DAVIS & DAVIS - Key Persons
A. Michael ("Mike") Davis, Jr., brings his exceptional legal acumen to Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, P.C., joining the Firm in 2023. While Mike is primarily based out of the Firm's Stanly County location, he enjoys traveling to courthouses across the State and has a wide range of counties where he has existing litigation matters pending.
Born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Mike's journey in law began at Elon University School of Law, where he earned his degree in 2021. A Dean's Scholarship recipient, Mike received the most prestigious honor of an Elon Law student by being awarded the David Gergen Award for Leadership and Professionalism. Selected through nominations from his peers, professors, and staff, the award represents Mike's embodiment and dedication to the core values of leadership and professionalism. Notably, during his time at Elon Law, Mike steered the Honor Council as its chairman; presided over the Criminal Law Society as its president; and acted as a guiding mentor for first-year law students.
Mike, known as a trial lawyer, concentrates his practice in the litigation rich areas of criminal defense and family law, where he has a keen eye for unraveling complex cases. Mike has an innate understanding that each client's future is paramount and undertakes each case with a resolute commitment to safeguarding it.
Prior to joining Davis & Davis, Mike served as an Assistant District Attorney in Rockingham County, North Carolina, where he spent the bulk of his time in the courtroom litigating both jury and bench trials. Prior to being a prosecutor, he was a staff attorney in the mass tort litigation practice group of a large firm based in North Carolina. Mike's pre-law experiences encompass a role as a Probation/Parole Officer and a Courtroom Clerk in Mecklenburg County, testifying to his holistic comprehension of the justice system.
A. Michael ("Mike") Davis, Jr., brings his exceptional legal acumen to Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, P.C., joining the Firm in 2023. While Mike is primarily based out of the Firm's Stanly County location, he enjoys traveling to c… Read More
One of the hidden pillars of Davis & Davis, Josh Drye keeps the law firm running efficiently. The grandson of our founder Bob Davis, Josh is a native of Rowan County, graduating from South Rowan High School and Catawba College. Working at the firm for the last four years as the building supervisor and legal assistant, Josh supports the office by organizing and maintaining documents, gathering and arranging evidence, drafting correspondence, filing legal documents, and generally making sure the lawyers and paralegals are equipped to handle cases effectively. While you may not see Josh in your time with Davis & Davis, his integrity and work ethic makes him a valued member of our firm, ensuring that our clients receive the best legal assistance possible.
In his free time, Josh enjoys working out, spending time with his family, and is an avid football fan.
One of the hidden pillars of Davis & Davis, Josh Drye keeps the law firm running efficiently. The grandson of our founder Bob Davis, Josh is a native of Rowan County, graduating from South Rowan High School and Catawba College. Working at the fir… Read More
A retired Sergeant with the Rowan County Sheriff's Office, Chris Crane mans the front desk on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Many years with the Sheriff's Department have given Chris a working knowledge of the criminal justice system in Rowan County and a deep appreciation of those having legal difficulties. Chris is a hard and dedicated worker, and he is of immeasurable help to those seeking legal advice or in a legal crisis. While not working at Davis & Davis, Chris enjoys spending days with his lovely wife Jackie, both having taught Sunday school for five year olds at First Baptist Church for over twenty-seven years.
James A. Davis, II, a third generation attorney, is the son of attorney James A. Davis and the grandson of the firm's founder, Robert M. "Bob" Davis. James began his legal career working for a prominent attorney in Virginia before r… Read More
James is the right choice for the client seeking a blend of experience, academics, peer recognition, and wisdom. His experience includes not guilty verdicts in capital and non-capital murders; $2.29 million and other six-figure civil verdicts; exclusion of the State's premier DWI expert; oral argument in the appellate courts; and scores and scores of high-level federal and state jury trials with an impressive verdict record. His academics include recognition as a Board Certified Specialist in Federal Criminal Law, State Criminal Law, and Family Law by the N.C. State Bar; faculty presenter at 39 CLEs; and visiting lecturer at law schools and the UNC-School of Government. His peer recognition includes an eight-time selection as Super Lawyer; four-time selection to The Best Lawyers in America; selection as "Lawyer of the Year" in DWI Defense in the Charlotte area by The Best Lawyers in America (2021); recipient of the Professor John Rubin Award for legal training; service in governing roles with the N.C. State Bar; and election as past president of the district bar. His wisdom is found in over three decades of practice in high-level criminal, civil, and family law cases across many courts. James loves making a difference in individual lives, particularly when facing complex, high-stakes cases.
James A. Davis, II, a third generation attorney, is the son of attorney James A. Davis and the grandson of the firm's founder, Robert M. "Bob" Davis. James began his legal career working for a prominent attorney in Virginia before returning to North Carolina with the family law firm at Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC.
He concentrates his practice primarily in the areas of criminal defense, especially DUI/DWI defense, and civil litigation. James has gained a favorable reputation, particularly in Rowan County and the surrounding counties, for his knowledge in the area of DUI/DWI defense. As a result, he has acted as a speaker for the Rowan County Criminal Defense Seminar and Criminal Defense Roundtable, educating other local attorneys. James is the author of a manuscript for attorneys regarding the defense of DWI cases involving drug impairment.
James understands that clients facing criminal charges or a civil lawsuit, especially those who have never been involved with the legal system before, have great anxiety about what will happen in their case. He makes it a point to listen to their concerns, give them straightforward answers about what the case will entail, and keep them informed throughout. Many of James' clients have remarked that his clear command of what to do in their case instantly put their minds at ease. In addition to helping clients feel better about what they're facing, James is focused on actually achieving good outcomes for clients. As one client observed of James' representation, "it was the best experience I could have had." Many other clients have expressed similar sentiments.
