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Russell D. Babb

Criminal defense Attorney at Raleigh, NC

5.0   70 reviews
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State NC
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Russell

Learn Russell’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    I handle any type of criminal charge: from traffic violations or misdemeanors to any felony, including sex crimes or murder. I also routinely file petitions to expunge any eligible offense.

  2. DUI and DWI
    30%
    Misdemeanor or Felony

  3. Domestic violence
    20%
    Misdemeanor or Felony

Russell D. Babb was born in Wilson, North Carolina.  He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a Morehead Scholar and co-captain of the 1995 Carolina football team.  A four-year starter as an offensive lineman for the Tar Heels, Mr. Babb was also the winner of the 1995 Jim Tatum Award, which is presented each year to the top Senior Scholar-Athlete in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

After college, Mr. Babb entered the University of North Carolina School of Law.  During law school, he participated in the UNC Criminal Law Clinic and served as president of the Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity.  After receiving his law degree in 1999, Mr. Babb practiced civil litigation for several years before changing his focus to criminal defense.

Mr. Babb most recently worked as an Assistant Public Defender in Wake County, and has represented criminal defendants at all levels of state court in North Carolina.  He has also defended clients in federal court and is admitted to practice in the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of North Carolina and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.  Mr. Babb is a member of the Wake County Bar Association, the Wake County Academy of Criminal Trial Lawyers, the North Carolina Bar Association, the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the American Bar Association, and the American Association for Justice.

Tharrington Smith LLP is a North Carolina law firm regulated by the Rules of Professional Conduct, as promulgated by the North Carolina State Bar. As such, our lawyers do not and cannot ethically participate in many of Avvo's programs, including its Legal Topics, Legal Forms, or its fixed-price legal services. Tharrington Smith advises extreme caution when relying on Q&A's or use of legal forms without the guidance of a qualified lawyer.

Contact Russell

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Tharrington Smith, LLP
150 Fayetteville Street
Suite 1800
Raleigh, NC, 27601

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  70 customer reviews
5 Star
 
99%
4 Star
 
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2 Star
 
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Posted by anonymous | September 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Super Excelent
Russell was very quick, thorough and effective. I enjoyed his confidence and honesty. I didn't mince words when reviewing my case and was very direct when talking about the good and the bad. I would absolutely rely on Russell as an attorney again (but I also hope I will never have to, haha)
Posted by Austin | July 24, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Person, Awesome Lawyer!
Russell helped me out of a sticky situation. Russell kept in contact very well and answered all the questions I had honestly and thoughtfully. He always let me know what he was thinking, i never had to guess what was going on!
Posted by anonymous | May 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest empathetic professional
Mr. Babb was quick to respond and empathetic to our case. He knows the law and worked for the best outcome- I highly recommend!
Posted by Kendyll | May 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Person and Lawyer!!
I just want to say that my lawyer Russel was literally the best lawyer I could have gotten in my situation. Not only did he actually care about my case, but he actually cared about me as a person. Which is more than I can say for most lawyers. Russell not only won my case which was not an easy feat but he also kept me informed throughout the process, so I never felt completely in the dark about what was happening. Never once did I not feel like I wasn't a priority and I really cannot stress it enough Russell is an excellent lawyer, a great person, and I can confidently say if you use his services, you will not be disappointed. You're in good hands with him.
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Posted by anonymous | April 16, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He’s Super Lawyer for a reason!
Needed an attorney ASAP due to an incident, and not knowing anyone or the law, I asked a friend for a referral. She then put me in contact with a gentlemen who knew Mr. Babb professionally and was very familiar with his cases. The gentlemen that recommended Mr. Babb was very impressed with him and his work and assured I would be in excellent hands. I am very grateful that Mr. Babb handled my case because he got it dismissed and my record expunged. From the moment I contacted his office I felt at ease, he was very transparent, and worked fast for me. He always kept me in the loop of what was happening. He always treated me with respect and kindness and so did his staff. I know finding a criminal attorney can be scary, but I assure you won’t regret putting your trust in Mr. Babb as he was able to help me and therefore get my life back on track. I hope I don’t ever have to use Mr. Babb again but if I ever did, I know he would be the first person to call with no hesitation.
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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Higher Than Excellent at his Job !
I had a unique situation, that rarely occurs , But due to Mr. Babb being understanding & doing a little research he figured out what needed to be done to help me & took care of my charge. I recommend him to anyone looking a lawyer and if I find myself in a situation like this again, I know who to call!
Posted by anonymous | November 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch!
Mr. Babb represented my case and was excellent. He was thorough, considerate, knowledgeable of the law and respectful to me and my needs. I would highly recommend Mr Babb.
Posted by Jim | August 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 Stars, Excellent Attorney, Great Result
Mr. Babb is an excellent attorney, very responsive and produced a great result. Negotiated a great outcome involving underage alcohol consumption, excessive speeding and operating vehicle after consuming underage. He was very precise and strategically worked towards the most favorable outcome possible. No doubt would use Mr. Babb again.
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Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case Dismissed
After being falsely accused of threatening someone with a gun, I contacted and hired Mr. Babb. He kept me informed, was honest and upfront about everything, and did a great job of getting to the truth. He will be my first and only recommendation to anyone who needs a lawyer from now on. Thank you!
Posted by Lora | June 29, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing at his profession!
Wonderful service and excellent attorney! Would highly recommend him! Worth every cent.
Posted by anonymous | May 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Life Changer!
From the first day I spoke with Mr. Babb he kept me informed as well as calm. He presented a game plan immediately after being hired. He was quick with his responses when I reached out with questions concerning my case. He remained very professional while being personable at the same time. I really felt like I had someone fighting for me in my corner. This was my first time ever having an incident and with the help of Mr. Babb case was dismissed.
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Posted by Matt | May 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Brilliant Work!
Russell did an amazing job representing me. He brilliantly planned and carried out my defense, which allowed for the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Russell Babb to anyone!
Posted by anonymous | April 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE BEST!!
Mr. Russell Babb was superb!! He always kept me up to date with court dates and informed me on what to expect. Definitely recommend!!!
Posted by anonymous | April 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney
Was in contact with us well before the case he handled, unlike others who never contacted you once their fee was paid. Was very satisfied with the outcome. Case was dismissed.
Posted by Susan | April 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney&Great person
Bussell is an awesome attorney! He know the law and he knows how to get the best results! If anybody needs a lawyer,I recommend Russell!!!
Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful to work with!
I was referred to Russel Babb about three years ago, for my DUI case. After the initial consultation, he consistently checked in on myself and my life while going through the process. It was extremely kind of him to do. He managed to get my case dismissed and expunged off my record. He made to sure to mention on multiple occasions, that in instance we needed to go to trial, he was fully prepared. He never made me feel nervous, and was honest throughout our time together. I highly recommend Babb!
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Posted by RC | February 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Criminal defense, Look no further!
In my 52 years I have never given a review, positive or negative. In this case I feel compelled as Mr. Babb deserves 10 stars. Not knowing any criminal defense attorneys, I relied so heavily on the reviews others have written. Unfortunately in these situations you have to make a rather quick decision. After speaking with a few, I knew Russell was the one. My intuition was right on. He is straight forward, extremely knowledgeable, sets real expectations right up front and to top it off a true gentleman. Final outcome was better than I ever expected- charges dropped, record expunged. Please do yourself a favor, you have to at least call Russell and speak with him!
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Posted by anonymous | January 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Worthy 6 Stars
Great communication, case was taken care of swiftly and got charges dropped for me!
Posted by anonymous | November 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney & Great Person
Russell is an awesome attorney! He knows the law and he knows how to get the best results!
Posted by anonymous | July 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
Russell is a great lawyer, helped me out in plenty of ways I could never thank him enough for. If anybody needs a lawyer, I recommend Russell!
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Cost

