About James Franklin
James Franklin Rutherford is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Wilmington, North Carolina. With over 20 years of legal experience, he has dedicated his career primarily to criminal law cases. A native of North Carolina, James laid the groundwork for his legal career by earning a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2001. He then pursued his Juris Doctor at Michigan State University College of Law, where he graduated in 2005. This solid educational foundation gave him the skills necessary to navigate complex legal matters. In 2011, James achieved certification as a specialist in criminal law from the North Carolina State Bar.
This designation shows his expertise and commitment to the field of criminal defense. Additionally, he is certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to administer standardized field sobriety tests, which significantly enhances his qualifications when defending clients in DWI cases. This specialized training allows him to challenge evidence effectively and advocate for his clients' rights. Throughout his career, James has earned recognition for his legal skills and ethical standards. From 2013 to 2015, he was honored as a Super Lawyers Rising Star, a distinction awarded to a select group of attorneys under 40 who demonstrate excellence in their practice. In 2015, he received the prestigious AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which reflects the highest level of professional excellence as determined by his peers.
Such accolades highlight his dedication to providing quality legal representation. James is an active member of the North Carolina State Bar, having been admitted to practice in the state in 2005. His commitment to the legal community extends to his affiliations with the North Carolina Academy of Trial Lawyers and the North Carolina Advocates for Justice. These organizations support legal professionals and advocate for justice within the state, aligning with James's values as an attorney. He operates his practice from 615 Princess Street in Wilmington, NC, where he offers free consultations to potential clients. His areas of practice include criminal defense, drug crimes, DWI cases, and sex crimes — Fluent in English, James is known for his dedication to client service.
Clients frequently praise his communication skills and his commitment to achieving favorable outcomes. By focusing on the needs of his clients, James is known as a reliable advocate in the Wilmington legal community. His experience and specialized training make him a formidable opponent in the courtroom, ensuring that his clients receive the best possible defense.
