John Hunter Smith

John is a lifetime member of the 82nd Airborne Association and the U.S. Army Ranger Association. He served his country as a Staff sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1990 to 1996 and was also an Airborne Ranger, a significant achievement that requires dedication, determination, exceptional mental toughness, and a commitment to excel. The selection process for becoming an Airborne Ranger is highly competitive and rigorous and includes physical fitness assessments, mental aptitude evaluations, specialized training, and evaluation of leadership potential.

John brings these same qualities to his law practice and tirelessly advocates for his clients. Just as he once served his country with honor and distinction, John now serves his clients with the same unwavering dedication and resolve.

With over two decades of experience, John Hunter Smith stands as a resolute defender in State and Federal Courts, having tackled an extensive array of criminal cases with unshakeable dedication. Specializing in all practice areas encompassing criminal law such as DWI, drug charges, sex crimes, violent crimes, theft, burglary, and vehicular crime, John has honed his craft as a formidable advocate for his clients’ rights. Renowned for his tenacity and legal skill, John is not merely a lawyer but a strategist, meticulously preparing to counter prosecutors with facts and expertise. He understands that facing criminal accusations can cast a shadow over every aspect of life – tarnishing reputations, jeopardizing freedom, straining familial bonds, and casting doubt on futures. John tirelessly navigates the complexities of the legal system to secure the most favorable outcomes for his clients. Each case entrusted to him carries a profound weight, one he shoulders with utmost seriousness and determination.

John is a proud graduate of Auburn University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science, in Business Administration and Management. Embodying the spirit of the “War Eagle” mantra, John went on to pursue his Juris Doctorate at Texas Wesleyan University School of Law (now Texas A&M University School of Law).

Since 2008, John has been board certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by less than 1% of Texas Lawyers. He is admitted to practice in Texas, the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas, and the U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit.

John is highly respected in the legal community and noted by his peers as a “fearless and relentless advocate for his clients,” ”an honorable man whose word is his bond,” and that the “passion and care he has for his clients come through loud and clear in a courtroom as do his incredible results.”

He has successfully defended numerous professionals, law enforcement officials, and others accused of State and Federal crimes.

John currently serves as the president of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Association and is a member of the Grayson and Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyers Associations as well as the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He is a Super Fellow of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Educational Institute and a frequent lecturer for continuing legal education programs throughout the State of Texas.

John has been named to Texas Super Lawyers for 11 consecutive years, named “Top Rated Lawyer” by Texas Lawyer, and maintains an AV Peer Review Rating in Martindale-Hubbell. He has also been named to the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers – Criminal Defense” by the National Trial Lawyers Association.

John’s pro bono work includes serving on the Collin County Veterans Court Team in 2022, being a Team Member of the STAR Family Drug Court, and providing legal assistance to the Grayson County Crisis Center.