Matthew Silva - Lawyer in Jacksonville, NC

Matthew Vernon Silva

Criminal defense Attorney at Jacksonville, NC

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Even Police Officers Say He’s the Best!

Mr. Silva represents people from all walks of life. I am someone who has never been in trouble with the law, so when I got my DUI I was beyond devastated and scared. Mr. Silva was honest from the beginning about my options and what he could do for me. He fought hard from the beginning to the end. I was recently rear-ended and the cop ran my license as a formality. Of course my pending charge showed up and he asked who my attorney was. I told him Silva and he goes, “you’ll have no problem. He’s the best”. Well, I found out why they say Mr. Silva is the best. He got my case completely dismissed! If you ever find yourself in legal troubles, Silva is your guy. You won’t regret it.

Best attorney hands down!!!

The charges I was facing would have devastated my family and I considering the chargers were FALSE. I was facing DUI, reckless driving, child endangerment/ child abuse and I got my license taken away. I contacted Mr. Silva immediately, and I was tied up in court for almost a year for serious charges. Mr. Silva went above and beyond to get my charges reduced but he did better than that by getting my case thrown out of court and I was able to walk out. Both Mr. Silva and his office were extremely friendly and professional, My family and I are eternally grateful for the work he has done! And I highly recommend this law firm if you find yourself in any legal issues. Thank you again Matt! Thomas

About Matthew

Learn Matthew’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

35%

16 years, 1,800 cases
DUI and DWI

35%

16 years, 7,000 cases
Speeding and traffic ticket

30%

16 years, 10,000 cases

FORMER PROSECUTORS, EXPERIENCED ADVOCATES.

Mr. Silva is a former Superior Court Prosecutor for Onslow and Jones counties. Having spent several years with the District Attorney's office, Mr. Silva gained tremendous trial experience in all areas of criminal law. In the final three years of Mr. Silva's time as Prosecutor, he completed more jury trials and maintained the highest conviction rate in all of District Four (Onslow, Jones, Duplin and Sampson counties).

Mr. Silva is thorough, yet efficient, when evaluating each case. He has a strong ability to evaluate complex factual scenarios. Mr. Silva is committed to achieving optimal results for his clients through an aggressive litigation strategy.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 15 years

State NC

Status Active

Acquired 2007

Updated 12/27/2022

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

Contact Matthew

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

(910) 378-0258 Office

2416 Commerce Road

Jacksonville, NC, 28546

skalawyers.com

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Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

(910) 378-0258 Office

101 West Main Street

PO Box 1072, 28329

Clinton, NC, 28328

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Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

(910) 378-0258 Office

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC - Real Estate

825 Gum Branch Road, Suite #135

Jacksonville, NC, 28546

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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

201 customer reviews

3 Star

1 Star

Posted by Kaitlyn | October 26, 2018

Even Police Officers Say He’s the Best!

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Response from Matthew Silva October 28, 2018

Kaitlyn: This review made me laugh. Thank you so much for enduring this long process. You were completely awesome to work with and I am happy that your case was finally dismissed. If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to call. Also, (not on this forum) if you get a chance, let me know who the officer was . . . I would like to thank him!

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Posted by Thomas | September 10, 2018

Best attorney hands down!!!

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Response from Matthew Silva September 21, 2018

Thomas: I am so happy the case against you was dismissed. I knew from the beginning that you were actually innocent and I did not want circumstantial evidence to lead the judge in the wrong decision. I enjoyed representing you and thank you for choosing our firm! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

Posted by anonymous | February 1, 2023

Highly recommend for DUI cases

Mr. Silva is a true professional. I knew that I was in great hands the very first day that I sat down with him at his office. You can see and feel his presence in the court room. Job well done sir!

Posted by anonymous | December 9, 2022

Mr. Silva is a professional that gets the job done.

If you’re looking for an attorney that will get you the most favorable outcome for your case, Mr. Silva is your guy! He has proven himself time and time again on a number of different cases for me, some criminal and some traffic. From the consultation to the trial he is up front about everything and he keeps you in the loop with all things pertaining to your case. He is confident in the court room and while other lawyers babble on, he presents a sound defense and picks apart the prosecution’s details. He got every one of my cases dismissed with no penalty. I even had a case outside of his operating area and he referred me a lawyer in that area that was just as ferocious as he is, and that I had the same confidence in, and that got the job done in the same fashion. He is without a doubt the best Attourney in the area.

