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James J White

Criminal defense Attorney at Tacoma, WA

4.9   30 reviews

Licensed for 25 years

Virtual consultation available

Free consultation

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%

    27 years, 4,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    30%

    27 years, 600 cases

  3. Domestic violence
    11%

    27 years, 1,500 cases

  4. Expungement
    3%

  5. Military law
    3%

  6. Violent crime
    3%

    27 years, 1,500 cases

24/7! PHONES ANSWERED. HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL. FREE CONSULTATION CALL 253-201-2624

I am happy to talk law all day if you want to talk law all day.  Or I can just keep it simple and easy.  We have a complex and nuanced legal system that works surprising well.  Of course it has flaws and could be better.  But sometimes those flaws can benefit you.  I'll guide you through this dynamic system to get the best outcome for you. 

Awards

Silver Client Champion
Top Contributor 2016,2015,2014,2013,2012
Top Contributor
2016 2015 2014 + 2 ...
Client's Choice 2012
Client's Choice
2012

Photos and videos

Click to actually see us.  The new group on Tacoma Ave.
The original group in the Washington Building.
View more
Licensed for 25 years
State WA
Status Active
Acquired 1997
Updated 03/18/2023

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

Contact James

Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC
Kitsap County Courthouse
614 Division St.
Port Orchard, WA, 98366
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  30 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
3%
Client's Choice 2012
Client's Choice
James received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2012
Posted by anonymous | September 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer in town, maybe the state.
James was very professional, and amazingly prepared. Every court session was in and out with good results every time. Thank you so much James you’re an awesome human being.
Posted by Steven | August 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Spectacular!
James and the office were amazing! I live out of state all away across the country and they took care of me. Stayed in contact and kept me updated throughout the whole thing, and I was even able to text James throughout the process which was awesome because I have a very busy work schedule and can’t talk much. Needless to say my case was dismissed and closed all thanks to him! Highly recommend using them they take care of business!!!
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Posted by Daryl | February 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. White even went out of his way to get the charges dropped early, long after they completed the case.
They completed their agreed service and earned the agreed fees. Mr. White even went out of his way to get the charges dropped early, long after they completed the case.
Posted by Ben | January 29, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Domestic violence case
I’m very pleased with the way James White handled my case. 10/10 Recommend. Everything went very smooth and he explained the processes clearly. Thank you, James
Response from James White February 1, 2023
You are very welcome Ben. Thank you for your review.
Posted by James | January 26, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Hard working & confident
Always working to improve and the kind of confidence that would allow one to give themselves an excellent review. Humble nonetheless. Definitely has benefited from some difficult life experience. Can relate to people in general and clients in particular.
Posted by Joshua | July 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
BEST EXPERIENCE
Words cannot express the emotions I have right now. I put my faith in the Smith and White law firm and because of that I now have my life back. I’ve lived a limited life, baring a 20+ year weight that has kept me from family and enjoying the things most people do on a regular basis. I can honestly say I’m still in shock while trying to process all of these emotions. I HIGHLY recommend this law firm, as they have given me a second chance at life.
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Posted by Rachael | July 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Friendly, knowledegable, effective
James White definitely helped me with my problem. One of things I liked most was his speedy response to my contact during the process. If I had a question or expressed a worry he did his best to make sure I understood the process and to try and make me feel better. He also made sure to handle things during court in a manner that protected my privacy and lead to less embarrassment. I hope I don't ever have to, but I'd definitely use his services again!
