Joe Hester began practicing law in 1977 as an Assistant Solicitor (now Assistant District Attorney) in the Seventh Judicial District serving Nash, Edgecombe and Wilson Counties.

He joined the law firm of Moore, Diedrick, Whitaker & Carlisle in 1979 and later became a partner in the reorganized firm of Moore, Diedrick, Carlisle & Hester. He left the firm in 1999 and together with Thomas J. Moore II formed the partnership Hester & Moore, PLLC. Joe continues to practice today with Damian L. Tucker as Hester & Tucker, PLLC.

Joe’s practice has consisted of criminal defense in the Seventh Judicial District in both the District and Superior Courts. He has handled thousands of cases, both felonies and misdemeanors. Joe is known by many of his peers as one of the most experienced DWI trial attorneys in the district.

Joe was chosen in 1996 by Governor James B. Hunt to become the first chairman of the newly established Clean Water Management Trust Fund. With the support of President Pro Tem Mark Basnight and Governor Beverly Perdue, he lead the Trust Fund from its beginning to become one of the most important state water preservation and conservation organizations in the nation. He was reappointed to the board by Governors Easley & Perdue and remained on the board until July 31, 2013. He also served as President and member of the Board of the Pamlico Tar River Foundation for many years. Joe was also appointed to the Coastal Resources Commission by Governor Perdue and served until July 31, 2013.

For many years, Joe has been an active supporter of community athletic programs in the surrounding areas. He has coached youth sports teams in baseball and softball but primarily Babe Ruth bases for over 20 years. He now coaches the 13u and/or 15u Northern Babe Ruth team. Visit our Facebook page during the season.