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Posted by Dawn ambrose | December 6, 2022

Dui,wreckless driving,driving revoked

First off I wanna say the staff are amazing.. Secondly I gotta say Silva is a amazing attorney. WAS facing time on this case but he worked through my case got it to none. If you need good attorney hire him ..He's very up front with worst scenario and doesn't give you false hope . THANK YOU MATT SILVA ON THIS CASE ..

Posted by Brandon | November 29, 2022

Best lawyer around!!

I’ve been dealing with Matt for the last 3-4 years for traffic violations. He’s got me out of every possible thing! I would recommend Matt Silva to anyone that has got in trouble with the law. Thank you again for doing the best work an attorney does and if something slips up again I’ll definitely be calling him again!

Posted by Aaron | November 20, 2022

Marine

Mr. Silva's counsel was extremely professional, helpful, and knowledgeable throughout the deliberation of my case. I always felt confident stepping into the courtroom with Mr. Silva representing me because I knew he had my best interests in mind and would defend me to the utmost of his ability. I am extremely grateful for Mr. Silva's services and would highly recommend his counsel for any DUI/DWI and traffic cases.

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Posted by James | November 17, 2022

DUI Dismissed!

Attorney Matt Silva came highly recommended as an expert DUI lawyer, and he did not disappoint. He, and his office staff, were extremely courteous, punctual and helpful with me. I would highly recommend Attorney Matt Silva to anyone, without hesitation.

Posted by anonymous | September 28, 2022

DUI client

Traffic violations can be very stressful especially if they could potentially directly impact your career. Matt Silva and his team helped me ensure that was not an issue. I couldn’t be more pleased with the result. Highly recommend his service and has my highest endorsement.

Posted by Joshua | September 21, 2022

Traffic lawyer

Matt Silva is by far the best lawyer in Onslow county for traffic related offenses. Mr Silva is knowledgeable up front and did a great a job at communicating every step of the process. His staff was courteous and very helpful any time I had questions or needed assistance.

Posted by anonymous | September 11, 2022

Best Lawyer in Town

Mr. Silva is a very knowledgeable and an efficient attorney. He works for you with the intent of winning your case, is the best lawyer in town & has proven this by beating a lot of cases in the Jacksonville area.

Posted by Jesse | August 11, 2022

If you don’t want to lose, this is your man

I received a terrible DWI at a checkpoint. I hired Matt Silva and he took care of everything….I literally didn’t have to do anything. Normally DWI/DUI’s can linger in the court system for years, I made it extremely clear that my job was on the line and it had to be heard quickly. It only took a few months before my case went before a judge. Mr. Silva did his homework and shut it tf down for me in court and had everyone but me looking stupid. He was able to get my DWI reduced to a much lower sentence. If it wasn’t for him I would have been fired, license gone for a year, and either community service/jail time. Could not have been happier; definitely recommend.

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Posted by Benjamin | May 24, 2022

Jacksonville’s Best Criminal Attorney

Most reviews for attorneys are based on the outcome of the case and I can say that regardless of the outcome of my case, Mr. Silva exceeded my expectations with his dedication, professionalism, honesty, and knowledge of the criminal court system and it’s laws. During the course of my case Mr. Silva and his staff remained in constant communication with me and relayed important information about my case and what I could expect. Mr. Silvia’s study of the law and his vast knowledge of case law makes him a valuable asset to anyone facing a criminal court proceeding. I would highly recommend Mr. Silva and his staff.

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Response from Matthew Silva May 25, 2022

Thanks, man! I am so happy your case was dismissed. I know this was the longest road you had to travel, but I am happy with the outcome. I hope you never need my help again, but if you know someone that does, send them my way! Best of luck on all your future endeavors!

Posted by Barbara | March 24, 2022

Outstanding Performance and Professionalism

Mr. Silva created an atmosphere of confidence and understanding. From the initial meeting, long stents of continuances due to COVID, and through the end Mr. Silva always provided confidence and reassurance to me and my family. A temporary laps in judgement on my part turned into what seemed like a worst case scenario for me and my family. Mr. Silva saw it for what it was, an honest mistake. And with this mindset, he went to work defending me. Through his years of experience, his meticulous attention to detail and methodical execution of judicial procedures, Mr. Silva was able to persuaded the court that forgiveness not penalty was the justice I would receive. Rightfully so, debt was owed to the court in form of monetary payment, but that was the extent of punishment. For this, I can not thank or praise Mr. Silva and his team enough. My family and I are truly blessed to have such a wonderful lawyer and legal team as them. Mr. Silva will always fight for his clients through legal means with results surpassing expectations.

