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Russell W. Dement III

DUI and DWI Attorney at Raleigh, NC

5.0   15 reviews

also known as Rusty DeMent | Raleigh DWI Lawyer, Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer

Message
  • Licensed for 26 years
    State NC
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

Not guilty on 4 counts
anonymous
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Mr. DeMent – IS THE BEST OF THE BEST
Gary
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About Russell

Learn Russell’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    60%
    We have over 40 years of experience diminishing and successfully defending DWI cases in Raleigh, including the following types of cases: Vehicular homicide, Habitual impaired driving, Drugged Driving, Child abuse cases stemming from DWI.

    26 years, 5,000 cases

  2. Criminal defense
    20%
    This is the umbrella field of practice that includes, DWI, Drug Crime, Traffic Crime, Violent Crime, Domestic Violence, Property Crime, Sex Crimes, and other crimes that fall within these categories.

    26 years, 5,000 cases

  3. Expungement
    20%
    While there are a dozen records that can be expunged, many folks are not eligible. Criminal records eligible for expunction include: first-time, nonviolent offenses committed +15 years ago or under age 18/22 and dismissed or not guilty charges

    26 years, 1,000 cases

Russell W. “Rusty” DeMent III is an experienced Raleigh criminal trial lawyer. He is dedicated to defending clients facing felony and misdemeanor charges in North Carolina’ at the state and federal level.

Rusty began his career in the Wake County Prosecutor’s office. There he honed the skill and experience necessary to defend citizens accused of serious crimes like murder, assault, property crime, and drug-related charges. His reputation for success in defending charges of DWI and related traffic crime has been earned through decades of experience in this fast-paced environment. Confident and poised, Rusty has a commanding courtroom presence and resourcefully adapts to variables on the fly. He possesses negotiation tactics necessary to secure the best possible outcomes for those criminally accused.

He is recognized as an AV Preeminent Peer Rated Lawyer by Martindale Hubbell. Rusty is listed in Best Lawyers in America Criminal Defense Practice Section and in the DUI/DWI Defense Section where he was named Lawyer of the Year in 2021. He has been included year after year in Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite and was listed in North Carolina Super Lawyers in 2020. Rusty is ethical, straightforward and aggressive in his defense and advocacy of his clients. He says, “I tell it like it is. I won’t hide the ball. If it’s bad, I’ll tell you. If there are some shots, we’ll take them. Everyone goes in with their eyes wide open.

 

