Payne Family Law & Mediation is pleased to announce that Barri Payne has been selected for inclusion in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, marking her eighth consecutive year of recognition by the peer-reviewed publication.

For 2027, Barri is recognized in two practice areas:

• Family Law
• Family Law Mediation

Payne was first selected by Best Lawyers for Family Law in 2020 and has been recognized every year since. Her recognition expanded in 2024 to include Family Law Mediation, an important component of her practice and her work helping families resolve difficult legal matters outside of traditional litigation when appropriate.

Eight Consecutive Years of Peer Recognition

Best Lawyers recognition is based on peer review within the legal profession. Lawyers are evaluated through confidential assessments by other recognized attorneys practicing in the same geographic and legal practice areas.

Barri’s inclusion in the 2027 edition continues a record that now spans eight consecutive years and recognizes both her family law representation and mediation work.

A North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Family Law and Certified Family Financial Mediator, Barri founded her Durham practice in 2013. She represents clients in matters involving separation and divorce, child custody and support, equitable distribution, spousal support, modification and enforcement, adoption, and other family law matters. As a mediator, she works with attorneys and their clients to resolve family law disputes through the mediation process.

The 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® was publicly released on August 20, 2026.