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Response from Matthew Silva March 25, 2022

Thank you very much for the positive review, Barbara! I am happy that your case was resolved favorably and you can move on with your life! Also, thank you for choosing my firm to represent you. It was a pleasure to work with you and I wish the very best in all of your future endeavors. If you ever need any help, or know someone that does, please give us a call!

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Posted by Jennifer | January 18, 2022

Ideal Legal Representation

The ideal vision of legal representation. Absolutely amazing. From reading reviews i know that either your first few words are a yes or a no. For Mr. Silva i can say it's an absolute yes. If you have a hole punched in your boat either: you need someone to help shovel the water out or to repair the hole. In my situation Mr. Silva did both. I am beyond grateful for more than my particular outcome, (which was positive) but his over all attention to my specific circumstances. One thing that became overwhelming apparent is how unfair the system can be to individuals. Mr. Silva and his staff made exceeding effort to understand and validate my individual circumstances. To me that was invaluable. My particular case took 3 yrs to resolve, and during that entire time Mr. Silva and his team treated me as if i had just walked through the door, equally as important and urgent as anyone else. I am so grateful to his service and his entire team from the communication of the front office to himself. Any questions or corcerns i had were met with understanding and answer. At no point during the process did i feel like i was alone or 'in the dark'. I always felt as though i had someone on my side. Mr. Silva dedicated himself and his team for 3 years to ensure that i had the best possible outcome for my situation. When i envision legal representation at its 'ideal' Mr. Silva encompasses that vision fully.

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Response from Matthew Silva February 4, 2022

Jennifer: What an awesome review! Thank you so much for mentioning my staff in this. They try very hard to help everyone and they are the backbone of my firm. Unfortunately, many people overlook their efforts. I am very happy that your case is over and gone. I know it was a long road but I think winning was worth it! I wish you the best of luck in your career!

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Posted by Jon | November 17, 2021

Best in the area!!

Mr Silva has help me with a number of cases, from speeding to DUI. My DUI was dismissed and this was a great relief to me. Every speeding ticket was reduced. My insurance has not gone up! Worth every penny. Would only with Mr. Silva in the future. He is very professional and his team is always available.

Response from Matthew Silva November 29, 2021

Thank you for the great review, Jon. I am happy that we could be of service to you and am pleased your DWI was dismissed. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Posted by Ashley | October 30, 2021

The Absolute Best

Mr, Silva and his team helped me through a time in my life when I made a huge mistake and needed help to get out of it. He does not waste your time, and knows when you have a case he can help you fight. Mr. Silva was incredible helpful, kind, and understanding of my situation, and with his help, I walked away with zero charges and a clean slate. Watching him in the court room was incredibly impressive. He knew the Judge and when to move forward, but also when to stop. I couldn't be more happy and grateful for his help and the outcome. I will always recommend SKA Lawyers, but especially Matt Silva, if I ever hear of anyone in the Onslow County area in trouble because this is a man that will have your back and help you get through it. Thank you again Mr. Silva, I will appreciate everything you have done for me forever.

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Response from Matthew Silva November 15, 2021

Ashley, thank you for the great review! I am very happy that everything was dismissed. I hope you can move on without the stress of this hanging over your head. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to call!

Posted by Jake | October 7, 2021

THE DWI Lawyer

Matt Silva is THE attorney for Onslow County DWI’s. He knows all the judges that you want your case in front of, and the judges/court officials all know and respect him. He successfully defended my own case. I appreciate his professionalism and expertise, they were second to none. Far and above the best DWI lawyer around.

Response from Matthew Silva October 25, 2021

Jake: Thank you so much for the positive review. I am very happy you had a positive outcome and we were able to clear your name. If you ever need anything, or know someone that does, please do not hesitate to give us a call. Again, thank you for choosing us and leaving a great review!

