Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
4.9 /5.0
39 Client Reviews
Free Consultation
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PRO
James J White
also known as James White
Virtual Consultation Available
Free Consultation
About James
Biography
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.
24/7! Phones Answered. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation call 253-201-2624
24/7! Phones Answered. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation call 253-201-2624
24/7! Phones Answered. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation call 253-201-2624
24/7! Phones Answered. Hablamos Español. Free Consultation call 253-201-2624
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
DUI and DWI
34%
30 years | 800 cases
Criminal Defense
33%
30 years | 4,000 cases
Domestic Violence
33%
30 years | 1,500 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2023 2012
2016 2015 2014
...
+
3
Licenses
Licensed in Washington for 28 years
State: Washington
Acquired: 1997
No misconduct found
Location
Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC
(844) 331-1637
Fax
717 TACOMA AVE S., Suite C, Tacoma, WA, 98402
smithandwhite.comGallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find James online.
James J White's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 34 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Jane | November 6, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Smart, competent, and kind.
James is not only an excellent lawyer, but also a gem of a human being. He is the one person who makes me re-think all the negative stereotypes about lawyers! He was not only helpful in advising me with regard to multiple cases, but also quite clearly a thoughtful and kind soul. He is a special one!...
Posted by Frederick | May 16, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Mr
Amazing lawfirm. Great job done by James. He’s very knowledgeable and experienced lawyer who will point you to right direction and will go above and beyond to help his clients
Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Phenomenal Experience
I hired James to assist me with a complex DV case. Not only did he provide peace of mind throughout the process, but he also listened thoroughly, responded promptly, and represented me effectively in court. James proved to be a great lawyer and also a bright light in the worst month of my life. I can...
Posted by anonymous | June 13, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Quick and concise.
Help me get a dumb old warrant dropped from out of state. He contacted and discussed with every involved party swiftly. First attorney I’ve hired and hopefully the last .
Posted by Daryl | February 3, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this 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.
James J White's Lawyer Endorsements
"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."
"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."
"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services."
"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."
"An experienced defense lawyer who can help you in your worst of times."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"James White Esq, is a Great Lawyer who gets the Best Results his clients I endorse him."
"James is an experienced, highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill, knowledge and understanding."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"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."
"I endorse this lawyer. A picture is worth a thousand words.. and that is one awesome picture of Mr. White."
"I endorse this lawyer. He is very bright and highly respected in the community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"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."
"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."
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
"Mr White is a very professional and effective criminal defense lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
Keith Fletcher
Personal injury lawyer
Kevin Landry
Unknown lawyer
Michael Waddington
Unknown lawyer
Hovanes Margarian
Unknown lawyer
Lee Hotchkin
Unknown lawyer
Leslie Fourton
Unknown lawyer
Mariya Furman
Unknown lawyer
Philip Israels
Unknown lawyer
Mark Girdner
Unknown lawyer
H. Aalsberg
Criminal defense lawyer
Mark Clay
Immigration lawyer
Cathleen Gormley
Appeals lawyer
Shadan Kapri
Family lawyer
Victoria Clemans
Domestic violence lawyer
Bob Giannini
Personal injury lawyer
Dmitriy Shakhnevich
Personal injury lawyer
John Phillips
Personal injury lawyer
William Ridings
Bankruptcy and debt lawyer
Richard Rosenstein
Car accident lawyer
Valerie Bouffiou
Violent crime lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell®
2023
Client's Choice, Avvo
2023
Superb Attorney, Avvo
2023
Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell
2022
Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell®
2022
Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Kent, Extertise.com
2021
Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell®
2021
Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell®
2020
Top Attorney Award, Attorney.com
2018
Champion of Justice, Campaign for Equal Justice
2018
Client Choice Award, Avvo
2016
SDL Rated 2016, Search DUI Lawyers
2016
Lead Counsel Rated 2016, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Client Distinction Award 2015, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Client Choice Award 2015, AVVO
2014
Top Contributor 2014, AVVO
2013
Top 100 DUI Attorneys, The National Advocacy For DUI Defense
2013
SDL Certified, Search DUI Lawyers
2013
Lead Counsel Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2012
Superb Rating, avvo
2012
Client Choice Award 2012, avvo
2012
Top Contributor 2012, avvo
2012
Seattle Municipal Court Panel Attorney, Seattle Municipal Court
2011
A Rating, Better Business Bureau
2011
Excellent Award, AVVO
2011
Superb Rating, avvo
2011
Class A Qualified Panel Attorney, Department of Assigned Counsel
2010
Dedication Award, National College for DUI Defense
