with the Orlando Magic, which helped hone Jessica’s contract drafting skills and showed her the inner workings of a professional sports franchise.
Practice Areas
Jessica is licensed to practice law in North Carolina and Wisconsin. Her primary focus includes contract law, where she expertly navigates the complexities to ensure her clients’ agreements are sound, enforceable, and in their best interests. Jessica’s secondary focus is project management. She has been at the forefront of developing the processes, organizational structure, workflow, and day-to-day management of the firm’s dive into the probate process for major wrongful death class action lawsuits. Additionally, she assists clients with estate planning, wills, and trusts, providing peace of mind through meticulous planning and protection of their assets for future generations.
Community Involvement and Recognition
While in law school, Jessica served on the Marquette Law Review and was an Executive Editor of the Marquette Sports Law Review. During her internship in Orlando, she was recognized as the Intern Volunteer of the Year Award for completing the most community service hours in the organization.
Today, Jessica contributes significantly to youth sports in Stanly County, coaching futsal for the South Stanly Futsal Club, serving as Director of Goalkeeping and soccer coach for the MatriX Futbol Club, and refereeing and coaching in the Stanly County Recreational Soccer League. Her dedication extends to the Foothill Soccer Referee Association, where she also serves as a referee for competitions at the high school and middle school levels in the area.
Personal
In her free time, Jessica enjoys coaching and refereeing soccer and futsal, working in the press box for the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, and spending quality time with her mom and dog. She is an avid supporter of Charlotte FC and the Atlanta Braves, often attending games and immersing herself in the passionate community that sports fandom provides.
Coan Ritchie is an experienced Paralegal with a background in law that spans more than a decade.
Born and raised in Concord, Coan graduated from Western Carolina University, with honors, in 2010 with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. She began working for the Cabarrus County Clerk of Court in the Estates Division in 2012, spending nine years serving the citizens of Cabarrus County as a Deputy Clerk of Court and later as an Assistant Clerk of Court.
Practice Areas
Coan is committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support to every client. Whether you are dealing with the intricacies of an estate, the joy of an adoption, or any other legal matter in her areas of expertise, Coan is here to help.
With over 12 years of experience, including a decade working with various attorneys in the area and the last three years as a paralegal at our firm, Coan is a seasoned professional in her field. She specializes in estates, guardianships, adoptions, and name changes. Her expertise in these areas allows her to provide invaluable assistance to clients during some of the most significant moments of their lives.
For Coan, the most rewarding part of her career is being able to support clients during times of need. She finds great fulfillment in taking on the legal burdens so clients can focus on grieving if they lost a loved one, celebrating, or simply moving forward without the added stress of legal complexities.
Personal Background
When she’s not at work, Coan enjoys delving into true crime podcasts and getting lost in a good fantasy novel. She also loves tracing her family’s genealogy and is known as the ‘family historian.’ Coan cherishes time spent with her husband and their two sons.
Bailey Parker is a dedicated paralegal with a wealth of knowledge and compassion for her role.
Born and raised in Concord, Bailey is deeply rooted in her community. She is a graduate of Mount Pleasant High School and pursued her Associate Degree at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, then continued her education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
Practice Areas
Bailey’s passion for law stems from her desire to help the public and her belief in the importance of understanding state laws. She is particularly drawn to estate law, finding it both detailed and fascinating. Although she did not have extensive experience in estate law initially, her background as a youth counselor at Jackson Training School provided her with valuable skills in communication, patience, and empathy—essential traits for her current role. Her quick learning and dedication have made her an invaluable asset to the Law Office of Paula J. Yost, where she has excelled in handling complex estates.
The most rewarding parts of Bailey’s career so far include all the Camp Lejeune estates that have been opened with the firm as well as how much she has learned in the past year alone. She enjoys having the opportunity to assist clients with empathy and trust, helping them navigate challenging situations. Her work not only protects clients emotionally and financially but also allows her to continuously learn and grow in her field.
Bailey’s commitment to helping others, coupled with her enthusiasm for law and continuous learning, makes her a dedicated and compassionate professional. She looks forward to many more years of serving her community and making a difference in the lives of those she helps.
Personal Background
Outside of her professional life, Bailey is an avid traveler, runner, and animal lover. She enjoys spending her spare time outdoors, hiking and kayaking with her dog, Amos. Bailey is passionate about long-distance running and participates in numerous 5k races, with a half marathon and two 10k races on her upcoming schedule. She also cherishes moments spent laughing and enjoying life with her friends and family.
Bailey Parker is a dedicated paralegal with a wealth of knowledge and compassion for her role.
