At Cline Donaldson PLLC, we handle a wide range of legal matters with a focus on estate planning and real estate law.
Our approach is simple
We believe in personalized attention, listening to your unique needs, and developing tailored solutions that work best for you. We take pride in being accessible, responsive, and relatable.
Dedicated to proudly serving North Carolina with offices in Wilmington and Hampstead.
Meet our founders
Leverage our founders’ law enforcement and military backgrounds for a fresh perspective.
Managing Partner
Scott Donaldson
Former Law Enforcement Officer
Prior to Cline Donaldson Law PLLC, Scott gained invaluable experience working for the New York City Sheriff’s Department, where he climbed the ranks from Deputy to Lieutenant.
Scott transitioned careers in 2020 when he accepted an offer to attend Campbell Law School in Raleigh, NC. Scott finished law school in 2.5 years, one semester early, while commuting from Wilmington.
Scott takes immense pride in his work ethic and character. As a father and a husband, Scott understands the importance of planning for your future. As a former law enforcement officer, Scott also understands the importance of trust in relationships.
He chose to focus on estate planning because he wanted to earn clients’ trust and assist them in giving their families the gift of a proper estate plan.
Managing Partner
Jason Cline
Former Military Officer
Jason completed high school and undergraduate studies in Alaska before attending law school in Arkansas. Admitted to practice law in Arkansas and North Carolina, Jason’s practice is heavily focused on real estate and business development, having handled literally thousands of real estate transactions ranging from small land deals to multi-million dollar development projects.
He is admitted to practice in Middle and Eastern District Federal Courts, and is currently a member of the Federalist Society, the New Hanover County Bar Association, and the North Carolina Bar Association.
Before practicing law, Jason served as a Senior Adviser to Arkansas Secretary of State Mark Martin. In addition to his legal career, he is a Captain currently serves as a Company Commander with a mechanized infantry company in the North Carolina Army National Guard, bringing leadership and discipline to both military and legal arenas. Outside of work, he enjoys running, CrossFit, and is a certified yoga instructor.
Jason lives in Wilmington, with his wife Janelle and their three children—Luke, Alice, and Lincoln.
Meet our attorneys
Partner
Michael Ankrum
Michael G. Ankrum is an attorney with more than three decades of distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps, bringing a disciplined and mission-focused approach to his legal practice. Over a 33.5-year military career, he served 18 years in the infantry, including four years as an infantry officer, before transitioning to serve as a Marine judge advocate.
Mr. Ankrum earned his undergraduate degree from Shippensburg University in 2004 and his Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law in 2011. He later obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Criminal Law from The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School (TJAGLCS) in 2017.
From 2011 to 2024, Mr. Ankrum practiced military justice, handling complex matters including courts-martial, administrative proceedings, and international legal issues arising in operational environments. Notably, he was among the first Victims’ Legal Counsel in the Marine Corps, contributing to the early development and expansion of victim representation within the military justice system. His experience includes both prosecution and defense roles, providing a comprehensive, balanced perspective on military law.
Mr. Ankrum now focuses his practice on real property law, where he applies his extensive legal and operational experience to guide clients through residential and commercial real estate transactions. His practice is grounded in precision, practical problem-solving, and a commitment to protecting his clients’ interests.
Partner
Jessica Bertovich
Jessica Bertovich is a real estate attorney and partner at Cline Donaldson PLLC, bringing a wealth of transactional experience to every closing table. A West Virginia native, Jessica began her legal career in her home state before relocating to North Carolina with her family, where she became licensed to practice and quickly established herself as a trusted voice in real estate law.
Over the course of her career, Jessica has built a reputation for precision, efficiency, and an unmatched command of complex real estate transactions. Colleagues and clients alike know her as a true transaction wizard, someone who can navigate even the most intricate deals with confidence and clarity.
Outside of the office, Jessica treasures time spent with her husband and two children.
Associate Attorney
Thomas Harvey
A Wilmington native and proud graduate of Laney High School, Harvey brings with him a distinguished legal background shaped by both academic excellence and real-world advocacy.
He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina Wilmington before attending Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law in Raleigh, where he honed his litigation skills through work with the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s office, competition in the national negotiations team championships, and internships with both the Town of Cary and the Johnston County District Attorney’s office.
He also studied international law at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge, England, an experience that broadened his perspective on the complex legal landscape his clients navigate every day.
Associate Attorney
Dustin Smith
A native of Louisburg, North Carolina, Dustin earned his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). It was during a business law class at UNCW—ironically focused more on tort law than traditional business topics—that he discovered his true passion for the law. After graduating during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he seized the opportunity to dedicate myself fully to studying for the LSAT and pursuing a legal career.
Dustin began his legal education at Campbell Law School in the fall of 2021 and graduated in the spring of 2024. While at Campbell, he gained valuable hands-on experience through a two-year internship focused on personal injury matters and by participating in a family law clinic during his second year.
In October 2024, Dustin joined the team at Cline Donaldson Law Firm as an associate attorney, where he focuses his practice in civil litigation. He am passionate about advocating for his clients and committed to providing thoughtful, effective representation in all phases of litigation.
Outside of the Office Dustin enjoys spending time with his Golden Retriever, Deacon, as well as playing golf and exercising.
Associate Attorney
Amber Ray
Amber, a native of Wilmington, earned her undergraduate degree from University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she majored in Criminology and minored in Spanish and Forensic Science. Prior to attending law school, Amber worked as a paralegal in District Attorney’s offices and in insurance litigation, gaining valuable experience in both criminal and civil legal settings. She went on to receive her law degree from Campbell Law School, where she developed a strong foundation in legal analysis and client advocacy.
Amber’s practice focuses on real property law, where she guides buyers through residential and commercial real estate transactions. She is committed to making each transaction as seamless and stress-free as possible for all parties involved.
Outside of the office, Amber enjoys crocheting, snowboarding, traveling, and relaxing with her cats.
Why Choose Us?
At Cline Donaldson PLLC we understand that your trust is earned.
Our client-centered approach strives to alleviate your stress by providing frequent updates while working tirelessly to accomplish your goals.
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What our clients say
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From First Contact to Final Outcome
At Cline Donaldson PLLC, we’ve crafted a straightforward process to guide you. Our involvement ensures you’re supported and informed at every turn. Let’s tackle your concerns and pave the way to a clearer future together.
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A new chapter begins
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Action & advocacy
Every case is unique. Together, we strategize and act decisively.