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Posted by Emily | July 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr.White
So unfortunately i got myself into some trouble over the Summer and needed some good legal counsel. Mr.White responded back to my text messages at 11 at night. He was very informative and was ready to make an apointment at my earliest convience. I went and met Mr.White and explained to him my situation. He explained my options. After meeting with him, i knew he was perfect for me. Mr. White is HANDS DOWN THE BEST LAWYER. He is swavy in the court and is very relaxed and comfortable. He made me feel compeltly as ease. He is so cool. I truly like him so much. He helped me so much get my life back. If i ever get in trouble again, i will go to Mr.White. dont go to Barbara. Shes out for your money. Mr.white actually cares and is passionate about what he does. I will defintely be keeping touch with him because we developed a good relationship. Im actually really going to miss him. I will always support his Law Office Firm and recommend him to my friends. He truly made a huge turnaround for my life. So yes! Mr.White is truly the best lawyer!!!!!!!!
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Response from James White July 17, 2019
Thank you Emily. I am so glad I could help.
Posted by Leo | December 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Leo S.
James White handled my old case in superior court with expertise and I was very satisfied. All I had to do is show up to one court appointment and at the conclusion of that appearance the Judge gave me two thumbs up and a "good job" comment. Mr. White had a great presence and reputation in court and I felt very confident in his presence. Attorney White was very attentive in every correspondence and very professional. I would highly recommend him, five stars out of five.
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Posted by Leyasha Jones | November 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 star recommendation
Attorney James White was a beacon of hope for me at a time when my options appeared limited and the likeness of a satisfactory resolution seemed close to nothing. Not only was he able to defend me in a specific sticky situation in which I hired him for, I felt as though he also went above and beyond in efforts to provide me with the best outcome possible. His calm and professional demeanor offered such a great assurance to myself and those I care about around me. I am completely grateful for his service and I most definitely recommend Mr. White.
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Response from James White November 24, 2018
Ms. Jones, It was my privilege to help with your sticky situation. I'm glad we were able to keep your professional aspirations on track. Best luck with your schooling!
Posted by anonymous | May 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Inexpensive and really good at his job.
James was the second lawyer I found. My first lawyer, for $1,000, did nothing. When my first thousand dollars was used up, I knew it was going to get expensive. That's when I found James. He was kind and caring, took my calls, answered my Emails and ultimately, won my case. If the proof is in the pudding, then the pudding tastes great. The worst part about lawyers is the cost. James has a very reasonable cost for such a solid record of success. Thank you for all you did for me and my family.
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Posted by anonymous | August 19, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Criminal Defense
Mr James White represented me in a case a while back. Very professional with an outstanding reputation. In the end result the case was dismissed due to strong research and knowledge of Mr James White and his law firm. Highly recommended for anyone looking for the best in representation. I first started out with a cheaper attorney and ended up firing that firm and replaced them with the Smith and Whites law firm. You do get what you pay for.. I give this firm five stars! Lydell
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Posted by Krista | June 25, 2015
the gift of life
James White helped me through a case at which I was looking at 22 years and art the age of 33 that's a life sentence. Mr White stayed professional, calm and reassuring and honestly I couldn't have gotten a better lawyer and I believe it's because of him and at very least he's half of the reason I still have an actual life to live today.Thank you Mr White truly from the bottom of my heart. Sincerely, Krista
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Posted by Steven | April 1, 2015
Mr. James White, the Epitome of Criminal Defense Counsel!
