W. James Payne is a fearless criminal trial lawyer.  Mr. Payne is also a retired Colonel of United States Marines, serving his country for over 30 years as a Reserve Officer and very active trial lawyer. 

Mr. Payne's practice is defending the criminally accused in the following venues:  State Court, Federal Court, and Courts-Martial (Military Justice).  Criminal charges include Felonies, Misdemeanors, DUI/DWI, murder, sex crimes, robbery, rape, larceny, computer crimes, military offenses, drug trafficking, drug conspiracy, white collar offenses.

Mr. Payne has such experience in defending the criminally accused that he is one of a very select group of attorneys in North Carolina that are qualified to defend capital (death penalty) murder cases.  Further, Mr. Payne is also qualified to represent defendants in United States District Court that are unable to afford the services of a private attorney.

In the Marine Corps, W. James Payne served as a judge advocate.  He defended Marines and officers from the rank of Private through General on a multitude of differing military justice offense.  Colonel Payne also served five years on the bench as a military judge and several years as the Staff Judge Advocate for the 4th Marine Logistics Group.

An avid Crossfitter, Mr. Payne prides himself on keeping in top physical shape to have the stamina to represent his clients with drive, energy, and enthusiasm.