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Dustin R. T. Sullivan

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Avvo Rating10
  • Bolivia, NC
  • Licensed for 14 years
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About Dustin

Dustin RT Sullivan is a local Brunswick County attorney who has an office right across the street from the Brnswick County Courthouse. As an 8 year President of the Brunswick County Bar, he is a also member of the 13th Judicial District, which encompasses Bladen, Columbus, and Brunswick Counties.

  • 2017 and 2018 Rising Star in NC for SuperLawyers
  • 2015 Nationally Ranked Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2014, 2015 10 BEST Client Satisfaction American Institute of DWI Attorneys
  • 2013, 2014, 2015 Avvo Client's Choice 
  • Superior Nationally Ranked DWI Attorney 2014 by NAFDD
  • 2013, 2014, 2015 Avvo Top Contributer for Criminal Defense
  • 2015 Superb Avvo rating
  • 2013 Shorepicks Finalist for Best Attorney by WilmingtonStar

 

Mr. Sullivan has handled thousands of cases involving criminal defense, taking on a hands-on approach to his clients, dedicating himself to having his clients understand the process of their case. Instead of talking to secretaries and assistants over the phone, Mr. Sullivan encourages a direct mode of communication so clients are more at ease with the pressures that criminal charges cause.

Mr. Sullivan handles a wide variety of cases, ranging from speeding tickets to class B1 felonies. Over the course of his career he has represented a number of clients who make front page news in the Wilmington Star and Brunswick Beacon. Mr. Sullivan has a great deal of trial experience which he brings to the table for each and every client. Focusing his attention to only criminal defense and DWI cases, he fights to make sure his clients' rights are protected.

In 2009, Mr. Sullivan was accepted into the United States Army Reserve JAG Corps. However, after careful consideration and belief in "family first", he thought it appropriate to continue practicing law in the area he calls home.

Prior to becoming an attorney, Mr. Sullivan attended the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio, receiving multiple scholarships in football, academics, community service, and leadership. He played football all four years, where his team finished 18th in the nation for Division1-AA. Mr. Sullivan attended the Appalachian School of Law in Grundy, Virginia where he was awarded for his services in Moot Court and Community Service as well as his membership in multiple organizations.

Dustin Sullivan worked at the Prosecutors Office in Cincinnati, OH for nearly four years and began his career in North Carolina working for the Brunswick County District Attorney's Office and New Hanover District Attorney's Office during and following law school. Mr. Sullivan also was a partner for over three years at Sullivan & Williams focusing on criminal defense.

Dustin RT Sullivan is an active member and strong supporter of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice.

 

Mr. Sullivan's Practice Areas include:

  • Criminal Defense
    • All misdemeanor and felony crimes
  • Traffic Infractions
    • Speeding Citations, DWI's, D.W.L.R. & all other traffic-related matters
  • Misdemeanor Criminal Cases
    • Larceny, shoplifting, assaults, drug possession, B & E, among others.
  • Felony Criminal Cases
    • Felony Larceny, B & E, Motor Vehicle Offenses, Drug Possession, complex financial fraud, embezzlement, among others
  • DWI/DUI Defense
  • Expunctions
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Practice areas

Speeding and traffic ticketCriminal defenseDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 50%

    We go into every DWI case looking for issues that would benefit our clients at trial, rather than seeking a plea. We have won national, state, and local awards for our DWI defense. Our results are proven and show with our client reviews!

    15 years

  2. Criminal defense: 40%

    In every criminal charge we fight diligently for our clients to make the State prove their burden in the case. We always fight for our clients rights in each and every case.

    15 years

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket: 10%

    We strive to seek a resolution in all of our traffic cases that does not add points to our clients insurance rates.