I could have not asked for better representation for my criminal matters/cases. Thanks to Mr. James White's efforts, I have a clean record after 6 criminal charges. He is a very knowledgable and experienced attorney who actually really cared about me as his client. He was with me every step of the way and gave me peace of mind throughout my difficult time. He worked very hard on my cases putting in much effort. Every time I was in a courtroom, it was clear as day that Mr. White was the best defense attorney in that room compared to all the other attorneys. Every time I sat down with him I felt like I was talking to a friend, he always made sure I knew exactly what is going on legally and he was also very kind, caring, and knowledgable. If you looking for a good attorney, this guy really knows what he's doing. He has his own legal practice along with his partner Mr. Derek Smith (Smith & White PLLC). I highly recommend Mr. James White to anyone in need of any attorney, he really did wonders for me and I owe him a huge thank you.
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Posted by Robert | January 28, 2015
Very Professional and Great Service!
I contacted Mr. White with some questions I had. He responded very promptly and gave me great advice. Mr White was a big help to me. Now I refer anyone who needs a lawyer in Washington to Mr. White. He is nice guy and a great lawyer. I highly recommend the legal services of Mr. James White.
Posted by Brandon | September 3, 2014
Dui case
I recently got a charge for a dui about 2 months ago. It was my first offense and blew under a .08. Why I hired Mr. White was not only that his prices were the lowest out of the 5 attorneys i talk to but he actually took the time to explain my situation and made me feel comfortable that I was in good hands even before hiring him. With all the other attorneys i had talked to they were all about scheduling an appointment to consulate me and probably were going to pressure me into hiring them, not Mr. White. When I spoke with him over the phone it was all about how we were gonna beat this dui. Throughout my time with Mr. White all I had to do was absolutely nothing and let him take care of it. If im ever in need of help I will be contacting him again, you should too.
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Posted by Michelle | August 14, 2014
my DUI experience, and retaining counsel.
Mr. James White handled my case with the utmost professionalism, intelligence, wisdom and knowledge. Mr. White & his Law Partner, Derek Smith, both worked on my case, and they both uncovered multiple discrepancies on the opposing side. James White & Derek Smith always kept my mind at rest, and w mercy and suave grace throughout my entire court experience/dilemma. In the the eyes of the law, I had made a bad choice and decision, and sometimes I'm anxious- especially when life gets really real. This team of lawyers, Smith & White; James White & Derek Smith fought the battle for me, and we won. I'm so grateful to them both. I'd give them three thumbs up if I had another thumb. Michelle--thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback.
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Posted by Ally | June 2, 2014
Highly Recommend!
Mr. White helped me so much when I got into some legal problems. He was there right when I called and walked me through the things I didn't understand. James is personable, reliable, professional and was able to get both charges against me dismissed. I highly recommend.
Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2013
queations around harassment/harassment orders
Mr. White is someome I would definetly work with for any legal matter that pertains to his specialty. I spoke with him regarding a matter and he gave me great advice, calmed my nerves and really cared about what I was experiencing. If I ever need an attorney, I will be calling him. He is extremely knowledgable and I would recomend him to anyone.
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Posted by Bonnie | January 23, 2013
Trust in James!
Kind, caring, professional. I highly recommend James White. During my DUI hearings I was scared and anxious. James helped my difficult situation seem more manageable by being very informative and attentive to all my questions and worries. My case was completed and I couldn't have done it without such a great lawyer by my side, thanks James!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.8 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC
  • 2011 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Law Offices of James Egan, LLC
  • 2009 - 2011
  • Trial Attorney
  • Legacy Legal, PLLC
  • 2006 - 2009
  • Attorney
  • Associated Counsel for the Accused
  • 1997 - 2004
  • Attorney
  • Department of Assigned Counsel
  • 1994 - 1997
  • Attorney
  • Centro Latino
  • 1994 - 1997
View all work experience

