James Rutherford, Attorney At Law
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James Rutherford, Attorney At Law
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, you are in a race against the clock to fight for your freedom and future. Law enforcement officers and the prosecutor have already started building a case against you, and they have the backing of government resources. James F. Rutherford, Attorney at Law, P.A. is a certified specialist in criminal law, certified by the North Carolina State Bar.

This means that he is well-reviewed by peers, took additional high-level training in this specialty after school, has extensive experience in criminal law, and passed a rigorous exam to become a certified expert in the field. In order to maintain this elite certification, our Wilmington NC criminal defense attorney stays at the leading edge of criminal defense.
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Are you facing criminal charges? If so, then you are now inside the criminal justice system: a complex legal arena where the resources of the government are all leveled against you. In this time when your reputation, rights, and freedoms are at stake, you need a tough, skilled legal advocate who can even the playing field.
James F. Rutherford, Attorney at Law represents both sides of domestic violence defense cases - victims and defendants. Our skilled Wilmington domestic violence lawyer is here to help you no matter your position. We understand the complexities in cases involving domestic violence and we are dedicated to helping you make sure your voice is heard by the courts.
If you are being charged with a drug crime, don't wait to contact a Wilmington drug crime attorney at James F. Rutherford, Attorney at Law, P.A. Before you talk to law enforcement, it's important to know your rights. Contact our team and our Wilmington drug crime attorney can fight to protect you during all stages of the criminal justice system.
North Carolina has some of the strictest DWI laws in the nation. Even for a first-time offense, you may have your license revoked, face jail time, and be subject to fines. Protect your driving privileges and future today by calling our Wilmington NC DWI lawyer at James F. Rutherford, Attorney at Law, P.A.
Sex crimes convictions carry hefty penalties. You could be facing jail time, fines, and registration as a sex offender. Whether or not you believe your sex crime charges are minor, without merit, or an exaggeration, make sure you have aggressive, relentless defense from the start. If you've been arrested or are being investigated for a sex crime, you should not hesitate to call James F. Rutherford, Attorney at Law.
Reviews (9)
Clif Ellison
Clif Ellison
Dec 23, 2021
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Mr. Rutherford did an outstanding job for me. I'm impressed with his professionalism, confidence and dedication to making sure I was treated fairly. His fees were reasonable and he spent plenty of time with me making sure I understood every possible outcome of my particular situation. My outcome was positive and I would definitely recommend him.
Jacalyn Gawron
Jacalyn Gawron
Dec 13, 2021
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Mr Rutherford was excellent! He listened, asked for additional details, was friendly, understanding, professional, efficient, and kept me informed each step of the way!!!
Edward Lewis
Edward Lewis
Nov 26, 2021
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This Law firm without a doubt is the best in the business, if you have anything that you need handled in court Mr Rutherford will bring you the best result within the bounds of the law. I would put my child's future in his hands if it came down to it. DO NOT GO TO COURT NO MATTER HOW BIG OR SMALL A CASE OR INSIGNIFICANT YOU THINK IT IS, WITHOUT GIVING THEM A CALL. I wished there was more than 5 stars, Melissa is also the most caring and detailed person I have ever met, I believe she is as equally important to their success. Great teamwork "Rutherford Law"
Mandy Weber
Mandy Weber
Nov 15, 2021
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My first experience hiring a lawyer was a wonderful one. Mr. Rutherford gave me the right direction and confidence I needed in my case with the outcome we were looking for. I learnt a lot about the process. He is a kind, compassionate, professional man and will look out for you. I would without hesitation not only highly recommend him but would go back to him as my lawyer if ever needed again. Whenever I had a question or concern Mr. Rutherford and Melissa were always happy to help me and put my mind at ease. Thank you both, again, for everything.
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Nicole Wilkinson
Nicole Wilkinson
Aug 25, 2021
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Highly professional, recommend. Tried to pull out all of the stops and was able to get things waived. He was referred to me by my former attorney that is now a Judge. Excellent job. Highly recommend A++++
Lauren Phillips
Lauren Phillips
Aug 18, 2021
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Mr.Rutherford is by far the best attorney I’ve ever had! He is very attention to detail and I could not have asked for a better attorney to represent me!!!
I was looking at some very serious charges and a lot of them and he was thankfully able to get everything dismissed! He was definitely worth every penny!
Thank you so very much Mr.Rutherford you changed my life!!!!
Samuel Spratt
Samuel Spratt
Jun 17, 2021
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Mr Rutherford helped me get out of a massive traffic ticket. If you need anything he’s definitely the guy to call. Very nice and professional guy and I’d definitely recommend him to anyone. The receptionist is also very informative and helped explaining the questions I had very well. Thank y’all for helping me! Well worthy of 5 stars if I could give more I would.
Elisa Martin
Elisa Martin
Mar 15, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Responsiveness
I am definitely impressed with this law firm!! Great communication with the paralegal and the attorney. They explained everything to me and were upfront with the price and information. The attorney kept me informed the whole time. Their office was extremely nice and professional!
Mrs. Pierce
Mrs. Pierce
Feb 11, 2021
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Attorney Rutherford and his staff are very welcoming, family oriented and professional! When a person meets/encounters and/or choose Attorney Rutherford as representation they meet a honest, genuine person with great morals and values which are displayed just by his presence! What people need to know is that he doesn't see and/or judge a person by the situation he represents and see the individual/s as human beings with a situation. His demeanor & personality is calming. He will represent you and perform his duty with integrity and confidence while upholding the law.