About Byers Law
Legal issues are complex, and time is always important in legal matters. It's imperative to seek the advice of an experienced lawyer right away if you believe you have an actionable claim or have been charged with a crime. Call or message us today for a free evaluation.
GARLAND F. BYERS, JR.
Attorney at Law
I am a trial lawyer. I fight for people... real people. Not insurance companies, banks, or corporations. Not hospitals, nursing homes, or municipalities.
My practice is limited to fighting for ordinary people who need an experienced trial lawyer who is capable of leveling the playing field against those entities who have an army of lawyers and seemingly unlimited resources.
With more than 20 years of trial experience and more than 35 years in the justice system, I understand the law from every angle. I have defended, and prosecuted, defendants charged with murder. I have participated in numerous jury trials in State and federal court.
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I have served as a sworn law enforcement officer for over 7 years, a private investigator, a lawyer in private practice, and an Assistant District Attorney. I have served on the court-appointed roster in several counties in Western North Carolina, as well as in federal court, for many years. My experience in both defending and prosecuting cases has given me a unique perspective and allowed me to craft more effective skills as an attorney.
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See my Public Service pages for more information.
Experience
2018-present
Private Practice
Attorney in private practice
2014-2018
State of North Carolina
Assistant District Attorney
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Prosecutor in Rutherford and McDowell counties (then District 29-A), primarily assigned to Rutherford
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Primary trial prosecutor in Rutherford Superior Court
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Served as chairman of the multi-disciplinary Child Abuse Response Team
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Served as the DA representative for the area Child Fatality Team
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Prosecuted numerous high-profile cases
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Served as media point of contact for Rutherford County District Attorney's Office
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Unanimously appointed to serve as a member of the Rutherford County Board of Education by the Rutherford County Republican Executive Committee
2000-2014
Private Practice
Attorney in private practice
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Handled criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation including injury & wrongful death
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Tried cases in State and Federal Court
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Lead counsel in State v. Pruett, a week-long manslaughter trial broadcast live on Court TV
Education
1999
North Carolina Central University School of Law
Durham, NC
J.D. (Juris Doctorate)
1993
University of South Carolina at Spartanburg
Spartanburg, SC
B.S., Criminal Justice
1991
Isothermal Community College
Spindale, NC
A.A.S., Criminal Justice
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Criminal Justice Award for 1991
1988
Isothermal Community College
Spindale, NC
Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET)
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Top Student Award
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Marksmanship Award