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Ryan T. Smith

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Virtual Consultation
also known as R. Thomas Smith
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Avvo Rating10
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Licensed for 13 years
  • Free consultation
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Ryan T. Smith
Ryan T. Smith
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About Ryan

1] READ 345+ 5-Star Reviews 2] ANALYZE Top Awards 3] Text or Call 24/7 *FREE CONSULT*

I love competition and thrive on being a trial lawyer.  I'm known as the 'DWI Guy' and 100% own it.  It's what I do.  I'm in the Legal Elite Hall of Fame as my colleagues voted me as North Carolina's Top Criminal Law Attorney in 2016.  I appreciate all the awards and recognition, from serving on Law Review to Business NC's Top 30 Under 30, to Super Lawyers, to the National Trial Lawyer's Top 40 Under 40, but it's helping people that makes me truly happy.

 

What will become clear after speaking with me?

[1] I'm direct and strategically-aggressive.

[2] My niche is getting people (Judges, Lawyers, DA's Office, etc.) to say "Yes" when they don't want to.

[3] Our custom internal-process and checks & balance systems will be relieving.

Being a certified NBA Player Agent (NBPA), the time I don’t spend battling it out in court, I spend either recruiting NBA prospects or reliving my glory days on the basketball court.  I’ve been the Commissioner of the Mecklenburg County Lawyer Basketball League for years.  Check out the photo-section for our recent Championship portrait.  You’ll have the opportunity to hold our 50lb. gavel as it’s proudly displayed as soon as you walk in our building.

I’m a West Virginia native who fights to the end.  I started my professional career in the Corporate & Investment Banking world.  Although very interesting, I didn’t know my personal end-game until I formed RTS Law Group.  Our employees are sharp, passionate, and feel like they are members of my family (some actually are).  This has all been a dream-come-true.  I’m looking forward to fighting on your behalf.

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Practice areas

OtherCar accidentCriminal defenseDUI and DWISpeeding and traffic ticket
  1. Speeding and traffic ticket: 70%

    All. Day. Long. High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  2. DUI and DWI: 10%

    DWI/Impaired Driving with High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  3. Criminal defense: 2%

    Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  4. Car accident: 2%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, Brain Injury etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  1. Domestic violence: 1%

    Restraining Order Prosecution & Defense / 50B / 50C

    13 years

  2. Drug Crime: 1%

    We'll discuss the facts. The offense you're charged with | Your criminal history | The quantity of drugs you had

  3. Expungement: 1%

    Looking to get Charges, and potentially Convictions, off your record.

    13 years

  4. Guardianship: 1%

    Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.

    13 years

  5. Violent crime: 1%

    Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  6. Licensing: 1%

    All. Day. Long. High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  7. Sex crime: 1%

    Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  8. White collar crime: 1%

    Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.

    13 years

  9. Family: 1%

    Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.

    13 years

  10. Divorce and separation: 1%

    Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.

    13 years

  11. Lawsuits and disputes: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  12. Litigation: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  13. Motorcycle accident: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  14. Trucking accident: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  15. Wrongful death: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

  16. Personal injury: 1%

    We represent individuals with major injuries from Car Accidents, Wrongful Death, Assaults, Dog Bites, Slip & Falls, Workers Compensation, etc., that were simply not your fault, anywhere in the United States.