Posted by Robert | October 4, 2021

Professional and informational

During the entire process, Matt Silva has been extremely professional. He has taken time to explain all the circumstances with my case and what it actually means. Most of the paperwork I have received from the state made little sense. Mr. Silva made a point to explain the many options that were available and how they could affect me. He gave his professional opinion, but left the decision for me on how we would proceed. His staff has also handled my case amazingly.

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Response from Matthew Silva October 4, 2021

Robert: I am very happy your case was dismissed. Thank you for the compliment on my staff. We try very hard to provide an exceptional experience in these stressful times for our clients. If you ever need help, or know someone that does, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2021

DUI, Leaving the Scene, and Failure To Report

Aggressive, proficient and on point! Constant counseling on best approach and best actions to take going forward. A true professional in a court room. Mr. Silva was able to get all three of my chargers dropped without question. Additionally, he is doing everything to get it all expunged. He has my highest recommendation.

Response from Matthew Silva October 4, 2021

Thank you so much for this great review! I am very happy that your charges were dismissed. I know it has been a long time, but thank you for being patient! I hope the USMC gives you everything back!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Chairman of Attorney Standards
Onslow County Bar
2015 - Present

Managing Partner
Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC
2014 - Present

Managing Partner
Sweet-Silva Investments, LLC
2012 - Present

Board Member
Albert Ellis Airport Advisory Commission
2020 - 2020

Partner
Silva & Sweet, PLLC
2012 - 2013

Chief Legal Officer
B2G Holding Company, Inc
2012 - 2013

Chief Legal Officer
Dawg Food, Inc.
2012 - 2013

Partner
Silva, Sweet & Kiernan, PLLC
2012 - 2013

Chief Executive Officer
Deppe Pines Memorial Park, LLC
2012 - 2014

Managing Partner
Silva and Sweet, PLC
2012 - 2013

Superior Court Prosecutor
District Attorney's Office
2008 - 2012

Chief of District Court for the 4th District
District Attorney's Office
2008 - 2009

District Court Prosecutor
District Attorney's Office
2007 - 2008

Chief DWI Court Prosecutor
Prosecutor's Office - 4th District
2007 - 2009

Assistant District Attorney
District Attorney's Office, 4th Prosecutorial District
2007 - 2012

Summer Associate
Terry N. Grimes, PC
2006 - 2006

Student Attorney
Elder Law Clinic, Wake Forest University School of Law
2005 - 2005

Assistant Manager & Formulation Chemist
Zeco, Inc.
2003 - 2004

Quality Control Chemist
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (formerly Barr Laboratories)
2001 - 2002

Research Technician
University of New Mexico Cancer Research Facility
1996 - 2001

View all work experience

Education

Impaired Driving Specialists - SFST Instructor's Course
NHTSA Certified Standardized Field Sobriety Test Instructor
2020

NHTSA
Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement
2019

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Certificate in DWI Detection and SFST
2019

NC Bar Association
CLE
2014

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
CLE
2013

NC State Bar
CLE
2012

NC State Bar
CLE
2012

State Bureau of Investigation, Office of Attorney General & Secretary of State
CLE
2011

NC Conference of District Attorneys
CLE
2008

Wake Forest University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2007

University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law
Certificate
2005

University of New Mexico
BS - Bachelor of Science
2000

View all education

Legal Cases

State of North Carolina v. Jyree Dominic Noel
We prevailed on every issue presented to the Court of Appeals. This case also changed the law on evidence and indictments in North Carolina.

State of North Carolina v. Kenis Ray Johnson
We won on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.

State v. Dobbs
We prevailed on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.

Associations

4th Circuit Court of Appeals
Member
2013 - Present

United States District Court
Member
2013 - Present

North Carolina State Bar
Member
2007 - Present

American Bar Association
Member
2007 - Present

Onslow County Bar Association
Member
2007 - Present

North Carolina Bar Association
Member
2007 - Present

Sigma Chi Alumni Association
Member
2000 - Present

Deppe Pines Memorial Park
President
2012 - 2014

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Languages Spoken

English

Spanish

Romanian

Awards

Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
American Society of Legal Advocates
2017

10 Best Attorney
American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2017

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2016

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

Top 100 DWI Attorneys in North Carolina
National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2016

Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in North Carolina
American Society of Legal Advocates
2015

Client Distinction Award
Martindale-Hubbell
2015

Judicial Edition AV Preeminent Attorney
Martindale-Hubbell
2015

Top 40 Under 40
American Society of Legal Advocates
2015

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2015

10 Best in North Carolina
American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2015

Top 100 DWI attorneys in North Carolina
The National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC
2014

