Skip to main content

J. Bradley Smith

Criminal defense Attorney at Charlotte, NC

5.0   62 reviews

also known as James Bradley Smith, Brad Smith


Call and speak with several attorneys to find best fit for your specific legal issue.
Can't find what you are looking for?
Avvo has 97% of all lawyers in the US.
Find the best ones near you.
Find Nearby Lawyers

About J.

Learn J.’s areas of practice.

J. Bradley Smith of Arnold & Smith, PLLC is a Charlotte native who has practiced criminal law in North Carolina throughout his career. After graduating law school, Mr. Smith joined the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s office, where he prosecuted both misdemeanor and felony cases. In 2006, Mr. Smith entered private practice, focusing primarily on criminal defense. A graduate of the Trial Advocacy Program at the National Advocacy Center in Columbia, SC, Mr. Smith has extensive trial experience encompassing hundreds of cases in superior and district court in North Carolina. In addition, Mr. Smith has received the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration certification for DWI detection – the same training police officers receive to spot motorists suspected of driving while impaired. Mr. Smith is also a certified operator of the Intoxilyzer 5000, the instrument often used by law enforcement to test for breath alcohol content. In 2011, he was selected by North Carolina Lawyer’s Weekly as one of North Carolina’s Emerging Legal Leaders. Mr. Smith has had several high profile cases that have appeared in the news and he is frequently called upon by the media to provide insight for topics pertaining to the criminal justice system in North Carolina. He has spoken at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, and is a popular lecturer to various civic groups and other Charlotte organizations. J. Bradley Smith has helped countless clients who have found themselves facing criminal and DWI charges. He and his staff are always ready to answer any questions and help formulate a strategic defense based on the individual case.

Photos and videos

View more
Licensed for 18 years
State NC
Status Active
Acquired 2004
Updated 12/27/2022

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

Contact J.

