Attorney at Law
James E. Smith Jr.
Esq.Counselor. Legislator. Soldier.
Columbia native. USC alumnus. State legislator for 22 years. Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient. A legal career built on a lifetime of service.
About James E. Smith Jr.
A Columbia Native. A Life of Service.
James Emerson Smith Jr. is a Columbia, South Carolina native and the founder of James E. Smith, Jr., P.A. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of South Carolina in 1990 and his Juris Doctor from the USC School of Law in 1995. He is admitted to the bars of South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and New York.
He began his legal career as an Associate at Nelson, Mullins, Riley & Scarborough LLP in September 1995, founded his own firm in November 1996, and later returned to Nelson Mullins as a Partner from 2022 to 2024. Today he continues to practice at James E. Smith, Jr., P.A., bringing more than 30 years of legal experience to every client matter.
Recognition
Awards & Distinctions
South Carolina General Assembly
Legislative Career
22 Years in the South Carolina General Assembly
James E. Smith Jr. was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in November 1996 at age 28. In his first year he was elected Assistant Minority House Leader, then served as Chief Minority Whip before being elected House Minority Leader, a position he held from 2002 to 2005.
Among his legislative achievements, he authored and passed SC First Steps to School Readiness. In 2012 he received The Riley Institute's Wilkins Award for Legislative Leadership, recognising his ability to work across party lines on the most challenging issues facing South Carolina. He served 22 years in the SC House, leaving office in 2018.
Few attorneys in South Carolina have sat in the chamber where the laws they argue were debated and passed. That institutional knowledge is a direct and practical asset to every client the firm represents.
Military Service
Lieutenant Colonel, South Carolina Army National Guard
Following 9/11, James E. Smith Jr. served eight years as a JAG officer in the South Carolina Army National Guard before resigning and re-enlisting to pursue a commission as an Infantry Officer. He served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan with the 218th Infantry Brigade as Team Chief for PMT Viper.
For his service in Afghanistan he was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart. In 2008 he received the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Sergeant William Jasper Freedom Award. He continues to serve as a Lieutenant Colonel in the South Carolina Army National Guard and holds SDVOSB certification as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.
Higher Education & Public Service
University of South Carolina
In 2019, James was recruited back to his alma mater to lead the University of South Carolina's military programmes as Executive Director of Military Affairs. He was subsequently elevated to Special Assistant to the President — a member of the president's cabinet — serving as senior advisor on external relations, advancement, engagement, governmental and community affairs, military programmes, and executive communications.
He also led the Veterans Legal Clinic at the USC School of Law, directing and supervising law students as student practitioners representing veterans facing legal issues ranging from landlord/tenant and family law matters to veterans benefits and claims.
"I have spent my career in service — to my constituents, to my country, and now to my clients. That is not a coincidence. It is a calling."
Legal Practice
The Practice of Law
James E. Smith Jr. brings the same commitment to his clients that he brought to his constituents and his fellow soldiers. His practice spans a broad range of civil and commercial matters, with particular depth in personal injury, business litigation, medical malpractice, and matters affecting veterans and military personnel.
He is especially well-positioned to handle matters involving government entities, regulatory agencies, and public bodies — areas where his legislative and military background provides a decisive advantage. Clients receive direct access to an experienced attorney who understands not just the law, but the institutions that shape it.
Credentials & Admissions
Recognition & Bar Admissions
AV® Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell — the highest peer review rating in the legal profession, reflecting the highest level of professional excellence and ethical standards.
Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).
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Dedicated to Excellence. Committed to Success.
Contact the firm today to discuss your legal matter with James E. Smith Jr. directly.