Wade M. Smith

Criminal Defense: General Practice

5.0 (1 reviews)

Charlotte, North Carolina

42+ years experience

Updated: Dec 31, 2025

Contact Information

919-821-4711

https://tharringtonsmith.com/our_attorneys/wade-m-smith/

Wells Fargo Building, Suite 1900 150 Fayetteville Street P.O. Box 1151 Raleigh NC US

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Bio

M. Smith is a North Carolina-based attorney focusing on Criminal Defense: General Practice matters. Throughout over two decades in the legal field, Wade M. Smith has developed deep expertise in Criminal Defense: General Practice. Wade M. Smith serves clients through Tharrington Smith LLP's North Carolina office. M. Smith is known for meticulous case preparation and strong advocacy on behalf of clients. Wade M. Smith maintains open communication throughout the legal process, keeping clients informed. Wade M. Smith continues to build a practice in North Carolina based on results and reputation.

Local Legal Snapshot

Jurisdiction

North Carolina

State Capital

Raleigh

Highest Court

North Carolina Supreme Court

Bar Association

North Carolina State Bar

Typical Consultation

$150-$350

Typical Hourly Range

$250-$600/hr

Fee Model Notes

Criminal defense matters are commonly billed flat-fee for defined phases or hourly for complex litigation.

Estimates vary by market, complexity, urgency, and attorney experience.

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense: General Practice

Awards & Recognition

Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: General Practice, Raleigh (2025)
Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: White-Collar, Raleigh (2025)
Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: General Practice, Raleigh (2014)
Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: White-Collar, Raleigh (2013)
Lawyer of the Year: Criminal Defense: General Practice, Raleigh (2010)
Recognized: Bet-the-Company Litigation
Recognized: Criminal Defense: General Practice
Recognized: Criminal Defense: White-Collar
Special Focus: White-Collar Criminal Defense
Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers
Fellow of the American Board of Criminal Lawyers
Top 25 Raleigh Super Lawyers® (2013, 2014)
Listed in Super Lawyers® North Carolina (Since 2006)
Top 100 List North Carolina Super Lawyers® (Since 2006)
Top 10 North Carolina Super Lawyers® List (2006-2010, 2012-2014)
Selected for inclusion in the Bet-The-Company Litigation, Non-White-Collar, & White-Collar Criminal Defense sections of Best Lawyers of America® (1983-2014)
Award for 25 years in Best Lawyers in America (2009)
Lawyer of the Year, Criminal Defense Non-White Collar, (2010, 2014)
Lawyer of the Year, Criminal Defense, White Collar (2013)
H. Brent McKnight Renaissance Lawyer Award (2008)
Business North Carolina Legal Elite
#1 Criminal Lawyer in North Carolina by Business North Carolina Magazine (2004)
Member of Business North Carolina's "Legal Elite" Hall of Fame
Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism Award (2014)
North Carolina Bar Association established the annual Wade M. Smith award "for a Criminal Defense Attorney Who Exemplifies the Highest Ideals of the Profession", (Spring 2008)
University of North Carolina, Distinguished Service Medal Winner (1989)
Wake County Bar Association, Joseph Branch Professionalism Award (1998)
North Carolina Bar Association’s Judge John J. Parker Memorial Award (2015)

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 1983

Education

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, J.D., graduated 1963
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, AB

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Reviews

Sandra Peterson

3 months ago

Outstanding legal counsel for complex white-collar matter

Wade Smith provided exceptional representation during a challenging federal investigation. His 42 years of experience and deep understanding of criminal defense strategy were evident from our first consultation. Having earned Lawyer of the Year recognition multiple times, Wade brought precisely the expertise needed for our white-collar matter. He meticulously analyzed every aspect of our case, explained complex legal procedures clearly, and maintained constant communication throughout the process. His strategic approach and negotiation skills resulted in a favorable outcome that exceeded our expectations. Wade combines old-school professionalism with modern legal insights. I cannot recommend Tharrington Smith LLP highly enough for serious criminal defense matters in North Carolina.