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.
Practice areas
All. Day. Long. High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
DWI/Impaired Driving with High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
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.
14 years
Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.
14 years
Restraining Order Prosecution & Defense / 50B / 50C
14 years
We'll discuss the facts. The offense you're charged with | Your criminal history | The quantity of drugs you had
Looking to get Charges, and potentially Convictions, off your record.
14 years
Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.
14 years
Focuses on Adversarial Proceedings and figuring out creative ways to get results without damaging families.
14 years
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.
14 years
All. Day. Long. High Speeds, Revoked-License, DVM Interlock/Refusal/DWI Hearings, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
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.
14 years
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.
14 years
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.
14 years
Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
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.
14 years
Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
Major Felonies to Misdemeanors, anywhere in North Carolina.
14 years
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.
14 years
Languages spoken
English, Spanish
State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
---|---|---|---|
NC | Active | 2008 | 04/28/2022 |
Legal answers | 199 |
Legal guides | 0 |
Award name | Grantor | Date Granted |
---|---|---|
Super Lawyers | Super Lawyers / Rising Stars (DUI/DWI) | 2018 |
Legal Elite | Business North Carolina | 2018 |
Super Lawyers | Super Lawyers / Rising Stars | 2017 |
Best DWI Lawyers in Charlotte, NC | Three Best Rated | 2017 |
Top 40 Under 40 | The National Trial Lawyers | 2017 |
Super Lawyers | Super Lawyers / Rising Stars | 2016 |
TOP CRIMINAL LAWYER in NC | Business North Carolina's Legal Elite | 2016 |
Top Lawyers | Business North Carolina's Legal Elite | 2015 |
Top 30 Under 30 | Elevate Lifestyle - Charlotte | 2010 |
Associate Editor | Law Review - West Virginia University | 2006 |
Law Review | West Virginia University College of Law | 2006 |
Clinical Law Program Member | West Virginia University College of Law | 2006 |
Certified | LexisNexis & Westlaw | 2004 |
Dean's List | Marshall University, Lewis College of Business | 2003 |
President's Honor Roll | Marshall University, Lewis College of Business | 2003 |
Title | Company name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Managing Attorney | RTS Law Group | 2011 - Present |
Partner | Dillon & Smith, PLLC | 2009 - 2011 |
Partner | Dillon Moore & Smith | 2009 - 2009 |
Associate | Wachovia - Corporate & Investment Banking | 2008 - 2009 |
Law Clerk | MacCorkle Lavender, PLLC | 2006 - 2006 |
Clinical Law Program | West Virginia University College Of Law | 2006 - 2007 |
Association name | Position name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Mecklenburg County Bar Lawyer Basketball League | Commissioner | 2012 - Present |
Western District of North Carolina (Federal Court) | Member | 2009 - Present |
West Virginia Alumni Association | Member | 2007 - Present |
YMCA | Member | 2007 - Present |
Marshall University Alumni Association | Member | 2003 - Present |
North Carolina Advocates for Justice | Member | 2014 - 2015 |
QC Hoops | Sponsor/Coach | 2011 - 2014 |
Mecklenburg County Bar Young Lawyer Division | Member | 2009 - 2012 |
American Bar Association | Member | 2008 - 2008 |
North Carolina Bar Association | Member | 2008 - 2015 |
West Virginia Law Review | Associate Editor | 2006 - 2007 |
Sports Law Society | Member | 2006 - 2006 |
Business and Politics Summer Abroad Program in Brazil | Member | 2006 - 2006 |
Mediterranean Legal Studies Summer Abroad program in Europe | Member | 2005 - 2005 |
Trial Advocacy | Member | 2004 - 2005 |
American Marketing Association | Vice President | 2003 - 2003 |
Phi Eta Sigma | Member | 2003 - 2003 |
Beta Gamma Sigma | Member | 2003 - 2003 |
Alpha Kappa Psi | Member | 2001 - 2003 |
Publication name | Title | Date |
---|---|---|
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 Teams | 2008 |
Albany Law Journal of Science and Technology | Counterfeit Drugs: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly | 2006 |
School name | Degree | Graduated |
---|---|---|
West Virginia University College of Law | JD - Juris Doctor | 2007 |
Marshall University | BBA - Bachelor of Business Administration | 2003 |
Conference name | Title | Date |
---|---|---|
Legal Elite | TOP CRIMINAL LAWYER IN NC - Peer Rated | 2016 |
Super Bowl Preparation | How to Avoid DWI Arrest | 2016 |
Panther's Greg Hardy (NFL) | Greg Hardy (NFL) - Assault Trial | 2015 |
Attorney Continuing Legal Education | DWI/DUI Laws | 2014 |
Sports Law Society | Lawyer League Basketball & Softball | 2014 |
Real Estate 101 - SunTrust Bank | Real Estate | 2010 |
WEF - Corporate & Investment Bank | Deal Partners - Equipment Finance | 2008 |
Sales Conference | 360 Viewpoint | 2004 |
Resident Advisor Welcoming | New Residents | 2001 |
Resident Advisor Welcoming | New Residents | 2000 |
Case name | Outcome |
---|---|
NO PROBABLE CAUSE | Judge Dismissed DWI Charge |
Court Finds No Probable Cause | Case Dismissed by Court |
Court Finds No Reasonable Suspicion | Dismissed charge |
Dismissed DWI | DWI Charge Dismissed |
No Probable Cause | Court Dismissed DWI Charge |
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July 30, 2021
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July 23, 2021
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January 7, 2020
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December 12, 2019
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December 9, 2019
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November 19, 2019
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November 15, 2019
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November 12, 2019
Posted by Jacquie
August 19, 2019
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.
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