Ones To Watch

The Lea/Schultz Law Firm is pleased to announce that Ryan Schultz has been selected by his peers as a “Rising Star” in US News and World Report’s publication of “Best Lawyers in America”.

Jim Lea continues his recognition in “Best Lawyers in America” for the 16th consecutive year as well as a “Super Lawyer” for the 17th consecutive year. Mr. Lea has been “A” rated and recognized in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers in America by Martindale Hubbell (the lawyers rating service) since 1996.

Lea/Schultz continues to be recognized by US News and World Report as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” in the area of Family Law.

Lea/Schultz Law

Wilmington NC’s most experienced and recognized law firm
practicing family and civil law.

James Lea

40 Years of Legal Experience

When important matters are at stake, experience matters. James W. Lea III has 40 years of experience practicing law in the Wilmington, NC area.

Ryan Schultz

Trial Attorneys in Wilmington NC

“Of course you look for a reasonable solution that benefits your client, but if not, you do not want paper lawyers litigating your case.”

 

Child Custody and Visitation

Mary Charles Amerson

Mary Charles Amerson joined the firm as Of Counsel in the Fall of 2020 to assist with the Firm’s general Civil Litigation and Family Law Litigation needs.

 

High Asset and Complex Divorces

High Asset & Complex Divorces

High-asset and complex divorces can dramatically change your standard of living if you don’t protect what’s yours. Hire the right team to be sure you get everything you’re entitled to.

 

Business Litigation Issues

Business Litigation Issues?

You’ve worked hard to build your business and now you’re having some legal issues. We can help.

 

Credibility Matters

Super Lawyers
AV-Preeminent*
Best Lawyers
best law firms 2023
Client Distinction Award
Lawyers.com

Family Law

With 40 years of Family Law experience. Nobody is more qualified to represent your interests.

Business Litigation

Business doesn’t always go smoothly. Sometimes you have to protect your interests. We’ll gladly take it to court if it comes to that.

Estates & Planning

Secure your estate and make sure you’re prepared for the future.

Divorce Attorney Wilmington NC

Wilmington NC Family Law & Divorce Lawyers for 40 Years

Authoritative, Credible, Tenacious Attorneys

The Lea/Schultz Law Firm, P.C., are a group of highly skilled professionals who have the ability to successfully assist our clients with a variety of domestic and family law issues, including high-asset and complex divorces and those involving alimony, child support, child custody and visitation issues. Our firm also handles other forms of civil litigation, including debtor-creditor issues, contract disputes, and estate planning.

Lea Schultz Law Firm

Our litigation practice is led by founder James W. Lea, who has 40 years of experience, 20 of which have been dedicated to domestic matters. Mr. Lea works in tandem with attorney Ryan Schultz, who is experienced in family law, business litigation, civil litigation, criminal law, and estate planning. Our Wilmington divorce attorneys will meet with you to fully understand your situation, carefully explain the process and advise on the best way to successfully resolve your legal issues.

If you are dealing with a complex divorce, civil litigation, or estate planning, establishing a good relationship with your lawyer is vital to the outcome of your case. We understand the importance of attorney-client relationships, so we keep our caseloads small and only choose to work with clients with whom we feel a rapport.

Our skills and experience allow us to serve the needs of the client and custom craft a solution that is right for your specific situation. We are equally confident in the courtroom and at the negotiation table. With an extensive background in civil litigation and domestic law, our lawyers know how to effectively try a case when and if the need arises.

Mr. Lea has previously served as President of the New Hanover County Bar Association, Chairman of the Democratic Party for New Hanover County, and has served on the Board of Trustees for Cape Fear Community College. Mr. Lea is also the past President of the Residents of Old Wilmington, was the Chairman of fundraising for the YMCA and has served on the Board of Directors for the Opera Theatre Company, and on the Board of Directors for the Historic Wilmington Foundation. Mr. Lea also has created and continues to sponsor a scholarship each year at Cape Fear Community College.

An Overview of the Firm

We to Give Back

Meet Our Firm's Attorneys

James W. Lea and Ryan Schultz are committed to our clients and to our community. Mr. Lea's 40 years working in Family Law and Civil Litigation matters, and Mr. Schultz's experience in corporate investigations make for a powerful team. With the combined experience, national recognition and reputation, the attorneys at Lea/Schultz will confidently create a successful resolution for your case.

James Lea

James W. Lea

Ryan Schultz

Ryan Schultz

Hayley Frey

Hayley Frey

Mary Charles Amerson

Mary Charles Amerson

If you have a family law, civil litigation, or have estate and planning needs, we can help. Contact us today.