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Contact Russell

Similar lawyers nearby

DeMent Askew & Johnson LLP
333 Fayetteville St.
Suite 1513
Raleigh, NC, 27601
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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0
  15 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | August 25, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Not guilty on 4 counts
I was charged with 2nd DUI, hit and run, drug paraphernalia and open container. Rusty fought tirelessly for me and I was found not guilty on all counts! He handled the entire process with professionalism, attention to every detail and his closing arguments were second to none. I HIGHLY recommend Rusty and his team. Give him a call, you won't regret it.
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Posted by Gary | May 26, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. DeMent – IS THE BEST OF THE BEST
In June 2020, I received my first infraction and was extremely concerned as to what my future may hold. After doing research to select a TOP attorney in Wake Forest, I contacted Mr. DeMent and discussed my situation. After a lengthy process working our way through the judicial system, Mr. Dement was successful in having my DWI charge dismissed. I am now able to continue with my life free from the burden of this charge. His commanding presence was observed by all in the courtroom. I was so appreciative that Mr. DeMent was representing me and HIGHLY recommend him if you are ever need a highly qualified attorney. You will not be disappointed.
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Posted by Jordan | June 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn’t have asked for a better outcome
I went in knowing what my charges were and what the maximum sentencing could be. He did a great job at trying my case and I believe we got the best outcome possible considering my charges. I am able to leave everything behind me and to continue living my life as I was prior to having been charged. We didn’t get everything dismissed but I believe we got the next best outcome we possibly could’ve!
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Posted by Jeff | November 16, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
This is the guy you want..
So I was facing a DWI charge that would've seriously crippled my life. I was worried about the outcome for months on end, as the judicial process snailed along. Rusty took it to trial with just a little to work with and got the whole case dismissed. He is a class act and an absolute artist in the courtroom who gets respect from the judges and prosecutors. I owe him a lot! STRONGLY RECOMMEND !!
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Posted by anonymous | November 23, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Truly thankful for such experienced and competent representation
The unfortunate series of events that led to the legal trouble in which I found myself finally took a turn for the better when I followed the advice of friends and family and hired Mr. Dement as my representation. The professional and courteous way he carries himself is only outdone by his truly impressive court room etiquette and confidence. I cannot thank him enough for turning a troubling misunderstanding in my present into a problem of my past. I would highly recommend him to anyone in the Triangle area who wants to be able to sleep at night during the often scary and convoluted legal process, knowing that they have the very best Raleigh has to offer on their side.
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Posted by anonymous | November 14, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Representation
For those who need a great Lawyer. Rusty Dement is one of the best in the business. I have used him twice now to help me with DUI'S. I like a lot of you I'm sure are not very proud to say that. Therefore I was of that mind of if I can just walk away again it will be the last time. Well Rusty did it for me. His ability and depth in trying the case was second to none. By all means he is the best out there. He also helped me with my sons speeding ticket and it also worked out in our favor. He will treat you right.
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Posted by Gia | November 10, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Defendent
Rusty gave me my life back. I was accused of DUI when I was sleep walking on ambien. I'm an upstanding member of the community with no criminal record and no history of substance abuse. Rusty proved my innocence and helped me to regain my life. I can never express how much this man championed me and showed the court that I am not an offender. Thank you rusty, I can't tell you how much I appreciate everything you have done for me.
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Posted by Doug | September 5, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Empathetic, Sharp, and Skilled Negotiator
Mr. DeMent was able to sort through the complexity of my case and negotiate with the District Attorney to achieve the best outcome for me. My situation was quite complex and multi-faceted, and could have ended quite terribly for me, however Mr. DeMent helped agree a reasonable solution that satisfied all parties involved. I am grateful for his help and absolutely convinced that I engaged the best legal counsel for the task.
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Posted by anonymous | September 5, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The one you want on your side
Mr. Dement is the attorney you want. He has the knowledge and experience that counts. He is very understanding and will walk you though the entire process. The entire staff will always be there to answer any questions you may have. I could not have asked for a better attorney and staff to assist me in a very difficult time.
Posted by David | August 23, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Got my traffic violation reduced!
I was issued a traffic violation in Wake County. There's no way I will pay a moving violation that will result in my insurance premium going up. I was especially concerned because I heard the Wake County DA's office is not know for leniency. Rusty explained the process and gave me confidence others did not. The citation was reduced which meant no driver's license point or insurances points! I would hire him again, but I hope to never need to! :)
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Posted by Jan | July 13, 2015
Rusty is an excellent attorney
As a practicing lawyer, I have referred several clients to Rusty who found themselves in trouble while visiting Wake County. He has always done an excellent job with the representation of our common clients. Rusty is always attentive to the client's needs and goes beyond the call of duty to keep the client informed. I would recommend Rusty without hesitation to my family and friends. In fact, I have actually called on Rusty to help two of my cousins. Rusty is simply a top notch lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | July 9, 2015
Trustworthy and Effective
After a family member's accident, we immediately contacted Mr. Dement to help us navigate their legal obstacles. Mr. Dement and his staff tirelessly worked to achieve the best possible outcome. His professionalism and knowledge of the legal system were very comforting during this very stressful time. His constant communication of what to expect during each step of the process was especially helpful. I highly recommend Mr. Dement and sincerely appreciate all he did during our time of need.
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Posted by Mike | July 8, 2015
I have worked for and been a client of Mr. DeMent
I have known Mr. DeMent and his firm for almost twenty years. In fact, my first job was with his firm right out of university. In that time, I have come to have my first impressions proven correct over and over again: honest, forthright, diligent, and honorable. I don't know that I have ever met an attorney with more intensity while representing his clients as envisioned by the canons of ethics. I suppose the best recommendation I can give for Mr. DeMent is that his firm has represented me in traffic court. Further, I have repeatedly recommended Mr. DeMent's services to family, friends, business partners, and acquaintances over the years when asked. In fact, my adopted younger brother has instructions that, should he ever need legal representation, his first phone call is to Mr. DeMent. Mr. DeMent and his staff pride themselves on being available to their clients, keeping them appraised of the current status of their matters, and being proactive in informing their clients of "what happens next." Legal issues requiring counsel can be unfamiliar and stressful times, however, having some idea of "what happens next" goes a long way of calming those nerves and reducing that stress.
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Posted by Cole | July 7, 2015
very profressional and very understandable
Mr DeMent and his staff are top line people. He helped me in my motorcycle accident that involved a DWI. How my case turned out effected my job and he handled everything very well for me. i was very pleased with how everything turned out in the end when it was all said and done.
Posted by anonymous | July 7, 2015
Been there for me!
Mr. Dement has always been there for me in my times of need. It's good to know that when things go in the wrong direction I have a trustworthy and reliable lawyer to look out for me and my interest. I would recommend him to anyone for their legal needs big or small.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • DeMent Askew, LLP
  • 2001 - Present
  • Associate
  • DeMent Askew Gammon & DeMent
  • 2000 - 2001
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Wake County District Attorney's Office
  • 1997 - 2000