Similar lawyers nearby

Arnold & Smith, PLLC
200 North McDowell Street
Charlotte, NC, 28204

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  62 customer reviews
Posted by Eric | January 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
#1 defense attorney in NC
I had a very unfortunate situation happen in my life because I was charged with an assault. I called Brad Smith immediately, saw me right away and gave me complete peace of mind. The charge got dismissed at court immediately. I highly recommend Brad over all attorneys.
Posted by Jeff | July 2, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI case
I want to thank brad Smith and Jeff Thompson for Their outstanding work and helping me to win my DUI case. And that I highly recommend them for there services. Thanks again!
Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
I was charged with failure to wear seatbelt and crossing left of the center lane. Jeff Thompson was able to obtain a voluntary dismissal of both charges, resulting in no court or legal penalties, no points on my license and no further action required. Jeff posses exceptional legal and overall general business acumen. Very engaged and responsive with excellent communication skill sets. Personable, yet professional. I highly recommend Arnold & Smith for those requiring legal representation.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Relentless
Brad represented me in an appeal of a DUI conviction and walked the judge through use of video and argument why my traffic stop was improper. He was relentless throughout and the judge ruled in our favor. Brad was so persuasive that the judge was semi-chastising the arresting officer after the decision had been rendered. I don’t think I could’ve found anyone better than him and his outstanding assistant Kathryn.
Read less
Posted by Tonia | May 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Master of all matters
Mr Smith is an amazing attorney! He represented me in a matter that I was falsely charged by small town cops. He was patient and professional with me. He also got the charges dismissed!
Posted by Jasmine | March 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer
Attorney Smith is amazing, he made sure that I understood my case with the worst case and best case scenario. He was on my side and made sure that I was not jerked around in court by the DAs, I hope that I never need him again, but if I do...I would choose Attorney Smith again.
Posted by Mark | December 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dui Lawyer
I found Brad Smith online, after reviewing his success, and consulting with him, I decided to hire Brad. I needed defense on an unfair DUI stop and he and his team, went through everything with a fine tooth comb, seeing in evidence what I had been saying all along. Thanks to Brad Smith, my dui charge was dropped from court, and I was able to maintain my job, my visitation with my 6 year old. Thank you so much for all you have done for me!!!!
Read less
Posted by Elizabeth | November 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent results and representation with my case/ J. Bradley Smith Law
James Bradley Smith was recommended to me as one of the top attorneys in North Carolina. After meeting and working with Brad I found this statement to be true, regarding my criminal defense case. He immediately scheduled my consultation. My husband and I were so confident in him after the consultation, that we decided immediately to retain his services for my case on the same day. From what I researched, Brad is known for having an excellent track record in getting the best results for cases that he represents. He is extremely intelligent, well spoken, and highly committed to his clients. He, his Paralegal and staff were very professional, communicated well, gave excellent direction, and were easy to work with. Brad and his staff made me feel very comfortable, respected and reassured. I also found Brad to be a great communicator, extremely thorough and well prepared with my case. I am extremely satisfied with the results regarding the outcome of my case. I highly recommend Brad for legal representation and know you will be happy with his services as well.
Read less
Posted by Mark | November 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent DUI attorney!
Hired Mr. Smith as my attorney for a first time DUI case. He was incredibly helpful and experienced, was easy to contact and I received updates at every turn of the case, and most importantly, had my case dismissed by taking great care of it. I could not recommend anyone else more!
Posted by Michael A Carrera | August 30, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer in Charlotte!!!
My experience with Arnold & Smith stuff was fantastic. Brad Smith, and Kathryn did an excellent job on my DUI case. After 2 years, we went to trial Brad won my case. I was really impressed the way he represented my case in front of the judge. He is a lifesaver. If you are facing any criminal matters, don’t hesitate to contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC. Thank you again for dismissing my case!!!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | July 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DWI
I was charged with DWI in 2014. I had consultations with 2 other attorneys & felt the most comfortable hiring Brad Smith. His services were a bit pricey, but worth every penny! He was extremely knowledgeable about specific judges, officers & the court system in the county in which I was charged. It turned out to be an almost 3 year ordeal, but eventually Mr. Smith was able to get the case dismissed. I didn't even have to appear in court on the day the case was dismissed, I just received a call from Mr. Smith personally informing me it was over. He followed through on everything he said he would do on day 1 & was able to accurately predict what would happen along the way. Laura Cobb also helped with the case & provided excellent services as well. I would certainly recommend Arnold & Smith!
Read less
Posted by Doug | March 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceeded All Expectations
I had never had any experience with the judicial system outside of divorce proceedings. I had never been arrested or had a run in with the law. But when I was arrested and charged with a criminal offense it was extremely traumatic and devastating. As soon as I was able to bond out I researched Charlotte attorneys and after reading reviews of Mr Smith I called his office. His staff took my information and said Mr Smith would call as soon as he was out of court. He called that afternoon and after hearing my story and asking questions gave me advice to follow until we could met in his office. From the initial phone call through office meetings and eventually the court appearance Mr Smith was compassionate, respectful, and most of all highly knowledgeable and accurate in in everything he did. His office staff was always polite, helpful, and respectful. There is a reason Mr. Smith has so many highly positive reviews! I highly recommend Mr Smith and his legal team.
Read less
Posted by PJ | March 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Brad Smith is an outstanding criminal defense attorney
Brad helped my family get through one of the most difficult matters we have ever faced. His knowledge of the law and the legal system, along with his compassion, positive attitude, and confidence, made our case run as smoothly as it possibly could have. Brad put us at ease right from the beginning. He responded to every one of our phone calls and answered all of our questions. He knew our case inside-and-out. His performance in court was stellar. In fact, as we left the courtroom, I heard someone say about Brad, "If I ever need a criminal defense attorney, I'm calling that guy." In short, Brad Smith provided us with the best legal services that we could have asked for. I would recommend him to anyone. _______ Btw, our case got dismissed. Also, I'd like to add that that Brad's paralegal, Kathryn (Katie), did an outstanding job as well, and we greatly appreciate all of her hard work on our case. Many thanks to both!
Read less
Posted by Jennifer Gallman | February 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing...... fast...... PERFECT!
I had a case looming over me since 2014 but was too afraid to deal with it. I finally gained the courage to deal with my issue so that I could sleep at night and gain my life back... and knew I would be dealing with this attorney based on his reviews. I paid him on TUESDAY....and his amazing senior legal assistant Kathryn called me on WEDNESDAY to let me know that my case had been DISMISSED. I am almost certain another attorney could not have given me the same results. He obviously is respected by DAs and judges alike. I will keep him as an attorney for as long as he is practicing in Charlotte NC....... he's the BEST!!!! Hands down!
Read less
Posted by Gary | February 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I highly recommend Brad Smith of Arnold & Smith
I got a DUI January 28, 2015, that was very suspect in the officer's handling of my arrest. I researched and found Arnold & Smith and engaged Brad Smith for my defense. He is professional and thorough and he kept me calm throughout the process which took 2 years and 3 weeks. He had a defense planned out that in my opinion was solid but the officer did not show up in October 2016 and again today February 21, 2017. As a result, the statute of Limitations was up on January 28, 2017, after 2 years, so the case was dismissed. Thanks so much Brad you are a trusted attorney and I highly recommend your services.
Read less
Posted by Jeremiah | January 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Arnold & Smith
I contacted Arnold & Smith law firm for a Dui case and hired Brad Smith. My case went on for 2 years before he was able to have the charges dismissed. Cases such as these are delicate and need time to be worked out. Especially when your livelihood is at stake. I'm glad I hired Brad Smith and his legal team. They were extremely helpful in my case and I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation.
Read less
Posted by Terrence | January 19, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
Brad Smith is the best lawyer in Charlotte. He represented me on a sexual abuse case and returned not guilty verdicts. His team is awesome and very thorough! He took the time and did the necessary research to make sure he knew every detail about the case. I wouldn't recommend any other law office but Arnold & Smith. He literally saved my life.
Read less
Posted by James | January 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I recommend Mr. Smith
I am very satisfied with how Mr. Smith and his team have handled my case. They have been very informative and made the process as easy as possible while getting results.
Posted by Greg | December 29, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Straight Shooter that knows all angles of the law!
After being referred to Mr. Smith, I spoke to him for 15 minutes over the phone and he mentioned EVERYTHING needed for me to rest assured KNOWING that I would be in THE BEST hands! Since this was my first "run-in" with the law and I didn't know much of anything, I met with another attorney before meeting with Brad first that was a referral from a friend. I signed an agreement to work with that attorney when I was there, so I unfortunately will not have the opportunity to have Brad represent me. Though I assume my lawyer will do a great job, too; I am writing this review with a feeling of uneasiness because I KNOW Mr. Smith would have blown this criminal case out of the water! There is only one person in my mind that I (and you) should call with any legal matters that may come up... and that is JAMES BRADLEY SMITH!
Read less
Posted by Michael | September 20, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney!
When I was charged with DUI I had know idea what to do or what attorney I should talk too. When I called Arnold & Smith every person I spoke with was very helpful and friendly. I was kept very informed about any change in my case through the entire trial process and when it came time for Brad Smith to get in front of the judge he did not disappoint. Mr. Smith was extremely professional and knows how to work a courtroom. I highly recommend Arnold & Smith!
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Arnold & Smith, PLLC
  • 2007 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Andresen & Associates, PC
  • 2006 - 2007
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Mecklenburg County District Attorney's Office
  • 2004 - 2006

