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James J White

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James J White
James J White
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About James

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. 

Practice areas

DUI and DWIDomestic violenceViolent crimeCriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 28%

    24 years, 4,000 cases

  2. Violent crime: 24%

    24 years, 1,500 cases

  3. Domestic violence: 24%

    24 years, 1,500 cases

  4. DUI and DWI: 24%

    24 years, 600 cases

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Client's Choice 2015
Top Contributor 2014
Client's Choice 2012
Top Contributor 2012

Photos and videos

26202 1323906082

26202 1326221060

26202 1357854449

26202 1357860111

26202 1534879677

Contact

717 TACOMA AVE S.
address map

Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

717 TACOMA AVE S.
Suite C
Tacoma, WA, 98402

Mobile (253) 203-1645
Fax (206) 400-1145

Website

http://www.smithandwhite.com

Kitsap County Courthouse

614 Division St.
Port Orchard, WA, 98366

Mobile (253) 203-1645
Fax (206) 400-1145

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
WAActive199704/29/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers1209
Legal guides10
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
SDL Rated 2016Search DUI Lawyers2016
Lead Counsel Rated 2016Martindale-Hubbell2016
Client Choice Award 2015AVVO2015
Client Distinction Award 2015Martindale-Hubbell2015
Top Contributor 2014AVVO2014
Top 100 DUI AttorneysThe National Advocacy For DUI Defense2013
SDL CertifiedSearch DUI Lawyers2013
Lead Counsel RatedMartindale-Hubbell2013
Superb Ratingavvo2012
Client Choice Award 2012avvo2012
Top Contributor 2012avvo2012
Seattle Municipal Court Panel AttorneySeattle Municipal Court2012
A RatingBetter Business Bureau2011
Excellent AwardAVVO2011
Superb Ratingavvo2011
Class A Qualified Panel AttorneyDepartment of Assigned Counsel2011
Dedication AwardNational College for DUI Defense2010
Valuable ServiceKing County Mental Health Court2004
Lead Attorney King County Mental Health CourtAssociated Counsel for the Accused2002
Felony PositionAssociated Counsel for the Accused1999
Law ClinicSeattle University School of Law1996
Who's Who in Law School StudentsWho's Who Legal1996
Am Jur Evidence LabSeattle University School of Law1995
Rule 9 AttorneyDepartment of Assigned Counsel1995
Who's Who LegalWho's Who in Law School Stusdent1995
99.9% ScoreLaw School Admissions Test1992
Kiwanis ScholarshipKiwanis Club1987
Mathmatics ExcellenceUpward Bound1987
ValedictorianLeggett Valley High School1987
Excellence in EnglishLeggett Valley High School1987
Who's Who in High School StudentsWho's Who1987
Rotary ScholarshipRotary Club1987
Shakespeare ExcellenceUpward Bound Program1987
110% Varsity BasketballLeggett Valley High School1986
4th Place Regional Cross CountryCalifornia Athletics Varsity Cross Country1986
Mathmatics ExcellenceUpward Bound1986
MVP Varsity BasketballLeggett Valley High School1986
Mathmatics ExcellenceUpward Bound1985
MVP Varsity BasketballLeggett Valley High School1985
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
PartnerLaw Offices of Smith & White, PLLC2011 - Present
AttorneyLaw Offices of James Egan, LLC2009 - 2011
Trial AttorneyLegacy Legal, PLLC2006 - 2009
AttorneyAssociated Counsel for the Accused1997 - 2004
AttorneyDepartment of Assigned Counsel1994 - 1997
AttorneyCentro Latino1994 - 1997
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
United State District CourtAttorney in the US District Court2013 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Civil Rights Law SectionMember2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Solo and Small Practice Sectionmember2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Criminal Law SectionN/A2011 - Present
Washington State Bar Association, Litigation SectionMember2011 - Present
Tacoma Pierce County Bar AssociationMember2011 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember2009 - Present
Washington Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2009 - Present
Vashon Island Junior BasketballBoard Member2005 - Present
Washington Defender Associationmember1997 - Present
Washington State Bar Associationmember1997 - Present
King County Bar Associationmember2008 - 2009
American Immigration Lawyers Associationmember2005 - 2006
ABA/Microsoft Immigration Pro Bono ProjectLead Attorney2005 - 2005
Washington State Trial Lawyers Associationmember2004 - 2005
King County Mental Health CourtLead Counsel2002 - 2004
Seattle Municipal Mental Health CourtAttorney1999 - 2002
Casa LatinaLead Attorney1996 - 1998
HOLAExecutive Assistant1994 - 1996
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Tacoma Criminal Lawyer BlogJames White Criminal Law Blawg2016
AVVOField Sobriety Tests for DUIs2012
avvoConstructive Possession and Unwitting Possession2012
AVVOHow to Get the No Contact Order Dropped2012
AvvoSo You Admitted You were Driving2012
avvoWhere You Read Your Rights?2012
AvvoTop Ten Responses to Being Interrogated by Law Enforcement2011
AvvoWhat to Bring to Your Arraignment2011
AvvoStopped for Lane Travel2011
AVVODo You Need to Intend a DUI2010
Law School BulletinArguments Against the Death Penalty1993
Law School BulletinArguments Against the Death Penalty Reply1993
In Your FaceLos Lobos1991
EditorialYear Book1987
Short FictionYear Book1987
Short FictionYear Book1986
School CollectionCoyote1985
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Seattle University School of LawJuris Doctorate1996
Berkeley (CAL): University of CaliforniaBachelor's of Science1991
San Francisco State UniversityMinor1990
California State University, Humboldt State UniversityMinor1990
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Seattle University Legal Externship OrientationReal World Criminal Law2007
Political CaucusCandidate Qualifications2007
Seattle University Legal Extern OrientationReal World Criminal Law2006
Seattle University Legal Extern OrientationReal World Criminal Law2005
Mental Health ConferenceMental Health issues in criminal defense2004
Gains Conference in Las VegasMental Health & Criminal Defense2004
International Judges touring King County Mental Health CourtMental Health & Criminal Defense2003
Baptismal of J.QBaptism2001
CLE PresentationImmigration Update to Criminal Defense2001
Association of College EntrepeneursStudent Representative1990
Leggett Valley GraduationValedictorian1987
Student ElectionsStudent President1986
Interschool Council ElectionsPresident Elections1986
Fort Bragg School Board MeetingExchange Student Program1986
Student ElectionsStudent President1985
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
State v. Alfred G.Not Guilty in under an hour
State v. Joshua E.Client released
3rd DUI in 7 years reduced to Reckless Driving3rd DUI in 7 years reduced to Reckless Driving
2nd Fastest Trial Not GuiltyNot Guilty verdict in under 15 minutes.
State v. Kenny C.New Trial Granted
Multiple Count Robbery 1 with Deadly WeaponCase reduced, client able to join military.
Won 1st Trial as Student in 1996Client Not Guilty
Client Brandished FirearmJudge Dismissed Case. It is legal to brandish a firearm in your own home
DUI reduced and dismissedDismissal

