David R. Payne

During high school, I aspired to become an attorney and found myself interning at the Pender County District Attorney's office where Mr. Bowman served as District Attorney. When all of the other legal offices in town turned me away, Mr. Bowman took the time to help me learn how the judicial system wo...rks and to understand the many factors that play into each case. He was kind and knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Fast forward a few years--I hit a tumultuous patch that left me debilitated and shoulder deep in drug charges. I am eternally grateful that Mr. Bowman was the prosecutor of my case. He knew that I had potential beyond the addiction I was caught in and provided me with the best possible outcome. I was able to remain Felony free and was sent to a state-funded rehabilitation center (otherwise I could not have afforded one on my own). He gave me very strict guidelines to maintain my conditional discharge and that deal has saved my life. Not only have I been able to stay drug free (4 years!), thanks to him and the support of many others, I have discovered a new lease on life and fully embrace the opportunity he has given me. The rehab I was sent to is nestled in these mountains that I now call home. It's very exciting to hear that he has also made the transition from the coast to the mountains and is practicing privately. I highly suggest him as an attorney because he will fight for what is just with compassion, empathy, and kindness. Not to mention he he has the coolest mustache in town! I could never thank him enough for all he has done. He is truly a blessing for our justice system.

I worked with Joseph Bowman at the David Payne Law Firm. I am a victim in a case. Joseph is very wise with so many years of experience, he genuinely cares for people and the things that they are going through and wants to help. He gave great advice in how to prepare for trial and I am thankful for th...e positive outcomes that have transpired in result of working with him!! Thank you so much.