    13 years

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Photos and videos

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Contact

RTS Law Group

1800 East Blvd.
Charlotte, NC, 28203

Website
www.rtslawgroup.com 

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    NCActive200804/24/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers199
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Legal EliteBusiness North Carolina2018
    Super LawyersSuper Lawyers / Rising Stars (DUI/DWI)2018
    Top 40 Under 40The National Trial Lawyers2017
    Best DWI Lawyers in Charlotte, NCThree Best Rated2017
    Super LawyersSuper Lawyers / Rising Stars2017
    TOP CRIMINAL LAWYER in NCBusiness North Carolina's Legal Elite2016
    Super LawyersSuper Lawyers / Rising Stars2016
    Top LawyersBusiness North Carolina's Legal Elite2015
    Top 30 Under 30Elevate Lifestyle - Charlotte2010
    Law ReviewWest Virginia University College of Law2006
    Clinical Law Program MemberWest Virginia University College of Law2006
    Associate EditorLaw Review - West Virginia University2006
    CertifiedLexisNexis & Westlaw2004
    President's Honor RollMarshall University, Lewis College of Business2003
    Dean's ListMarshall University, Lewis College of Business2003
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Managing AttorneyRTS Law Group2011 - Present
    PartnerDillon & Smith, PLLC2009 - 2011
    PartnerDillon Moore & Smith2009 - 2009
    AssociateWachovia - Corporate & Investment Banking2008 - 2009
    Law ClerkMacCorkle Lavender, PLLC2006 - 2006
    Clinical Law ProgramWest Virginia University College Of Law2006 - 2007
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Mecklenburg County Bar Lawyer Basketball LeagueCommissioner2012 - Present
    Western District of North Carolina (Federal Court)Member2009 - Present
    West Virginia Alumni AssociationMember2007 - Present
    YMCAMember2007 - Present
    Marshall University Alumni AssociationMember2003 - Present
    North Carolina Advocates for JusticeMember2014 - 2015
    QC HoopsSponsor/Coach2011 - 2014
    Mecklenburg County Bar Young Lawyer DivisionMember2009 - 2012
    American Bar AssociationMember2008 - 2008
    North Carolina Bar AssociationMember2008 - 2015
    West Virginia Law ReviewAssociate Editor2006 - 2007
    Sports Law SocietyMember2006 - 2006
    Business and Politics Summer Abroad Program in BrazilMember2006 - 2006
    Mediterranean Legal Studies Summer Abroad program in EuropeMember2005 - 2005
    Trial AdvocacyMember2004 - 2005
    American Marketing AssociationVice President2003 - 2003
    Phi Eta SigmaMember2003 - 2003
    Beta Gamma SigmaMember2003 - 2003
    Alpha Kappa PsiMember2001 - 2003
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    West Virginia Law Review“Bulls Eye”: How Public Universities in West Virginia Can Creatively Comply with Title IX without the Targeted Elimination of Men’s Sports Teams2008
    Albany Law Journal of Science and TechnologyCounterfeit Drugs: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly2006
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    West Virginia University College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2007
    Marshall UniversityBBA - Bachelor of Business Administration2003
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Legal EliteTOP CRIMINAL LAWYER IN NC - Peer Rated2016
    Super Bowl PreparationHow to Avoid DWI Arrest2016
    Panther's Greg Hardy (NFL)Greg Hardy (NFL) - Assault Trial2015
    Attorney Continuing Legal EducationDWI/DUI Laws2014
    Sports Law SocietyLawyer League Basketball & Softball2014
    Real Estate 101 - SunTrust BankReal Estate2010
    WEF - Corporate & Investment BankDeal Partners - Equipment Finance2008
    Sales Conference360 Viewpoint2004
    Resident Advisor WelcomingNew Residents2001
    Resident Advisor WelcomingNew Residents2000
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    NO PROBABLE CAUSEJudge Dismissed DWI Charge
    Court Finds No Probable CauseCase Dismissed by Court
    Court Finds No Reasonable SuspicionDismissed charge
    Dismissed DWIDWI Charge Dismissed
    No Probable CauseCourt Dismissed DWI Charge
    NOT GuiltyNOT Guilty
    Superior Court DWI AppealDismissed the DWI Charge
    DISMISSED DWI & Assault on a FemaleDISMISSED
    NOT GuiltyNOT Guilty
    Suppressed BACSuppressed BAC
    DISMISSED DWIDismissed
    Dismissed 50-B/Assault on FemaleDismissed the 50-B Complaint & Assault Charge
    Failure to Work Charge - NOT GuiltyNot Guilty
    DWI Case DismissedDismissed charge

    Reviews

    (346)
    5 Star
    		100%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		0%
    Review Ryan Smith

    Congratulations, you're attorney search is now over!!

    Posted by

    Ryan Smith will make your life easier! After being slapped with a DUI arrest, I experienced the lowest point in my life. Literally, right after I spoke with him over the phone regarding my case I felt relieved and hopeful again. A year later, my case is dismissed. You would be crazy not to hire him! He is the upmost professional with the friendliest staff. Thank you guys once again. I am extremely grateful for this favorable outcome, and my picture off the internet!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    CASE DISMISSED

    Posted by

    Got my DUI case DISMISSED! 10/10 would definitely hire if I ever get in trouble again. I recommend Rts law group to everyone !!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Eased Stress of Citation

    Posted by

    One morning, I was pulled over for speeding on 1-485 and at a very stressful moment I found very positive reviews for Mr. Smith. I received a consultation and was very welcoming with the discussion of my situation. Eventually, I was able to just get a fine and no insurance and DMV points. Mr. Smith is very professional and will ensure that you are receiving top notch service.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best Law Frim & Attorney in Charlotte

    Posted by

    If you're in search for a law firm look no further. I hired RTS Law Group to handle a speeding / reckless driving ticket. Ryan and his team made me feel like a VIP client from start to finish, with excellent and timely communication throughout the entire process. Most importantly, I couldn't have aske for better results as they were able to get my citation reduced to an equipment violation. Top notch team, process, and customer service. Thank you Ryan and RTS Law Group. You're the best in business.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Great attorney and great support staff!

    Posted by

    The attorney was knowledgeable about my concerns and the pending outcome of my case. He and his staff were very prompt, clear and concise throughout the process.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Business owner

    Posted by

    Ryan Smith assisted my company with very good legal advice and I would advise everyone to use his services if you are in need of a very knowledgeable attorney.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    HIGHLY RECOMMEND

    Posted by

    I remember getting my DWI and thought this was the end of the world. I called multiple law firms and Ryan got back to me 1st! He gave me hope again. He asked me, “what do I want out of this?” I told him, ”I want this to be as if never happened” He didn’t promise me anything, but he was confident. He answered all my questions and believed we can win and we did today. This was definitely a nice ending to a long year. See Ryan, best lawyer in Charlotte!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Client Waxhaw, NC