Education

  • Seattle University School of Law
  • Juris Doctorate
  • 1996
  • Berkeley (CAL): University of California
  • Bachelor's of Science
  • 1991
  • San Francisco State University
  • Minor
  • 1990
  • California State University, Humboldt State University
  • Minor
  • 1990
View all education

Legal Cases

  • State v. C.W.
  • Client received no jail on plea bargain. Instead ordered to continue with treatment.
  • State v. Alfred G.
  • Not Guilty in under an hour
  • State v. Joshua E.
  • Client released
View all legal cases

Associations

  • United State District Court
  • Attorney in the US District Court
  • 2013 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association, Civil Rights Law Section
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association, Solo and Small Practice Section
  • member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
  • 2011 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association, Litigation Section
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Vashon Island Junior Basketball
  • Board Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Washington Defender Association
  • member
  • 1997 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • member
  • 1997 - Present
  • King County Bar Association
  • member
  • 2008 - 2009
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • member
  • 2005 - 2006
  • ABA/Microsoft Immigration Pro Bono Project
  • Lead Attorney
  • 2005 - 2005
  • Washington State Trial Lawyers Association
  • member
  • 2004 - 2005
  • King County Mental Health Court
  • Lead Counsel
  • 2002 - 2004
  • Seattle Municipal Mental Health Court
  • Attorney
  • 1999 - 2002
  • Casa Latina
  • Lead Attorney
  • 1996 - 1998
  • HOLA
  • Executive Assistant
  • 1994 - 1996
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Superb Attorney
  • Avvo
  • 2023
  • Client Champion
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2023
  • Client Champion
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2022
  • Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Kent
  • Extertise.com
  • 2022
  • Client Champion
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2021
  • Client Champion
  • Martindale-Hubbell®
  • 2021
  • Top Attorney Award
  • Attorney.com
  • 2020
  • Champion of Justice
  • Campaign for Equal Justice
  • 2018
  • Client Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2018
  • Lead Counsel Rated 2016
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • SDL Rated 2016
  • Search DUI Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Client Distinction Award 2015
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Client Choice Award 2015
  • AVVO
  • 2015
  • Top Contributor 2014
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Top 100 DUI Attorneys
  • The National Advocacy For DUI Defense
  • 2013
  • SDL Certified
  • Search DUI Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Lead Counsel Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • Superb Rating
  • avvo
  • 2012
  • Client Choice Award 2012
  • avvo
  • 2012
  • Top Contributor 2012
  • avvo
  • 2012
  • Seattle Municipal Court Panel Attorney
  • Seattle Municipal Court
  • 2012
  • A Rating
  • Better Business Bureau
  • 2011
  • Excellent Award
  • AVVO
  • 2011
  • Class A Qualified Panel Attorney
  • Department of Assigned Counsel
  • 2011
  • Superb Rating
  • avvo
  • 2011
  • Dedication Award
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2010
  • Valuable Service
  • King County Mental Health Court
  • 2004
  • Lead Attorney King County Mental Health Court
  • Associated Counsel for the Accused
  • 2002
  • Felony Position
  • Associated Counsel for the Accused
  • 1999
  • Law Clinic
  • Seattle University School of Law
  • 1996
  • Who's Who in Law School Students
  • Who's Who Legal
  • 1996
  • Rule 9 Attorney
  • Department of Assigned Counsel
  • 1995
  • Am Jur Evidence Lab
  • Seattle University School of Law
  • 1995
  • Who's Who Legal
  • Who's Who in Law School Stusdent
  • 1995
  • 99.9% Score
  • Law School Admissions Test
  • 1992
  • Shakespeare Excellence
  • Upward Bound Program
  • 1987
  • Who's Who in High School Students
  • Who's Who
  • 1987
  • Excellence in English
  • Leggett Valley High School
  • 1987
  • Kiwanis Scholarship
  • Kiwanis Club
  • 1987
  • Rotary Scholarship
  • Rotary Club
  • 1987
  • Valedictorian
  • Leggett Valley High School
  • 1987
  • Mathmatics Excellence
  • Upward Bound
  • 1987
  • 4th Place Regional Cross Country
  • California Athletics Varsity Cross Country
  • 1986
  • Mathmatics Excellence
  • Upward Bound
  • 1986
  • MVP Varsity Basketball
  • Leggett Valley High School
  • 1986
  • 110% Varsity Basketball
  • Leggett Valley High School
  • 1986
  • MVP Varsity Basketball
  • Leggett Valley High School
  • 1985
  • Mathmatics Excellence
  • Upward Bound
  • 1985
View all awards

