Belal Elrahal

Belal is an experienced trial attorney at the Mecklenburg County Public Defender's Office, and also serves in the U.S. Army Reserves as a JAG Attorney. He is running because he is committed to bringing fairness, compassion, and just outcomes for every person and every case.

He was born in Charlotte after his parents immigrated from Lebanon, and his experience growing up as a first-generation American and Muslim led him to dedicate himself to serving the community and those in need. After graduating from Davidson College, he earned his law degree at UNC Chapel Hill School of Law. Initially in private practice, Belal served clients in family, criminal, and civil cases, and was a volunteer attorney for President Obama’s “Clemency Project 2014” preparing and submitting clemency petitions for people sentenced for eligible non-violent federal offenses.

While at the Public Defender’s Office, Belal has participated in pro bono expunction clinics and “Know Your Rights” campaigns with the Mecklenburg County Council of Elders, and serves as a member of the Mecklenburg County Bar Board of Directors and Finance Committee. He has also taught new and experienced attorneys as a volunteer instructor for the UNC School of Government in District and Superior Court practice. As a first-generation American and Charlotte’s first Muslim judge, Belal will bring more representation, significant experience, and a deep commitment to public service and caring for others to the District Court Bench serving 1.1 million people.