James J White

Criminal defense Attorney at Tacoma, WA

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Reviews
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Resume

Best lawyer in town, maybe the state.

Spectacular!

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

50%

27 years, 4,000 cases
DUI and DWI

30%

27 years, 600 cases
Domestic violence

11%

27 years, 1,500 cases
Expungement

3%
Military law

3%
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

Top Contributor

2016 2015 2014 + 2 ...

Client's Choice

2012

Photos and videos

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

(253) 201-2624 Office

(844) 331-1637 Fax

717 TACOMA AVE S.

Suite C

Tacoma, WA, 98402

smithandwhite.com

Message Get Directions

Kitsap County Courthouse

(253) 201-2624 Mobile

(206) 400-1145 Fax

614 Division St.

Port Orchard, WA, 98366

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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

30 customer reviews

5 Star

97%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

James received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2012

Posted by anonymous | September 4, 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

Tacoma Criminal Lawyer Blog
James White Criminal Law Blawg
2016

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

Andrew Huff

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."

James Egan

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."

Rahul Aggarwal

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."

Mark Rowe

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."

Keith Fletcher

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Ali Ebrahimzadeh

Unknown Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Clay

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."

H. Aalsberg

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."

Mark Girdner

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."

Lyle Dickson

Unknown Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Philip Israels

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."

Mariya Furman

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."

Victoria Clemans

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."

Shadan Kapri

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Other

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

Dmitriy Shakhnevich

Domestic violence Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Bob Giannini

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."

John Phillips

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."