Trusted Lawyers Serving Smithfield & Clinton, NC
Comprehensive Legal Services Since 1969
When something goes wrong in your life — a car crash, a divorce, a problem at work, or trouble with the law — it can feel like everything is falling apart. The choices you make right after something like that can change your life for years to come. That is why it matters so much to have a lawyer on your side who actually knows what they are doing and who cares about what happens to you.
At Daughtry, Woodard, Lawrence, & Starling, we have been helping people in Smithfield and Clinton, NC solve their legal problems since 1969. Our attorneys go to Johnston County courts on a regular basis and are licensed to practice in both North Carolina state courts and federal courts. We have two offices — one in Smithfield and one in Clinton — so we are always close by when you need us.
North Carolina has its own set of laws that can affect your case in ways you might not expect. For example, NC is one of only a few states that still uses “absolute divorce,” which means there are specific waiting periods before a divorce can be finalized. If you are a farmer or own land in Sampson County or Johnston County, the rules around agricultural property and land transfers can be complicated. And if you are facing a criminal charge in NC, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony can affect your life in a big way. Our attorneys understand these local laws and use that knowledge to help you.
Here Is What Working With Us Looks Like:
Step 1 — Call or Contact Us to Set Up a Consultation
Call or Contact Us to Set Up a Consultation
Reach out by phone or through our website. We will listen to what is going on in your life and explain what your legal options are in plain, easy-to-understand language. No confusing legal talk. No pressure.
Step 2 — We Build a Plan That Fits Your Situation
We Build a Plan That Fits Your Situation
Every case is different. We will put together a legal plan built around your goals — whether that means protecting your kids in a custody case, defending your business in a dispute, or making sure your family is taken care of after you are gone.
Step 3 — We Fight for You — In or Out of the Courtroom
We Fight for You — In or Out of the Courtroom
Our attorneys will stand up for you in negotiations, in mediation, or in front of a judge. We have been doing this for over 55 years, and we know how to get results for the people we represent.
*If you are looking for a trusted law firm in Smithfield NC or Clinton NC, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Explore Our Full Range of Legal Services to Find the Right Attorney for Your Situation
Business Law
Experienced business attorneys resolving complex legal issues promptly and efficiently. We treat your business as our own, offering expertise in formation, litigation, contracts, and more.
Wills & Estates
Expert attorneys offering comprehensive estate planning, wills, trusts, elder law and litigation services. Trust us to protect your interests with skilled advocacy throughout North Carolina.
Suffered a serious injury? Our personal injury lawyers protect your rights and pursue the compensation your family deserves.
Real Estate
Wrongful Death
Criminal Defense
Construction Law
Agriculture
Healthcare Law
Why Families and Businesses in NC Trust Our Legal Team
Kelly Daughtry has been recognized by Best Lawyers in 2025 for her outstanding work in North Carolina. She has spent years helping families in Smithfield and the surrounding area handle some of the hardest moments of their lives — from tough divorces to fights over child custody. She knows the local courts, and she knows how to fight for her clients.
Luther Starling has been recognized by both Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers for his legal work in North Carolina. He has spent decades representing people in Johnston County and beyond. His experience covers a wide range of legal matters, and his record speaks for itself.
Our attorneys show up in Johnston County courts on a regular basis. They know the judges, the local rules, and the best ways to build a case in this area. That local experience makes a real difference when your family or business is on the line.
We have been a part of this community since 1969. That means we have helped generations of families — parents, children, and even grandchildren — with their legal needs. When you work with us, you are not just a case number. You are a neighbor, and we treat you like one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What areas of law does your firm handle?
We handle a wide range of legal matters. Our team helps people going through divorce or child custody issues, people who have been hurt in accidents, people facing criminal charges, business owners dealing with legal disputes, families who want to plan their estates, and people buying or selling property. We also work with farmers, healthcare providers, and construction businesses. If you have a legal problem, there is a good chance we can help.
Q: How long has your firm been serving people in North Carolina?
We have been helping families and businesses in North Carolina since 1969. That is more than 55 years of showing up for our community — in the courtroom, at the negotiating table, and in our clients’ corner when it matters most. A lot of law firms come and go, but we have been right here in eastern North Carolina for generations.
Q: Where are your offices, and what areas do you serve?
We have two offices to make it easy for you to reach us. Our Smithfield office serves Johnston County and the surrounding communities. Our Clinton office serves Sampson County and the areas nearby. Both offices are staffed with experienced attorneys who are ready to help. We are also admitted to practice in North Carolina federal courts, so we can handle cases that go beyond the local level.
Q: How do I get started with your firm?
Getting started is simple. Just call our Smithfield office at (919) 934-5012 or our Clinton office at (910) 299-5087, or fill out the contact form on our website. We will listen to what is going on and explain your options in plain language — no confusing legal talk, no pressure. We offer consultations so you can find out where you stand before you make any decisions.
Q: Do your attorneys speak Spanish?
Yes. We have Spanish-speaking staff available to help. We want every client to feel comfortable and fully understood, no matter what language they speak best. Just let us know when you call or contact us, and we will make sure you are taken care of.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Legal Team
We Speak English And Spanish
Client Testimonials
At Daughtry, Woodard, Lawrence, & Starling, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
“The attorneys and paralegals are all wonderful to work with . No pressure to commit to anything till your ready.”
– W. Hales
– N. Pug