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Tharrington Smith
  • 2010 - Present
  • Assitant Public Defender
  • Wake County Public Defender’s Office
  • 2007 - 2009
  • Associate
  • Temple Law Firm, PLLC
  • 2003 - 2006
  • Associate to Stephen T. Smith
  • McMillan, Smith, & Pyler
  • 2001 - 2003
  • Associate
  • Johnston, Allison, & Hord, P.A. 1999-2001
  • 1999 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • University of North Carolina School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996

Associations

  • 10th Judicial District Bar
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • North Carolina State Bar
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • North Carolina Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Academy of Criminal Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Strategic Planning Committee
  • N/A
  • American Bar Foundation
  • Fellow
  • N/A
  • American Association for Justice
  • Member
  • N/A
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • North Carolina Advocates for Justice
  • Member
  • N/A
  • North Carolina Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Academy of Criminal Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 2014 - 2016
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2018
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2018
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Client Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2018
  • Client Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2017
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2017
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2016
  • Legal Elite, Criminal Law Section
  • Business North Carolina Magazine
  • 2016
  • Legal Elite, Criminal Law Section
  • Business North Carolina Magazine
  • 2015
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2015
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2014
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2013
  • Legal Elite, Criminal Law Section
  • Business North Carolina Magazine
  • 2012
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2012
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2011
  • Best Law Firms
  • U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers®
  • 2010
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (2)
Endorse Russell
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly recommend Russell Babb for criminal defense and traffic matters in North Carolina. He and I have served on a local bar Board of Directors together and I had the opportunity to learn more about his practice and to witness first hand his superb interpersonal and communication skills. His skills would make him highly effective in handling criminal and traffic matters in this state and especially in Wake County."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I first got to know Russell when he was an Assistant Public Defender for Wake County. Russell is a very knowledgeable attorney who fights hard for his clients. He is experienced, dedicated and has an outstanding reputation in the legal community."
Personal injury
Criminal defense

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Raleigh Criminal defense Lawyer Russell D. Babb
Russell D. Babb
Criminal defense Attorney
Raleigh, NC
Licensed for 24 years