W. James Payne is the Champion of the Accused

Criminal Defense Attorney in Wilmington, Raleigh, and Asheville, NC

White Collar Crimes | Military Crimes | Serious Felonies

W. James Payne is committed to advocating for your freedom to the court, the prosecution, and the public.

He delivers "Elite", hands-on legal representation to protect your rights, your future, and your name. Now's the time schedule a confidential consultation.

Thousands of Cases Defended

Over 40 Years of Experience

First-Class Comprehensive Representation

W. James Payne is a criminal defense attorney representing Freedom-Loving Human Beings facing White-Collar criminal matters, High-Level Felonies, in state and federal court, and Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) criminal offenses for military personnel. W. James Payne has been local to the Shallotte and Wilmington, North Carolina areas since 1988. W. James Payne retired as a Colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve after 30 years of dedicated service. He had the honor to spend five years of that service as a Judge.

Our Mission and Practice Areas

The W. James Payne Law Firm is unwavering in its commitment to protecting the life, liberty and property of every one of our clients. We will do so tenaciously and professionally while also providing exceptional case management and communication. There is no possibility we will not explore, no defense we will not pursue. Our primary goal, or firm’s lifelong mission, is to aggressively defend to achieve the most successful outcome possible.

  • White Collar Criminal Defense

  • Corporate Criminal Defense

  • Military Crimes Defense

  • Embezzlement Defense

  • Financial Crimes Defense

  • Public Corruption Defense

  • First-Degree Murder Defense

  • Gun Crime Defense

  • Law Enforcement Defense

  • Health Care Fraud Defense

  • Sex Crime Defense

  • Violent Crime Defense

  • Medicare Fraud Defense

  • Child Pornography Defense

  • Environmental Law Defense

  • Breach of Fiduciary Duty Defense

  • General Fraud Defense

  • Judicial Disciplinary Defense

Why Should You Hire W. James Payne Law Firm?

Our Higher Purpose Is To...

CREATE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR FREDOM!

W. James Payne isn’t just a lawyer. He’s the champion for the accused, and that means everything when you’re staring down Federal or State white-collar charges, military charges, or serious felony charges. These are life-changing accusations that threaten your freedom, your reputation, and your future.

That’s why W. James Payne comes to you. He meets with you personally, listens carefully, and asks one crucial question: “What is your goal?”

Delay is danger. Now is the time you need a champion. You deserve concierge, tailored representation. You deserve dignity and respect. You deserve a fearless advocate who will Create for you the Opportunity for Freedom.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Fearless Trial Advocacy

W. James Payne Goes Where You Are!

Dedicated Legal Staff

First-Class Comprehensive Representation

Honest and Straightforward Legal Advocacy

TESTIMONIALS

Real Results for High-Stake Charges

R.G.

Client

Mr. Payne’s skill, relationships within the legal community, and personal concern made a difference in my son’s life. Mr. Payne fought hard and my son has made the most of his second chance.

H.T.

Client

He really cares about his clients and will work fiercely for you. He makes you feel like you are family. His office staff is wonderful also. They are very friendly and professional, and also very efficient.

S.M.

Client

It is in the courtroom where Mr. Payne displays the full complement of his military and legal background through his preparation, his oratory skills, and his unimpeachable knowledge of the law.

Fighting for Your Freedom in Wilmington, Raleigh, and Asheville in North Carolina

If you’re facing serious criminal charges, now is the time to take action. There's too much at stake to leave anything to chance.

Attorney W. James Payne offers direct, personalized legal advocacy when everything is on the line. He will come to you, listen to your concerns, and help set clear, strategic goals for your defense. This is no time to delay—this when you need to get a champion of justice in your corner.

Do Not Wait:

Request Your Highly Confidential Consultation Now!

COMPLETE THE FORM BELOW OR CALL (910) 754-4389 NOW TO GET STARTED!

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