Neal is a native of Asheboro, North Carolina and has lived his entire life in North Carolina. He received an undergradate degree in chemical engineering from N.C. State and then graduated from Wake Forest University where he received his Master of Business Administration and law degree.

Prior to law school, Neal was employed as a chemical engineer at one of the nation's largest privately held companies. Neal has represented clients in various matters ranging from some of North Carolina's largest financial institutions in Federal Court to traffic citations in District Court.

Neal makes his home in Asheboro with his wife, Beth, and two sons. He is an avid college football fan and has visited 8 foreign countries, including China.