Education

  • Wake Forest University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Wake Forest University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1994

Legal Cases

  • Evidence Suppressed in DWI Case; Court Holds “No Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion” for Traffic Stop
  • Dismissed
  • Not Guilty, Refusal Revocation Rescinded; Willful Refusal to Take Breathalyzer Test
  • Not Guilty.

Associations

  • The Litigation Counsel of America - Order of the Centurions
  • Member
  • 2022 - Present
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • Memeber
  • 2015 - Present
  • American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • North Carolina Advocates for Justice
  • Member
  • N/A
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • N/A
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • North Carolina Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Legal elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2023
  • Best Lawyer, General Criminal Defense Section
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2023
  • Selected to North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • North Carolina Super Lawyers
  • 2022
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2022
  • Best Lawyer - DUI/DWI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2022
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year - DUI/DWI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyer - DUI/DWI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year - DUI/DWI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyer - DUI/DWI Defense
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2019
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyers, Criminal Defense: General Practice
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2017
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2016
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2016
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2015
  • 10 Best for Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 100 DWI Attorneys, State of North Carolina
  • The National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC
  • 2015
  • Premier 100
  • American Academy of Trial Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 10 Attorney
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 100 DWI Attorneys, State of North Carolina
  • The National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC
  • 2014
  • Legal Elite
  • N.C. Business Journal
  • 2012
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (7)
Given (9)
Endorse Russell
Rashad Ahmed Hauter headshot
Rashad Hauter
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Rusty is a very talented trial attorney. As a former prosecutor, I was opposing counsel on several matters that Rusty defended. Rusty was always well prepared and made excellent legal arguments. Rusty was a tough opponent, but he always exhibited the highest degree of professionalism. I highly recommend him."
Jon William Welborn headshot
Jon Welborn
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Great criminal and driving while impaired attorney."
Phillip Hunter Liles headshot
Phillip Liles
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rusty is an excellent lawyer. I have gone against him as a former district attorney and I've observed him as a fellow defense attorney. His knowledge of complex legal issues combined with a straightforward and persuasive advocacy for his clients make him a great attorney."
Rebekah Grafton headshot
Rebekah Grafton
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Rusty is an outstanding attorney who fights extremely hard for his clients. If there is a defense to be found in a case, he will find it."
Trisha Leigh Dolores Jacobs headshot
Trisha Jacobs
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. DeMent as one of the best criminal defense attorneys in our community. As a former prosecutor with nine years of criminal trial experience, I had the opportunity to work directly with Mr. DeMent in both District and Superior Courts. Although we were adversaries by the very nature of our professions, Mr. DeMent always conducted himself with the utmost professionalism and integrity. He practices law with a zealous advocacy that is required to effectively represent each client and his work ethic has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers."
William F. Finn Jr. headshot
William Finn
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Rusty is an effective, diligent hard working lawyer that I have know for over 16 years. He provides his clients with outstanding legal representation and I would not hesitate for a second in giving him my highest recommendation."
Daphne D. Edwards headshot
Daphne Edwards
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Rusty Dement for any DUI or criminal defense case. Rusty is committed to his clients and has decades of experience that he brings to every criminal case. He knows the system, is a tough negotiator, and a great litigator. I highly recommend him."
View more endorsements
Joseph Alexander Marshall headshot
Joseph Marshall
Criminal defense
Rashad Ahmed Hauter headshot
Rashad Hauter
DUI and DWI
Phillip Hunter Liles headshot
Phillip Liles
DUI and DWI
Berryman J. Fitzhugh III headshot
Berryman Fitzhugh
DUI and DWI
James Bradford Polk headshot
James Polk
Criminal defense
Steven Saad headshot
Steven Saad
Criminal defense
Jan E. Pritchett headshot
Jan Pritchett
Criminal defense
William F. Finn Jr. headshot
William Finn
DUI and DWI
Daphne D. Edwards headshot
Daphne Edwards
Divorce and separation
Raleigh DUI and DWI Lawyer Russell W. Dement III
Russell W. Dement III
DUI and DWI Attorney
Raleigh, NC
Licensed for 26 years
Free Consultation
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