    15 years

Languages spoken

Spanish, English

Photos and videos

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Contact

Sullivan Law, PLLC

3490-3 Old Ocean Highway
Bolivia, NC, 28422

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    AKActive201603/03/2021
    NCActive200704/24/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers979
    Legal guides1
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Rising Star in DWI DefenseSuper Lawyers of North Carolina2017
    Client's ChoiceAvvo2016
    Pro Bono PublicoLegal Aid of North Carolina2016
    Top ContributorAvvo2015
    10 Best Client Satisfaction AwardAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2015
    10 Best Client Satisfaction AwardAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2014
    Top ContributorAvvo2014
    Clients' ChoiceAvvo2014
    Featured as Excellent Attorney Criminal DefenseAvvo2014
    Top 100 DUI AttorneyNational Advocacy for DUI Defense2014
    Finalist for Best Attorney in Cape Fear RegionWilmingtonStarNews2013
    Top Contributor Criminal DefenseAvvo2012
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2012
    Moot Court BoardAppalachian School of Law2006
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    OwnerSullivan Law, PLLC2015 - Present
    Criminal Defense AttorneySullivan & Snow, PLLC2010 - 2014
    Criminal Defense AttorneySullivan & Williams, PLLC2007 - 2010
    Legal AssistantNew Hanover Co. District Attorneys Office2006 - 2006
    Legal AssistantBrunswick Co. District Attorneys Office2005 - 2006
    InternRep. Steve Chabot, United States Congress2001 - 2001
    Victim Advocate/ Legal AssistantHamilton County Prosecutor's Office2001 - 2003
    Legal ClerkDinsmore & Shohl, LLP, Attorneys at Law2000 - 2000
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    13th Judicial DistrictMember2007 - Present
    North Carolina Advocates for Justice, Criminal Defense SectionAssociate Member2007 - Present
    North Carolina ASL AlumniPresident2007 - Present
    13th Judicial District BarPast President2018 - 2019
    13th Judicial District BarPresident2017 - 2018
    Brunswick Co. BarPresident2012 - 2019
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Appalachian School of LawJuris Doctorate2006
    University of DaytonBA - Bachelor of Arts2001
    Anderson High SchoolN/A1997
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Appalachian School of LawStarting Your Own Law Practice2016
    TBDInterpreting for the Courts2013
    Criminal Law PrimerStarting Your Law Firm2013
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    State v. Mercer
    State of North Carolina v. Jenelle Evans23 of 24 charges dismissed or findings of not guilty

    Reviews

    (332)
    5 Star
    		99%
    4 Star
    		1%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		0%
    Review Dustin Sullivan

    Thanks for putting our minds at ease

    Posted by

    We are new to the Wilmington area. My daughter received a speeding ticket just after Christmas. We were worried about the court date because it was scheduled for a date in which she would be in college. I was referred to Mr. Sullivan by a friend who lives in Brunswick County. After speaking with one of his assistants, I was provided the necessary information about how my daughter’s speeding ticket could be handled without her appearing in court. Mr. Sullivan and his team handled the ticket processing within a matter of days, and our insurance rates were not affected. I think the experience taught my daughter a valuable lesson. Thank you for expediting the disposition of the ticket and putting our minds at ease.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Speeding ticket

    Posted by

    Got back to me so fast with proper and direct instructions! Made the process so simple and easy. So happy with my service!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    82mph in a 60mph zone

    Posted by

    Dustin was a huge help. He was able to get my ticket reduced to an Improper Equipment which does not carry any points (Main concern). Greatly appreciated.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Speeding ticket

    Posted by

    I had a relatively hefty speeding ticket and Sullivan law was able to take care of it in a timely manner. Easy to work with, transparent, and inexpensive. Definitely recommend!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Made everything very easy

    Posted by

    Dustin did a great job helping with an unfortunate speeding ticket. He was helpful and prompt.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Thank you

    Posted by

    Dustin was very efficient and professional. He took care of my ticket and followed up to make sure I had no other concerns! Thank you!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent Service

    Posted by

    Mr. Sullivan stayed in contact with me throughout the entire process and succesfully resolved the charge against me. I will recommend his services to my friends if ever needed. Thank you!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    78 mph in a 55 mph zone

    Posted by

    I was driving home to Jacksonville from my job in Augusta, GA. I am a travel nurse working COVID contracts. I was pulled over for going 78 in a 55. The state trooper even wrote the ticket for 78 in a 55 (jerk). After worrying for two days that I was not only going to lose my driver's license, but also my nursing license, I called Dustin's office. He answered the phone himself. After explaining my situation, he told me what he could do and what his fees were. I was happy with both so I paid over the phone. My court date was like 6 or 7 weeks later. I called his office two days before my court date and everything was all set. I did not have to appear because Dustin was appearing for me. Later in the afternoon on the day of the court date, I got an email from Dustin stating that my ticket was reduced to IMPROPER EQUIPMENT so I would not see an increase in my insurance rates. It was the smoothest process I have ever been through and I am so happy nothing went against my insurance or will show up in a background check!!!!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Easy to Work With, Recommended!