2004
Valuable Service, King County Mental Health Court
2002
Lead Attorney King County Mental Health Court, Associated Counsel for the Accused
1999
Felony Position, Associated Counsel for the Accused
1996
Law Clinic, Seattle University School of Law
1996
Who's Who in Law School Students, Who's Who Legal
1995
Am Jur Evidence Lab, Seattle University School of Law
1995
Rule 9 Attorney, Department of Assigned Counsel
1995
Who's Who Legal, Who's Who in Law School Stusdent
1992
99.9% Score, Law School Admissions Test
1987
Shakespeare Excellence, Upward Bound Program
1987
Mathmatics Excellence, Upward Bound
1987
Valedictorian, Leggett Valley High School
1987
Who's Who in High School Students, Who's Who
1987
Kiwanis Scholarship, Kiwanis Club
1987
Rotary Scholarship, Rotary Club
1987
Excellence in English, Leggett Valley High School
1986
Mathmatics Excellence, Upward Bound
1986
4th Place Regional Cross Country, California Athletics Varsity Cross Country
1986
MVP Varsity Basketball, Leggett Valley High School
1986
110% Varsity Basketball, Leggett Valley High School
1985
Mathmatics Excellence, Upward Bound
1985
MVP Varsity Basketball, Leggett Valley High School
Work Experience
2011 - Present
Partner, Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC
1900 - Present
Member, Smith & White, PLLC
2009 - 2011
Attorney, Law Offices of James Egan, LLC
2006 - 2009
Trial Attorney, Legacy Legal, PLLC
1997 - 2004
Attorney, Associated Counsel for the Accused
1994 - 1997
Attorney, Department of Assigned Counsel
1994 - 1997
Attorney, Centro Latino
Associations
2013 - Present
United State District CourtAttorney in the US District Court
2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Civil Rights Law SectionMember
2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Solo and Small Practice Sectionmember
2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Litigation SectionMember
2011 - Present
Tacoma Pierce County Bar AssociationMember
2009 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2009 - Present
Washington Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2005 - Present
Vashon Island Junior BasketballBoard Member
1997 - Present
Washington Defender Associationmember
1997 - Present
Washington State Bar Associationmember
2008 - 2009
King County Bar Associationmember
2005 - 2006
American Immigration Lawyers Associationmember
2005 - 2005
ABA/Microsoft Immigration Pro Bono ProjectLead Attorney
2004 - 2005
Washington State Trial Lawyers Associationmember
2002 - 2004
King County Mental Health CourtLead Counsel
1999 - 2002
Seattle Municipal Mental Health CourtAttorney
1996 - 1998
Casa LatinaLead Attorney
1994 - 1996
HOLAExecutive Assistant
Sample of 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
3rd DUI in 7 years reduced to Reckless Driving
3rd DUI in 7 years reduced to Reckless Driving
2nd Fastest Trial Not Guilty
Not Guilty verdict in under 15 minutes.
State v. Kenny C.
New Trial Granted
Multiple Count Robbery 1 with Deadly Weapon
Case reduced, client able to join military.
Won 1st Trial as Student in 1996
Client Not Guilty
Client Brandished Firearm
Judge Dismissed Case. It is legal to brandish a firearm in your own home
DUI reduced and dismissed
Dismissal
State v. W.
No jail. Case was reduced and client was granted mental health sentencing alternative.
Education
2022
University of Pennsylvania
Certificate in I.P.
1996
Seattle University School of Law
Juris Doctorate
1991
Berkeley (CAL): University of California
Bachelor's of Science
1991
University of California - Berkeley
BS
1990
California State University, Humboldt State University
Minor
1990
San Francisco State University
Minor
Speaking Engagements
2007
Seattle University Legal Externship Orientation
Real World Criminal Law
2007
Political Caucus
Candidate Qualifications
2006
Seattle University Legal Extern Orientation
Real World Criminal Law
2005
Seattle University Legal Extern Orientation
Real World Criminal Law
2004
Mental Health Conference
Mental Health issues in criminal defense
2004
Gains Conference in Las Vegas
Mental Health & Criminal Defense
2003
International Judges touring King County Mental Health Court
Mental Health & Criminal Defense
2001
CLE Presentation
Immigration Update to Criminal Defense
2001
Baptismal of J.Q
Baptism
1990
Association of College Entrepeneurs
Student Representative
1987
Leggett Valley Graduation
Valedictorian
1986
Student Elections
Student President
1986
Interschool Council Elections
President Elections
1986
Fort Bragg School Board Meeting
Exchange Student Program
1985
Student Elections
Student President
Publications
2025
2023
AVVO Legal Guides
Washington Legal Financial Obligations in Criminal Matters
2016
Tacoma Criminal Lawyer Blog
James White Criminal Law Blawg
2012
avvo
Constructive Possession and Unwitting Possession
2012
avvo
Where You Read Your Rights?
2012
Avvo
So You Admitted You were Driving
2012
AVVO
Field Sobriety Tests for DUIs
2012
AVVO
How to Get the No Contact Order Dropped
2011
Avvo
Top Ten Responses to Being Interrogated by Law Enforcement
2011
Avvo
Stopped for Lane Travel
2011
Avvo
What to Bring to Your Arraignment
2010
AVVO
Do You Need to Intend a DUI
1993
Law School Bulletin
Arguments Against the Death Penalty
1993
Law School Bulletin
Arguments Against the Death Penalty Reply
1991
In Your Face
Los Lobos
1987
Short Fiction
Year Book
1987
Editorial
Year Book
1986
Short Fiction
Year Book
1985
School Collection
Coyote
Languages
English
Spanish
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Top Contributor
James earned significant contribution points in 2016.
Legal Answers
Q&A
What do I do if someone has a video of me masturbating in video call and is threatening too send and post to whole site?
28 Oct 2020
Q&A
HOW CAN i GET MY GUN RIGHTS BACK?
24 Oct 2020
Q&A
Ok so I went in for a UA and it came back that I had meth in my system I told the that I use a inhailer and take NyQuil
23 Oct 2020
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Washington Legal Financial Obligations in Criminal Matters
23 Jan 2023
Legal Guide
Constructive Possession and Unwitting Possession
02 Feb 2012
Legal Guide
Were You Read Your Rights?
12 Jan 2012