When not litigating civil or criminal cases, James, a two-time collegiate All-American baseball player, enjoys exercising, going to ball games, and spending time with his family.
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
James is the right choice for the client seeking a blend of experience, academics, peer recognition, and wisdom. His experience includes not guilty verdicts in capital and non-capital murders; $2.29 million and other six-figure civil verdicts; exclus… Read More
Job Titles:
- North Carolina Board Certified Specialist
Jennifer Davis Hammond, daughter of Robert M. "Bob" and Mary Anne Davis, has spent most of her professional life serving clients at Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC. Having served as a paralegal in the firm for sixteen years, Jennifer observed the habits of her father and other successful attorneys, dealt with the needs of clients and eased their concerns, and became intimately familiar with the detailed work of preparing cases for trial. Inspired by how the attorneys around her worked tirelessly to help their clients, she became an attorney herself.
Jennifer is a North Carolina Board Certified Specialist in Family Law with a practice including divorce, custody, child and spousal support, and equitable distribution. She enjoys being able to assist others in their time of need, and is motivated by doing what she believes she is called to do. Jennifer's family law practice allows her to help parents, children, and others, making a significant difference in her clients' lives on a daily basis.
This dedication to the well-being of her clients is reflected in the praise of attorneys and clients alike. Colleagues describe Jennifer as an outstanding lawyer who works tirelessly, never stopping until her client's voice is heard. Clients frequently remark on her effectiveness, responsiveness, and diligence in preparing and presenting their cases. One client describes her as "head and shoulders above her peers in terms of effectiveness, negotiation, courtroom action, and compassion."
When not practicing law, Jennifer enjoys speaking about the law to local students, serving in various church leadership capacities, being active and keeping up with her husband and three children.
Jennifer Davis Hammond, daughter of Robert M. "Bob" and Mary Anne Davis, has spent most of her professional life serving clients at Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC. Having served as a paralegal in the firm for sixteen years, Jenni… Read More
The first smiling face that clients see when the walk through the door, Jordan-Leigh Frank has been a paralegal with Davis & Davis since 2015. Jordan-Leigh, daughter of attorney James Davis, was born and raised in Rowan County and is a graduate of North Rowan High School and Catawba College. Jordan-Leigh understands the stress associated with legal issues. She knows that it is personal and important to you; that is why she makes it a priority to calmly listen and deftly attend to the needs of every client that walks through the doors of Davis & Davis. Outside of work, Jordan-Leigh is active with the middle and high school youth at her church, Destiny City. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and her three children.
Job Titles:
- Paxton Butler Joined Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC, in 2021
For more than a quarter of a century, Mr. Butler has concentrated his practice in criminal law, trying more than 80 jury trials in Criminal Superior Court. He won every jury trial but one since 2008.
Butler worked previously as an Assistant District Attorney in Prosecutorial Districts 22 and 27, covering Rowan, Alexander, Davie, Davidson, and Iredell Counties.
Outside of the practice, Butler enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their three children.
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
Education
University of Memphis, Juris Doctor
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Bachelor of Arts
Paxton Butler joined Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC, in 2021. For more than a quarter of a century, Mr. Butler has concentrated his practice in criminal law, trying more than 80 jury trials in Criminal Superior Court. He won every jury trial… Read More
Job Titles:
- Board of Directors / Secretary 2017
One of the first people many clients meet when they walk through the firm's doors, Stacy N. Montgomery has been a paralegal since 2000, and a North Carolina State Bar Certified Paralegal since 2005. As a paralegal for Davis & Davis, Stacy helps serve clients in criminal, civil, and family law cases. She derives great satisfaction from being able to help clients and make a real difference in their lives, especially when they are going through the difficult experience of a family law matter.
Stacy was a registered nurse who worked with trauma patients for several years, an experience that prepared her well for the chaos of domestic difficulties. She understands that few things are more frustrating than having a question about your case and not being able to get answers, so she makes it a priority to ensure clients get prompt, accurate responses. Clients appreciate her hard work and personal attention, and have said that they could not have gotten through their case without her.
Stacy shares her enthusiasm for her work with local students at school Career Days. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, her children, and her grandchildren.
One of the first people many clients meet when they walk through the firm's doors, Stacy N. Montgomery has been a paralegal since 2000, and a North Carolina State Bar Certified Paralegal since 2005. As a paralegal for Davis & Davis, Stacy h… Read More
Taylor welcomes clients to Davis & Davis. A former clerk with the Rowan County and Davidson County Clerk of Superior Courts, she brings extraordinary knowledge of the court system to the law firm. Taylor uses her considerable multitasking skills and courtroom clerk experience to assist the attorneys and clients.
Taylor was born and raised in Rowan County. She enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and loving her son.
Timothy James Readling joined Davis & Davis, Attorneys at Law, PC, in 2017. Readling was selected to the Rising Stars List in the 2023 edition of North Carolina Super Lawyers in the practice areas of civil litigation and general litigation. Readl… Read More
A former clerk with the Rowan County Clerk of Superior Court, Wendy Shields uses her insight into the Rowan County court system to benefit every client she helps at Davis & Davis. Wendy is a North Carolina State Bar Certified Paralegal. She graduated summa cum laude while receiving her Paralegal Certificate and her Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Liberty University. Assisting in both criminal and domestic matters, Wendy has a wide array of knowledge on many legal topics and is always ready and willing to help a client in need. She knows that every client's case deserves thorough and dedicated attention, and she works diligently to ensure that every client receives the legal help they need. While not working at Davis & Davis, Wendy loves spending time with her husband, Drew, and her children, Charleigh and Liam.
A former clerk with the Rowan County Clerk of Superior Court, Wendy Shields uses her insight into the Rowan County court system to benefit every client she helps at Davis & Davis. Wendy is a North Carolina State Bar Certified Paralegal. She gradu… Read More