Trial Lawyers back Perdue

The N.C. Academy of Trial Lawyers has endorsed Beverly Perdue.

The association's political action committee announced today that it will back the lieutenant governor's bid for the Governor's Mansion.

"We have worked with her as a member of the House and later as both a member and leader of the Senate," Chief Executive Officer Dick Taylor said in a statement. "We've found her to be strongly supportive of protecting people's rights and assuring justice for the people of North Carolina."

The group said it also considered state Treasurer Richard Moore, Perdue's Democratic rival.

"We have strong respect for both candidates, but after careful consideration we decided Beverly Perdue is the best choice to lead North Carolina," Taylor said.

The press release did not mention the Republican candidates.