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2014

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2014

Who's Who Among Students In American Universities & Colleges
Who's Who
1998

National Dean's List
National Dean's List
1998

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Publications

Journal of Peptide Research
Novel Cyclic Peptide Inhibits Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1-mediated Cell Aggregation.
2001

Abstract. Blood. 94 (Supplement): 429a
Development of Cyclic Peptide Inhibitor of LFA-1 Binding to ICAM-1
1999

Speaking Engagements

Coastal Carolina Paralegal Studies
Law Practice Management
2016

Consigliere Night
Criminal Defense, Family Law, & Corporations
2014

BLET Mock Trials
BLET Mock Trials
2013

North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training
Courtroom Skills: Proving Your Case
2012

BLET Finals
BLET Mock Trials
2012

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Attorney endorsements

Received (50)

Given (74)

Endorse Matthew

Grayson Cheek

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I had the pleasure to work opposite of Matt when he worked in the District Attorney’s office. We tried a 2-day jury trial. At all times Matt was professional and, honestly, friendly. He knew the strengths and weaknesses of his case and I knew mine. As a career defense attorney, I appreciated his demeanor and I knew it would serve him well if he ever ventured into private practice. Now that Matt is practicing criminal defense, I feel comfortable and I have full confidence in referring those seeking my help to him for matters in Onslow County. He’s one of the great ones."

Mark Rowe

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Matthew Vernon Silva is a powerful advocate for his clients. He is always prepared and very successful in the courtroom. The client who trusts his case to Matthew makes a wise decision, and I highly recommend his work."

Channika Desilva

DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Silva is a well-regarded and driven attorney who has provided exceptional legal representation to numerous clients throughout the U.S. With his extensive knowledge, broad experience and impressive professional skills, he is bound to invest his time and energy into achieving the best outcome for each case, regardless of its level of complexity."

Gregory Cade

Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Matthew is undoubtedly a top notch attorney who has skillfully mastered his primary area of practice over the course of his professional experience. His sharp critical thinking and flawless work ethic are perhaps the key qualities which ensured the success of a remarkable number of his cases. I endorse this lawyer and encourage anyone who needs superior legal representation to opt for his services."

George Collins

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. We are members of the local bar and I have watched Mr. Silva in practice since he began. He is one outstanding lawyer, gentleman and scholar. I endorse him with greatest of confidence."

James Jordan

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. It is my understanding that having worked in the district attorney's office is highly beneficial to any criminal defense attorney. I endorse this lawyer for his skill and thoughtfulness to clients."

Mark Clay

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Silva. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."

Jonathan Lacour

DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Quality representation and exceptional attentiveness to clients. One of the absolute best for DUIs"

Donald Christian

Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Matt is a former prosecutor who excels at representing his clients. He is an excellent attorney."

John Elbert

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Matt is an experienced, highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill,knowledge and understanding.i can readily endorse him without hesitation or reservation."

Mark Murad

Unknown Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a great attorney!"

Dane Scalise

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Every now and again, you meet someone that you just KNOW has it all together. Mr. Silva is one of those people. It is clear that he is both very intelligent and capable. I certainly endorse him for a variety of practice areas, including criminal defense."

Eric Kopka

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Silva is a true professional who devotes countless time and effort in zealously representing his clients."

Elizabeth Carpenter

Unknown Attorney | Dec 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Cheryl Wulf

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Nov 24
Relationship: Other

"This lawyer is aggressive, knowledgeable and provides excellent services."

Michael Birchmore

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Silva is well known for his experience and ability to get great results for his clients. I highly recommend him to those in need of an effective lawyer."

Vance Davis

Unknown Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Silva is a skilled and talented lawyer as is demonstrated in his many fine contributions to the Avvo community. Having read many of his comments in the Avvo Q&A forum, I would not have any hesitation relying on his legal services and professional guidance."

Dmitriy Shakhnevich

Unknown Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kenneth Love

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Silva spends a great deal of time sharing his legal expertise with the community. He is a first choice selection for anyone needing representation in Eastern North Carolina."

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Grayson Cheek

Criminal defense

George Collins

Personal injury

Channika Desilva

Mesothelioma and asbestos

Gregory Cade

Mesothelioma and asbestos

James Jordan

Criminal defense