Born and raised in Concord, Bailey is deeply rooted in her community. She is a graduate of Mount Pleasant High School and pursued her Associate Degree at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, then continued her education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
Practice Areas
Bailey’s passion for law stems from her desire to help the public and her belief in the importance of understanding state laws. She is particularly drawn to estate law, finding it both detailed and fascinating. Although she did not have extensive experience in estate law initially, her background as a youth counselor at Jackson Training School provided her with valuable skills in communication, patience, and empathy—essential traits for her current role. Her quick learning and dedication have made her an invaluable asset to the Law Office of Paula J. Yost, where she has excelled in handling complex estates.
The most rewarding parts of Bailey’s career so far include all the Camp Lejeune estates that have been opened with the firm as well as how much she has learned in the past year alone. She enjoys having the opportunity to assist clients with empathy and trust, helping them navigate challenging situations. Her work not only protects clients emotionally and financially but also allows her to continuously learn and grow in her field.
Bailey’s commitment to helping others, coupled with her enthusiasm for law and continuous learning, makes her a dedicated and compassionate professional. She looks forward to many more years of serving her community and making a difference in the lives of those she helps.
Personal Background
Outside of her professional life, Bailey is an avid traveler, runner, and animal lover. She enjoys spending her spare time outdoors, hiking and kayaking with her dog, Amos. Bailey is passionate about long-distance running and participates in numerous 5k races, with a half marathon and two 10k races on her upcoming schedule. She also cherishes moments spent laughing and enjoying life with her friends and family.
Originally from Marshall, North Carolina, Jacob Shelton has strong ties to the state. His journey took him from his hometown to Cullowhee, where he attended Western Carolina University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Law, along with a minor in Economics.
Professional Background
Jacob’s pursuit of law continued at the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University. There, he graduated Cum Laude in 2018 and distinguished himself as a committed member of the Law Review throughout his time at the university. His academic achievements reflect his passion for the legal field and his dedication to excellence.
Driven by a lifelong interest in history, politics, and the art of debate, Jacob’s decision to enter the legal profession was influenced by his undergraduate professors, who recognized his aptitude for the field. With five years of experience assisting attorneys across various legal domains, Jacob brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen analytical mind to his role at the Law Office of Paula J. Yost.
Jacob’s future ambitions include obtaining his license to practice law, with a particular interest in civil litigation. He is also drawn to estates, real estate, family law, and business law, reflecting his broad legal interests and versatile skill set.
Personal Background
When he’s not immersed in legal analysis, Jacob enjoys reading, playing disc golf, and spending quality time with friends. His move to Mount Pleasant marks the beginning of an exciting chapter at the Country Law Shack, where his expertise and passion for law are sure to make a significant impact.
Walter Austin’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in his military background.
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Walter joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1984 and served Honorably until 1988. He later served in the Tennessee Army National Guard as a Crew Chief on an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter. During his time in the National Guard, Operation Desert Storm broke out. Thankfully, he was never deployed. Walter was awarded a National Defense Service Medal for his service.
Professional Background
Walter earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and an Associate Degree in Applied Science and Information Systems Securities from Stanly Community College.
In 2015, Walter began working at the Law Office of Paula J. Yost as Paula’s Legal Assistant. His dedication and hard work enabled him to work his way up to becoming the Practice Manager where his current duties include HR duties, payroll, billing, and other tasks as needed. His most important duty; however, is being the office dad to the team.
Community Involvement
Walter is an active volunteer with SEAkers Aquatic Adventures, Inc., a local non-profit that focuses on helping at-risk youth, as well as JRTOC students from local high schools. He was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2019 for his volunteer service at various activities in 2018 and 2019. Since his original open water certification in 2018 with his daughter, he has obtained his Nitrox, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver certifications. He now also holds a professional dive status as a NAUI Dive Master.
Personal Background
In 1996, while in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he met UNC alumnus and Mount Pleasant native, Francie Swaringen. They were married in June 1997. Walter and Francie have three children. They moved to Mount Pleasant in 1999 so his children could grow up close to their grandmother, a decision he and his wife felt was an important part of their children’s life journey.
Walter Austin’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in his military background.
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Walter joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1984 and served Honorably until 1988. He later served in the Tennessee Army National Guard as a Crew Chief on an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter. During his time in the National Guard, Operation Desert Storm broke out. Thankfully, he was never deployed. Walter was awarded a National Defense Service Medal for his service.
Professional Background
Walter earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and an Associate Degree in Applied Science and Information Systems Securities from Stanly Community College.
