Get in touch with us at office@carltonhayesnc.com
Carlton & Hayes Team
Our Support Staff
The legal system is overwhelming. You need more than an attorney—you need someone who understands—not just the legal process, but the emotions that come with it. The Carlton & Hayes staff supports our clients through every step of the judicial system. Our experienced team is always there to answer your questions, reassure you when things feel scary, and remind you that you will get through this. No legal jargon—just clear answers to help you feel more in control. You don’t have to do this alone. Carlton & Hayes is on your side.
Jennifer Somerville
Paralegal, Wayne County
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Jennifer is a Kinston native with over 15 years of legal experience, as both a Criminal Clerk and a trusted Paralegal. Jennifer knows how confusing and stressful the criminal justice system can be, and she’s here to walk you through it step by step.
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Jennifer has an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies and a Certificate in Law Office Management. When Jennifer is not helping clients, she attends NC State football games and volunteers with local rescues, helping to find homes for foster animals in need. Jennifer advocates for those who can’t speak for themselves—because compassion is at the center of everything she does.
Jennifer Perry
Certified Paralegal,
Wake County
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Jennifer is a lifelong Triangle-area resident and Cary native who brings nearly a decade of experience with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office to her work with Carlton & Hayes. Her extensive experience within the criminal justice system gives her a unique perspective and allows her to help clients better understand what can be an overwhelming and unfamiliar process.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies, from North Carolina State University. She subsequently earned a Paralegal Certificate from Meredith College and became a North Carolina Bar Certified Paralegal in 2016.
During her approximately nine years with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office, Jennifer worked in both the Felony Drug Unit and the Special Victims Unit. In those roles, she worked on complex, high-level felony cases and gained extensive experience with the criminal justice process and trial preparation.
While working at the District Attorney’s Office, Jennifer also earned a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from the University of North Dakota. Her education and professional experience provide her with a broad understanding of both the legal and psychological aspects of criminal cases.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys reading and spending time with friends.
Kayla Groff
Office Manager,
Goldsboro Office
​Kayla has degrees in Argibusiness and Animal Science and worked as a Veterinary Assistant for over eight years before transitioning to the legal field. Kayla previously served as a Digital Recording Technician in Wayne County Superior Court, where she gained firsthand experience with the court system.
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Kayla's passion for helping those that can't help themselves ensures that all of Carlton & Hayes clients are treated with compassion, from their first phone call to our office through case disposition.
In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time outdoors, camping and reading on the beach, baking, and spending time with her loved ones and fur babies.
