Hayes is a 2002 graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and earned his J.D. in 2005 from Campbell University. Hayes practices with his father, Garrett Ludlum, in Warsaw, North Carolina. Though Ludlum Law Firm is a general practice firm, 70 percent of Hayes' practice is dedicated to criminal defense. Hayes handles all types of felony, misdemeanor, and traffic cases in Duplin County and Sampson County. Hayes has served the Fourth Judicial District Bar as Vice President (2007-2008) and President (2008-2009). A small portion of Hayes' practice is devoted to general civil litigation and municipal law. Ludlum Law Firm represents four municipalities in Duplin County.