Publications

  • AVVO Legal Guides
  • Washington Legal Financial Obligations in Criminal Matters
  • 2023
  • AVVO
  • Field Sobriety Tests for DUIs
  • 2012
  • avvo
  • Constructive Possession and Unwitting Possession
  • 2012
  • AVVO
  • How to Get the No Contact Order Dropped
  • 2012
  • Avvo
  • So You Admitted You were Driving
  • 2012
  • avvo
  • Where You Read Your Rights?
  • 2012
  • Avvo
  • Top Ten Responses to Being Interrogated by Law Enforcement
  • 2011
  • Avvo
  • What to Bring to Your Arraignment
  • 2011
  • Avvo
  • Stopped for Lane Travel
  • 2011
  • AVVO
  • Do You Need to Intend a DUI
  • 2010
  • Law School Bulletin
  • Arguments Against the Death Penalty
  • 1993
  • Law School Bulletin
  • Arguments Against the Death Penalty Reply
  • 1993
  • In Your Face
  • Los Lobos
  • 1991
  • Editorial
  • Year Book
  • 1987
  • Short Fiction
  • Year Book
  • 1987
  • Short Fiction
  • Year Book
  • 1986
  • School Collection
  • Coyote
  • 1985
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Seattle University Legal Externship Orientation
  • Real World Criminal Law
  • 2007
  • Political Caucus
  • Candidate Qualifications
  • 2007
  • Seattle University Legal Extern Orientation
  • Real World Criminal Law
  • 2006
  • Seattle University Legal Extern Orientation
  • Real World Criminal Law
  • 2005
  • Mental Health Conference
  • Mental Health issues in criminal defense
  • 2004
  • Gains Conference in Las Vegas
  • Mental Health & Criminal Defense
  • 2004
  • International Judges touring King County Mental Health Court
  • Mental Health & Criminal Defense
  • 2003
  • CLE Presentation
  • Immigration Update to Criminal Defense
  • 2001
  • Baptismal of J.Q
  • Baptism
  • 2001
  • Association of College Entrepeneurs
  • Student Representative
  • 1990
  • Leggett Valley Graduation
  • Valedictorian
  • 1987
  • Student Elections
  • Student President
  • 1986
  • Interschool Council Elections
  • President Elections
  • 1986
  • Fort Bragg School Board Meeting
  • Exchange Student Program
  • 1986
  • Student Elections
  • Student President
  • 1985
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (53)
Given (54)
Endorse James
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known James for some time and have personally observed his work in the courtroom. He is truly an exceptional attorney who always represents his clients extremely well."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"Mr. White is a very sharp and persuasive advocate for all his clients. He has a particular knack for convincing prosecutors to negotiate, and has developed relationships with many of them in the King County area. He is a tireless advocate for clients, and is well-versed in the area of criminal and DUI law. He has done countless jury trials, and always makes a good impression in any court."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney James White is a powerful advocate for his clients. He is always prepared and very successful in the courtroom. The client who trusts his case to Justin makes a wise decision, and I highly recommend his work."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An experienced defense lawyer who can help you in your worst of times."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mr. White. Very experienced and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact him for help."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James White Esq, is a Great Lawyer who gets the Best Results his clients I endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James is an experienced, highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill, knowledge and understanding."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney James White is a very active member here in the Avvo community posting accurate and helpful legal answers for folks needing some advice on their case. He is a valuable member in our profession. I fully endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney James White. He gives back to the community by posting excellent legal answers in Avvo for people who have asked for advice on their case. A valuable member in the legal industry."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A picture is worth a thousand words.. and that is one awesome picture of Mr. White."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. He is very bright and highly respected in the community."
Domestic violence Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse James White. James is a knowledgeable and well respected attorney. Plus, he is one of the good guys. Recently I personally sought his advice on a matter of great importance to me. James gave me excellent advice and counsel. I recommend James White to anyone needing effective and thorough representation in the Tacoma - Seattle - Olympia areas. Call James. You will be glad that you did."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"With a great track record of published answers to consumers' questions on Avvo.com and the recommendations from clients and attorneys alike, it is easy to see that attorney White is skilled and knows the law well too. If you have a legal question in his area of expertise, he is your answer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr White is a very professional and effective criminal defense lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements