James Smith

Practice Focus

James Smith is a VA-accredited Veteran's disability attorney who uses operational precision from military/aviation background. As a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, James is committed to ensuring every Veteran receives the benefits they have earned.

Service to Veterans

Originally from New Jersey, James served as a Marine Air Traffic Control Officer stationed in Okinawa, Japan. After active duty, he attended Rutgers Law School, where he interned with the New Jersey Supreme Court. He later clerked in the NJ Superior Courts and worked as in-house counsel for a private equity firm.

In 2021 James moved back to Japan, accepting a civil service position in Fukuoka, Japan and later serving as an Air Traffic Controller at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Japan. Here is where he saw firsthand the challenges Veterans face when navigating the VA system.

Role at Berry Law

Because of this experience, James is motivated by the opportunity to serve Veterans and to be the passionate advocate in the process who communicates honestly, brings clarity to a complicated system, and helps clients move forward. James is a member of NOVA, reflecting his engagement with the community of attorneys who focus on Veterans' disability advocacy.

James is based in Columbus, Georgia, with his wife, two children and chocolate lab (Bodhi). Outside the office, James is a member of the Veterans Golf Association (VGA) and enjoys spending time connecting with veterans on the golf course.