Legal roots run deep at Carpenter & Carpenter.
Jim Carpenter
Jim Carpenter’s father, a decorated Army captain, was killed in action during World War II. Jim sought professional guidance from his two uncles who were both attorneys.
During law school, Jim served as a staff member for the North Carolina Law Review. After graduating from law school in 1969, Jim joined his Uncle Lewis as an associate at a venerable law firm in Charlotte, NC where he focused on insurance defense. In 1972, Jim crossed the Catawba River into Gaston County to work with the legendary Pat Cooke. Here, he honed his skills as a fierce but fair litigator.
Jim tried hundreds of jury trials, both civil and criminal. He helped people and businesses through crisis situations. In family law, Jim successfully handled thousands of cases involving child custody, alimony and equitable distribution. With 52 years of legal experience, Jim brought a wealth of knowledge to any case until the day he died.
In his free time, Jim loved to play golf, trumpet and guitar. He sang in the choir at All Saints Episcopal Church and served on the Board of Directors at the Gaston Country Club. He loved his family and working with his son Wade, building Carpenter & Carpenter into a formidable law firm.
Wade Carpenter
Wade Carpenter, first worked as a commodities broker before attending law school. During law school, he served as a staff writer for the North Carolina Journal of International Law and Commercial Regulation.
In 2001, Wade returned home to join his father’s law practice. Soon after his return, the father and son team formed Carpenter & Carpenter. Like Jim, Wade fights hard for his clients. He has won a number of civil and criminal jury trials. In family law, he represented parents and grandparents who won custody of their children and grandchildren. In administrative law, Wade has guided law enforcement officers facing termination proceedings as well as employees fighting for unemployment benefits. He often takes on difficult, complex cases that many attorneys turn down. With 22 years of legal experience, Wade is a zealous advocate who understands people as well as the law.
Wade is the past President of the Gaston County Bar Association. He served on the Board of Directors at the Life Enrichment Center and was on the Advisory Board for Legal Aid.
In his free time, Wade loves to cook, fish and travel. He also enjoys photography and hiking.