Education

  • National College for DUI Defense
  • Mastering Scientific Evidence in DUI/DWI Cases
  • 2009
  • NHTSA/IACP
  • Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
  • 2007
  • United States Department of Transportation
  • Evidentiary Breath Alcohol Technician
  • 2007
  • Nationa Advocacy Center - Columbia, SC
  • Trial Advocacy Program
  • 2006
  • Mercer University - Walter F. George School of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2004
  • North Carolina State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2000
View all education

Legal Cases

  • State of North Carolina v. Nance
  • Not guilty
  • State of North Carolina v Felts
  • Not guilty

Associations

  • North Carolina Advocates for Justice
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • 2009 - Present
  • Carr Historic Society, LLC
  • Managing Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Attorney Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • North Carolina State Bar
  • Attorney Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • Mecklenburg County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2004 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Readers' Choice 2013 Best Lawyer in Charlotte
  • Charlotte Observer
  • 2013
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Top 50 Entrepreneur Award
  • Business Leader Magazine
  • 2012
  • NC Outstanding Young Lawyers - Criminal Defense
  • American Registry
  • 2012
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2012
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2012
  • Emerging Legal Leaders
  • North Carolina Lawyers Weekly
  • 2011
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • "Twelve Angry Men" Panel Discussion
  • Legal Perspective on Jury Selection Process
  • 2008

Attorney endorsements

Received (19)
Given (7)
Endorse J.
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Brad. I have known Brad for many years. He has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system with experience as a prosecutor and defense attorney. He is passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brad's reputation speaks for itself. He is an excellent lawyer and extremely knowledgeable in the area of DWI defense. I have seen him take many cases to trial and there is no doubt he is among the best in the State."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Smith is well respected in the legal community and extremely competent. I endorse and recommend this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Well versed attorney and committed to the cause of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brad is an excellent attorney. I routinely refer clients to him for criminal matters and trust him to always obtain the best result through aggressive representation."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brad Smith is a household name all around the state of NC for DWI defense. Having previously been in the DA's Office, he knows the in's and out's of both sides. I pick up something new every time I watch him try a case."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A very experienced and skilled advocate. I recommend him highly."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"One of the best DWI attorneys in Charlotte. Highly recommend."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. I would personally recommend his services to anyone."
Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney | Aug 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse James as a criminal defense lawyer. He is relentless in his pursuit of justice and will go to battle with the prosecution to fight for the rights of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse James. He is an outstanding trial lawyer and a true warrior for justice."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brad is definitely the new hot shot in town when it comes to DWI and Criminal Defense matters. He is very hardworking, extremely knowledgeable and is a tenacious litigator. I wouldn't hesitate one second to recommend Brad to anyone charged with a crime in the Charlotte-Metro area."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Co-worker
"Mr. Smith's work ethic is unmatched. He works hard for his clients and is very forthright and honest with them regarding the realities of each and every situation and his recommendation on how to proceed. He is an excellent trial lawyer and is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Friend
"When a personal friend who is an attorney was charged with DWI in Charlotte and wanted to fight the charge I sent him to Brad."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Smith is a strong lawyer to have on your side for criminal matters. He is extremely gifted and persuasive in criminal and jury settings obtaining favorable outcomes for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Co-worker
"I strongly endorse Mr. Smith. He practices law the right way and treats each case like it is his only case. He strives to give you the best information he can so that you can make the best decisions for yourself. If a plea deal is what is best, so be it. But, if a trial is the better strategy, I think Mr. Smith is one of the best fighters around."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
Speeding and traffic ticket
Bankruptcy and debt
Criminal defense
Charlotte Criminal defense Lawyer J. Bradley Smith
J. Bradley Smith
Criminal defense Attorney
Charlotte, NC
Licensed for 18 years
Free Consultation