    Posted by

    Represented me in court for a speeding ticket. Easy to work with, quick to respond to emails, and overall highly recommended.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent work!

    Posted by

    Dustin has been very helpful on two different occasions. He is efficient and communicates well. I would recommend him if you need someone near the southeast NC coast.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (26)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Bradley Ratliff

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jon Welborn, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 6, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I have known Dustin for 10+ years and endorse him as an attorney.

    William Housley, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 16, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Talented, tough and thorough litigator.

    Christian Lassen

    Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

    Melvin Vaughn, General practice Attorney on Dec 28, 2013
    Relationship: Friend

    I attended Law School with Dustin. While there, Dustin impressed me with his ability to maintain a good work-life balance while still excelling in school. We've remained in touch over the years and, just as I'd suspected back in school, he's become very successful and represents his clients interests very well. Without hesitation, I endorse this lawyer.

    Jason Vaughn, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 26, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Dustin Sullivan is highly respected in Brunswick County. He handles every case with the utmost of professionalism and demeanor client's look for when needing criminal defense. I endorse this lawyer.

    Brian Arthur, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 25, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Dustin is an exceptional attorney in the Brunswick area, and I endorse him in good faith.

    Heather Kaemmer

    I have had the privilege of working with Dustin for the past 3 years. I was an intern with Sullivan & Snow throughout law school and now am an Associate Attorney with the firm. Dustin's mentorship, advice, and training have been invaluable to my legal career. Not only is he the most hardworking and knowledge attorney I know, but he also treats his peers and each client with compassion and respect. I would recommend Dustin to any client who is looking for an attorney that provides direct, honest communication and impressive litigation skills.

    James Blanton, Criminal defense Attorney on May 30, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Dustin is an experienced trial attorney. As a former prosecutor, I handled cases with Dustin, and he always worked very hard for his clients and achieved good results. I endorse him.

    Andrew Snow, Criminal defense Attorney on May 28, 2013
    Relationship: Co-worker

    I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Sullivan and I are the co-founders of Sullivan & Snow, PLLC. Mr. Sullivan is a well known and respected criminal trial attorney and always takes initiative with his client's cases. Mr. Sullivan strives to satisfy all clients and maintains a positive reputation among his peers and the public.

    Samuel Randall, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Apr 30, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Michaela Bostrom, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 2, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Matisyahu Wolfberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 21, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Amy Lawrence, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 23, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I refer Dustin any and all Criminal Defense matters in his area. He is extremely competent and does a great job, getting successful outcomes for his clients.

    Nathan Sweet, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 17, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jonathan Whitehead

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Justin Lovely, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 24, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this attorney.

    Steven Laird, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 22, 2012
    Relationship: Worked for lawyer

    I have worked with Dustin for 3 years. He is an intelligent, hard working and diligent attorney. He gives every client his all. I highly recommend Dustin R.T. Sullivan.

    Fred Martin, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 11, 2012
    Relationship: Co-worker

    Over the last two plus years it has been my great pleasure to work for & learn from Dustin. I interned with Sullivan & Snow, PLLC during summer 2010 & joined the firm as an associate attorney after receiving my license. I have yet to meet another attorney that is as diligent in communicating with clients, regardless of the time of day or concern, as is Dustin! Furthermore, his substantive knowledge of criminal law is but one of many skills & tools he brings to the table on your behalf! Of course my endorsement is apparently biased; however, other respective endorsements from our colleagues will corroborate the fact that Dustin is an exceptional criminal defense attorney!

    Mark Bachara

    I endorse this lawyer.