Licensed for 16 years

State NC

Acquired 2007

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Matthew Vernon Silva

Criminal defense Attorney at Jacksonville, NC

About
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Reviews
Cost
Resume

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.

Awards

Client's Choice

2023 2022 2021 + 9 ...

Top Contributor

2020 2019 2018 + 6 ...

Photos and videos

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

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

220 customer reviews

3 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

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 GREG | September 7, 2023

FAST AND FURIOUS REPRESENTATION!!!!

Reached out to Mr. Silva about clearing up an old ticket ( over a decade ago) and he got it reduced and paid off within 48 hours after obtaining him! Feels awesome having this burden lifted off of my plate for so long! Wish I contacted him years ago to represent me on my behalf!

Response from Matthew Silva September 14, 2023

Greg: Glad I could help! If you have any other issues, please do not hesitate to contact us! Thank you for the great review!

Posted by anonymous | September 1, 2023

mans is goated

point blank this dude helped me out. no bs. no crazy talk. straight to the point. professional. very interested in getting you taken care of in the most efficient way possible. fantastic staff, everyone involved was very insightful and kind, answering any and all questions no matter how dumb. mr silva is the man, you can sleep well at night.

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Response from Matthew Silva September 1, 2023

Haha. Thank you very much! I am glad that your situation worked out and hope you can move on without the stress. If you ever need anything, or know someone that does, please do not hesitate to reach out!

Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2023

Full Dismissal

Attorney Matthew Silva was able to have several traffic-related charges dismissed by the pertaining prosecutor. He maintained a professional dialogue with me and attended all of my hearings on my behalf. He maintained my wishes at all times, and ultimately succeeded in my defense.

Response from Matthew Silva August 7, 2023

I am very happy all of your cases were dismissed. I wish I knew who you were so I could thank you personally for this great review. If you ever need help again, please give us a call!

Posted by Dustin | July 28, 2023

4 tickets all dismissed

I had 2 reckless driving, 1 DUI, and a speeding ticket within 2 years of each of each other, it took a little long to get everything taken care of due to scheduling conflicts with me working overseas but Matt had every one of my tickets dismissed. My only complaint was at times communication was subpar with regards to questions I had. I would definitely recommend Mr. Silva and his team for all your legal needs.

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Response from Matthew Silva August 7, 2023

Dustin: Thank you for the great review. I am sorry there were communication problems, but I am happy that all of your cases were dismissed. If you ever need help, or know someone that does, please give us a call. I wish you the best in all your future endeavors!

Posted by Hunter | June 29, 2023

Best Lawyer in Jacksonville

Absolutely the best lawyer to represent you and have in your corner! Mr. Silva had my DUI case completely dismissed and was very professional and up front during the whole process. Anyone who is searching for a lawyer to represent them should hire Mr. Silva.

Response from Matthew Silva June 30, 2023

Hunter: I enjoyed representing you and I am happy that your case was dismissed. These reviews mean a lot to me. Thank you for leaving me a great one! I wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Posted by Wade | June 28, 2023

The best lawyer I’ve ever done business with.

Matt was amazing! He handled my case perfectly. I never even had to step foot in the courtroom. He elevated my stress and got my case dismissed. He went above and beyond to put my mind at ease. It was almost like magic.

Response from Matthew Silva June 30, 2023

Wade: I am very happy I got your case dismissed and thank you for the wonderful review! I know it was a stressful situation. If you, or a friend, ever need anything please give us a call.

Posted by Peter | June 28, 2023

Mr. Silva

Very blessed to have Mr. Silva representing me in my case. Very respectfully, his team Helpful and everyone very professional and percestaint. Thank you for your service. He will represent you in your case if you want someone who will fight for you.

Response from Matthew Silva June 30, 2023

Thank you for the great review and including my staff! It means a lot to them when they see reviews that include them. I am glad your case has been dismissed and I hope you can move forward without the stress!

Posted by Larry | June 27, 2023

Best Lawyer

Mr. Silva helped me with my DUI in a very professional way. Keeping me in the know the whole time and letting me know my options in every situation. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer and a better turn out of the whole thing. I would recommend him for all violations.

Response from Matthew Silva June 27, 2023

Larry, you were a great client to have. I know it got a little nerve-racking toward the end, but todays dismissal was worth it! Thank you for being patient through this process. If you or a friend ever need help, please reach out to us!

Posted by Richard | June 27, 2023

The best lawyer in NC, an absolute force in his field

To say Mr.Silva is a great lawyer is an injustice. Hopefully my review can explain how talented he really is at his profession. I was charged with a DUI, reckless driving, suspended drivers license and an open container. I feel bad admitting that but this review deserves context. Mr.Silva had all charges dropped. Worth every single dollar. He’s a master of his craft and THE best lawyer in North Carolina. There is no other way to put it. I am beyond thrilled with my results. Thank you Mr.Silva and team for the outstanding work!!

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Response from Matthew Silva June 27, 2023

Richard: Thank you for the awesome review. I am very happy this case worked out the way it did. They backed us into a corner and lost! You were a great client and I hope the stress of this whole situation is gone. Take care and remember we are here if you or a friend ever needs us!

Posted by Colby | June 27, 2023

Excellent

Received precisely the outcome desired for my case. The case was also resolved in a timely manner.

