About Russell Dement
Russell W. "Rusty" DeMent III is a seasoned criminal defense attorney based in Raleigh, North Carolina. He has been practicing law in the state since his admission to the North Carolina State Bar in 1997. As the senior managing partner at DeMent Askew Johnson & Marshall, he leads a firm with a legacy of over a century of cumulative experience in criminal and DWI defense, personal injury, and other legal areas. The firm has established itself as a pillar in the legal community, providing comprehensive legal services to clients across North Carolina. A graduate of Wake Forest University, Rusty earned his Bachelor of Arts in History, cum laude, in 1994. He continued his education at Wake Forest University School of Law, where he received his Juris Doctor in 1997.
His legal career began as an Assistant District Attorney in Wake County, where he prosecuted serious crimes, including felonies and misdemeanors. This experience provided him with invaluable insight into prosecution tactics and trial strategy, shaping his approach to defense work. In 2000, Rusty transitioned to private practice, founding DeMent Askew Johnson & Marshall, where he has since built a distinguished reputation. Over the years, Rusty has successfully defended clients against a range of charges, including DWI, violent crimes, and drug offenses. His commanding courtroom presence and approach have consistently secured favorable outcomes for his clients. Notably, he has handled high-stakes cases that have garnered media attention, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal issues. His commitment to his clients is evident in the time he dedicates to understanding their unique situations and crafting tailored defense strategies.
Rusty's professional excellence has been recognized by his peers through numerous accolades. He has been selected to Best Lawyers in America in the Criminal Defense Practice Section since 2019 and the DUI/DWI Defense Section since 2020. In 2021, he was named Raleigh DUI Lawyer of the Year, evidence of his expertise in this specialized area of law. Furthermore, he has been consistently included in Business North Carolina's Legal Elite and North Carolina Super Lawyers since 2020. He also holds the prestigious AV Preeminent Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and is a Fellow at both the National College for DUI Defense and the Litigation Counsel of America. Beyond his legal practice, Rusty is actively involved in community service. He is a gold sponsor and volunteer for Ducks Unlimited, a conservation organization dedicated to wetland and waterfowl preservation.
Additionally, he serves as a court-appointed special advocate for veterans and the homeless, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community. Rusty is admitted to practice before all North Carolina state courts and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. His office is located at 333 Fayetteville Street, Suite 1513, Raleigh, NC 27601, and he can be reached at (919) 833-5555.