Reviews

(26)
5 Star
96%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
4%
Review James White

Best lawyer in town, maybe the state.

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Spectacular!

Posted by

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!!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Friendly, knowledegable, effective

Posted by

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!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Mr.White

Posted by

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!!!!!!!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
James White's response: Thank you Emily. I am so glad I could help.

Leo S.

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

5 star recommendation

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
James White's response: 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!

Inexpensive and really good at his job.

Posted by

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.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Criminal Defense

Posted by

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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

the gift of life

Posted by

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

Mr. James White, the Epitome of Criminal Defense Counsel!

Posted by

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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Attorney endorsements

(53)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Andrew Huff, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 19, 2011
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.

James Egan, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 8, 2010
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.

Rahul Aggarwal, Real estate Attorney on Feb 28, 2018
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.

Mark Rowe, Mesothelioma and asbestos Attorney on Apr 12, 2017
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.

Keith Fletcher, Car accident Attorney on Mar 15, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

An experienced defense lawyer who can help you in your worst of times.

Ali Ebrahimzadeh, Real estate Attorney on Jan 10, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Mark Clay, Immigration Attorney on Aug 19, 2015
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.

H. Aalsberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 22, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

James White Esq, is a Great Lawyer who gets the Best Results his clients I endorse him.

Mark Girdner, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 14, 2015
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.

Lyle Dickson

I endorse this lawyer.

Philip Israels, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 10, 2014
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.

Mariya Furman, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 3, 2014
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.

Victoria Clemans, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 3, 2014
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.

Shadan Kapri, Divorce and separation Attorney on Oct 8, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer. He is very bright and highly respected in the community.

Dmitriy Shakhnevich, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 29, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Bob Giannini, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 22, 2014
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.

John Phillips, Personal injury Attorney on Sep 20, 2014
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.

Leslie Fourton, Litigation Attorney on Sep 17, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

Lee Hotchkin, Personal injury Attorney on Sep 9, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr White is a very professional and effective criminal defense lawyer.

William Ridings, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Sep 8, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Hovanes Margarian, Consumer protection Attorney on Jul 19, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Waddington, Military law Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse James. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

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    Legal guides written by James White

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