In 2015, Walter began working at the Law Office of Paula J. Yost as Paula’s Legal Assistant. His dedication and hard work enabled him to work his way up to becoming the Practice Manager where his current duties include HR duties, payroll, billing, and other tasks as needed. His most important duty; however, is being the office dad to the team.
Community Involvement
Walter is an active volunteer with SEAkers Aquatic Adventures, Inc., a local non-profit that focuses on helping at-risk youth, as well as JRTOC students from local high schools. He was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2019 for his volunteer service at various activities in 2018 and 2019. Since his original open water certification in 2018 with his daughter, he has obtained his Nitrox, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver certifications. He now also holds a professional dive status as a NAUI Dive Master.
Personal Background
In 1996, while in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he met UNC alumnus and Mount Pleasant native, Francie Swaringen. They were married in June 1997. Walter and Francie have three children. They moved to Mount Pleasant in 1999 so his children could grow up close to their grandmother, a decision he and his wife felt was an important part of their children’s life journey.
Originally hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, Jade Tartamella made the move to North Carolina during her high school years with her family. She pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Social Work in 2005.
Professional Background
Jade’s journey into the legal field is a testament to her versatility and dedication to learning. With a decade of experience in Retirement Services and five years as a preschool teacher, she brings a wealth of customer service experience and organizational skills to the Law Office of Paula J. Yost. This is her first foray into the legal arena, a transition inspired by Paula’s need for someone who embodies these qualities and is eager to embrace new challenges.
Since joining the Country Law Shack, Jade has found immense fulfillment in her role. She has developed a keen understanding of North Carolina’s laws and regulations, especially in the area of estate planning. The constant learning and application of new legal knowledge have been particularly rewarding for her.
Community Involvement
Outside of her professional life, Jade is deeply committed to her community. She volunteers for several nonprofit organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Sonshine Backpack Ministries, and Esther’s Heart for Transformation. Additionally, she runs a “Mommy and Me” volunteer group in Cabarrus County, encouraging families to engage in kid-friendly volunteer activities together.
Personal Background
In her leisure time, Jade enjoys adventurous off-roading trips in her Jeep with her husband and kids. She also cherishes any opportunity to visit the beach, making the most of her spare moments in the sun and sand.
Robert E Cansler of Concord, NC joined the Country Law Shack as “of counsel” in July 2022.
Robert holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Economics from UNC-Asheville and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton. He became a member of the NC State Bar in 1978 and secured licensing to practice before the United States Supreme Court in 1983.
He previously served as an Asheville Police Officer, a Deputy US Marshal, an Assistant Attorney General, and retired as Chief of Police of Concord, NC. During his tenure as Chief of Police, he was elected President of the Association of NC Chiefs of Police.
Following his law enforcement career, Robert practiced law for 22 years where he specialized in estates, eminent domain (condemnation of real property), guardianship (including disabled adults), and governmental relations, including service as Assistant City Attorney of Concord and Town Attorney of both the Towns of Indian Trail and Stanfield. He also represented private clients in a variety of other issues.
In his spare time, Robert enjoys fishing from his boat on Badin Lake, volunteering with local Boy Scouts by mentoring fellow Eagle Scouts and serving on the Executive Board, and teaching community members about the safe handling of firearms and the finer points of shooting.
Robert E Cansler of Concord, NC joined the Country Law Shack as “of counsel” in July 2022.
Robert holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Economics from UNC-Asheville and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton. He became a member of the NC State Bar in 1978 and secured licensing to practice before the United States Supreme Court in 1983.
He previously served as an Asheville Police Officer, a Deputy US Marshal, an Assistant Attorney General, and retired as Chief of Police of Concord, NC. During his tenure as Chief of Police, he was elected President of the Association of NC Chiefs of Police.
Following his law enforcement career, Robert practiced law for 22 years where he specialized in estates, eminent domain (condemnation of real property), guardianship (including disabled adults), and governmental relations, including service as Assistant City Attorney of Concord and Town Attorney of both the Towns of Indian Trail and Stanfield. He also represented private clients in a variety of other issues.
In his spare time, Robert enjoys fishing from his boat on Badin Lake, volunteering with local Boy Scouts by mentoring fellow Eagle Scouts and serving on the Executive Board, and teaching community members about the safe handling of firearms and the finer points of shooting.
Penny Ferrell
Email Clerk
If Penny looks familiar, it is because she is Paula’s maternal aunt.
Penny is a graduate of Paw Creek Christian School and worked in the dental industry for most of her life. She joined the Country Law Shack to help and tends to do whatever we need on any given day. You may wind up talking to her on the phone.
Penny currently resides in Midland with her long-term partner, Vern, and her two cats.