    Posted by

    This was the BEST thing I ever did! Ryan made this process easier than I could have ever imagined. I was terrified what might happen to my insurance and my record. My end result was completely best case scenario. Thank you so much
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Amazing Service

    Posted by

    I called in for advise. I was immediately transferred to ryan after his amazing paralegal spoke with me briefly. he was so helpful and truly cared about my situation. Extremely knowledgeable and went above and beyond to help even though he didnt have to.i can't thank him enough for being so helpful in such a difficult time.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    simple assault charges

    Posted by

    I met with attorney because i was being charged with simple assault (i had never been in trouble with the law in life). I met with attorney to give my statement and at that time i did not hesitate to hire him for my case. The attorney as well as anyone in the office was very helpful with any questions i had moving forward. I met with the attorney prior to my court case because i had no idea what was going to happen. On my court day, my attorney had my case dismissed and i was never charged with simple assault. My attorney was able to get petition granted for expunction.I would highly recommend this attorney for any your needs.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (40)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Mark Gott, Guardianship Attorney on May 10, 2016
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have worked on the other side of the case from Ryan MANY times. I have always respected his legal ability, advocacy, and honesty. He has a great reputation with the court and other lawyers. I would personally refer him to a valued client if I had a conflict of interest and it was an area that Ryan practiced.

    Tonya Graser Smith, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 6, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Smith is an outstanding asset to our Mecklenburg County Bar and a well respected attorney in Charlotte. He is an agressive advocate for his clients and a great attorney to have on your side for criminal proceedings.

    Ronald Shook, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 7, 2020
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Great lawyer, great guy. Ryan really knows his stuff!

    Joshua Valentine, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 19, 2018
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Having worked with Mr. Smith on several occasions, I can personally attest that he is a very sharp and dedicated attorney who pays special attention to detail in every case. He knows the law and is a fierce advocate both in and out of the courtroom. He has my highest recommendation.

    Mark Gott, Guardianship Attorney on May 10, 2016
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have worked on the other side of the case from Ryan MANY times. I have always respected his legal ability, advocacy, and honesty. He has a great reputation with the court and other lawyers. I would personally refer him to a valued client if I had a conflict of interest and it was an area that Ryan practiced.

    Howard Long, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 18, 2016
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    Ryan is a great guy and even better advocate. I tried many cases against him and can attest that he was always beyond prepared. I highly endorse Ryan.

    Christopher Browning, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 28, 2016
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    I’ve had the pleasure of handling many cases against Ryan. In each instance, he represented his client diligently and passionately. Ryan is always professional. I highly recommend him.

    Dominique Foard, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 31, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ryan is a smart, aggressive litigator that will protect client interests. He is effective inside and outside of the courtroom representing his clients. I endorse Ryan.

    Derek Adler, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 4, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Great lawyer with great character.

    Christopher Shelburn, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 14, 2015
    Relationship: Friend

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Matthew Harris, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 18, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Ryan T. Smith. He is my go-to DUI attorney in Charlotte, NC.

    Jeanne Pennebaker, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 5, 2015
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Ryan is a very talented lawyer who understands the law and the system and how to get the best possible results for his clients.

    Mark Lawson, Criminal defense Attorney on May 26, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ryan is an excellent attorney who exudes compassion for the law, concern for his clients, and professionalism both inside and outside the courtroom.

    Douglas Borthwick, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 6, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    R. Michael Elliot, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 7, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ryan Smith is an excellent, conscientious lawyer. He excels at fighting hard and achieving great results for his clients.

    Robert Ingalls, DUI and DWI Attorney on Nov 19, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Smith comes with my highest recommendation. As a colleague, his perspective has benefited me tremendously.

    Nathan Hull, Guardianship Attorney on Nov 19, 2014
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I worked with Ryan on a guardianship matter. He is very knowledgeable and is well respected in the Clerk’s office. I highly recommend Ryan Smith for guardianship matters.

    Daniel Lyon, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 26, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ryan is an effective advocate for clients inside and outside of the courtroom. He will take the time to listen to clients and tailor a strategy to fit their specific situation. I endorse Ryan.

    Robert Reeves, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 28, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Over my 25 year legal career, I have interacted with many lawyers. After having an opportunity to observe Ryan Smith, I was impressed by his commanding knowledge and professional courtroom presentation. It is my privilege to recommend him to someone in need of professional representation. Robert

    Brandon Roseman, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 25, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ryan is staunch advocate. He is always sure to give his clients the time and attention they deserve.

    Michael Phillips, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 18, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Smith is about as professional and prepared as anyone could expect the lawyer to be. Ryan is personable and very easy to approach. He is very polished and he represents the profession extremely well. He is the subject matter expert on many topics and I would be very assured if he were my representation. He is often the first car in the parking lot and the last car to leave. He studies each case as if it were his only case and he then goes to work for that client. I am very proud and pleased to be in the same profession as Mr. Smith and look forward to learning as much as I can from such an astute attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

    Michael Stading, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 17, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Ryan is great advocate for his clients. I highly recommend Ryan to anyone looking for a criminal defense attorney.

    Cost

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      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
        30 minutes
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card