Response from Matthew Silva June 27, 2023

Thank you very much, Colby. I am glad everything was dismissed and hope you can move on with your life. If you ever need something, or know someone that does, please do not hesitate to reach out! You were a great client to work with, by the way.

Posted by Rebekah | March 23, 2023

Great

Mr. Silva was highly recommended to me and did exactly what was needed for my case. I appreciate that I never once worried whether he would handle the situation. I recommend him to anyone needing any type of lawyer.

Response from Matthew Silva March 27, 2023

Rebekah: Thank you for the great review! I am happy that your case was resolved and you can move forward with your life. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to call.

Posted by Austin | March 20, 2023

Dwi

My incident occurred in 2021 and almost a year and a half later he was still fighting for me. I’m so grateful when it happened I reached out and talk to other people and I asked him who the best attorney was. They said Mr. Silva, that Monday I called, they was very patient with me getting the money together to be able to pay . I’m glad I got the best there was.

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Response from Matthew Silva March 22, 2023

Austin: I am happy with how your case turned out. Thank you for choosing us! You were a pleasure to work with and I hope you can move on with your future endeavors. If you know anyone who needs help, please do not hesitate to give us a call!

Posted by Duane | March 14, 2023

I was very happy with the outcome of my case. He kept me up to date on the process and my overall satisfaction is great. I would recommend him highly.

Response from Matthew Silva March 14, 2023

Duane: Thank you for the great review! I am happy your case is over with and that you can move on with your life. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me!

Posted by Dennis | March 14, 2023

Legal Stuff

He always has you in in best interest when figuring out your case. Very professional with everything easy to talk to and would absolutely recommend him to someone of they need it. Appreciate what he did for me!

Response from Matthew Silva March 14, 2023

Dennis: Thank you so much for the positive review. I am happy with the outcome of your case and hope that you can move on without the stress of this whole situation. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to call us!

Posted by Robert | March 7, 2023

The best there is

Mr. Silva helped me greatly. I had a driving incident and was looking at the possibility of sever consequences . I contacted Mr. Silva and after we spoke he had me feeling a lot better. Throughout the whole process he kept me updated and continued to explain the law side of things and navigated me through my concerns. At the end he had all the charges reduced to a misdemeanor/fine and everything is good to go. I really can’t say how grateful I am to have found him. I would recommend anyone that needs a defense lawyer to contact Mr. Silva and let him make sure you get the best outcome possible. Thanks again and Semper Fidelis.

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Response from Matthew Silva March 9, 2023

Robert: Thank you for the great review! I know it was a long road but I think your case turned out well! I hope the stress of having this looming is over. Best of luck in all your future endeavors!

Posted by anonymous | February 14, 2023

BEST LAWYER HANDS DOWN

I contacted the office of Matt Silva after getting pulled over. Having a few different charges which could have lost me my license and landed me in jail, Matt was able to get all charges dropped. Highly recommend hiring Matt Silva. Very fair pricing for the results he was able to get.

Response from Matthew Silva February 15, 2023

Thank you for the positive review! I am happy that everything worked out. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2023

Great lawyer

Had a “few” traffic violations that were all dropped because of him. Highly recommended to everyone who is in the area.

Response from Matthew Silva February 13, 2023

Thank you for the positive review. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Posted by anonymous | February 10, 2023

absolutely outstanding Matthew Silva and his team!

During the beginning months of phase 1 of covid, I wrecked my vehicle one night traveling home from work, and I was charged with DWI and lane failure. I casually knew of Mr. Silva, and several other attorneys in the area, through my work. It turns out, he was one of the most recommended by people I know. After my initial conversation with his team - who have been knowledgeable, articulate, courteous, and patient with my calls and questions from the start of this process - he listened to my case and accepted retainer to represent me. From our first meeting he clearly described to me the many factors of my situation, answered all the questions I had, and was realistic and candid in his suggested approach and strategies for my defense. I felt informed about the decisions I made, and trusted in the methods he chose defending me, and proceeded with my case fully in his care. I was updated regularly about progress and his offices would contact me any time there was a development that needed to be evaluated, to be certain of our proceedings. Through his experience, judgment, and execution, my charges were dismissed! My case may have continued longer or been more expensive than some would like, but I would say it was worth every day of continuance, and that I got far more than I paid for. If you must deal with this type of legal situation, I highly and actively recommend attorney Matthew Silva to represent you.

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Response from Matthew Silva February 13, 2023

Thank you so much for the great review. I believe I know this case and I want you to know you were great to work with. I am sorry that it took so long to resolve, but sometimes I just have to wait for everything to align! I am glad everything is dismissed and wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors!

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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

Onslow County Bar Association
President
2023 - Present

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

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Spanish

Romanian

Honors and Awards

10 Best Attorney
American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2017

Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
American Society of Legal Advocates
2017

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

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2016

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2016

Top 40 Under 40
American Society of Legal Advocates
2015

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

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2015

Judicial Edition AV Preeminent Attorney
Martindale-Hubbell
2015

Client Distinction Award
Martindale-Hubbell
2015

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

Top 10 Under 40
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2014

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

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

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

National Dean's List
National Dean's List
1998

View all awards

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

View all speaking engagements

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