Chris Edwards

About Chris Edwards

I focus my practice on federal appeals across the country, with a particular emphasis on the Fourth Circuit (North Carolina, Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia). Trial lawyers call me when the record is closed, the issues are complex, and the strategy has to be right.As a board-certified appellate specialist based in North Carolina, I work side-by-side with trial teams to preserve issues, frame arguments, and position cases for the best chance of success on appeal. Most of my work comes through referrals, and I’m often brought in mid-trial or post-judgment to help chart the cleanest path forward.At Ward and Smith, I co-chair our appellate team. I regularly brief and argue in the Fourth Circuit, the North Carolina Supreme Court, and the North Carolina Court of Appeals, and I’ve written amicus briefs at nearly every level, including the U.S. Supreme Court.Beyond the courtroom, I write and speak frequently about appellate strategy, standards of review, and preservation. I strive to focus on practical tools that trial lawyers can use to strengthen their cases.If you’re handling a complex business, civil, constitutional, or criminal appeal in the Fourth Circuit, I’d welcome the chance to connect.More about my practice: wardandsmith.com/attorneys/christopher-edwards

Experience

1. Appellate Attorney

   Ward and Smith, P.A.

   Sep 2018 — Present · Wilmington, NC, US

Education

• Wake Forest University School of Law

  Juris Doctor (J.D.)

  2011 — 2014

• Wake Forest University

  BA, Economics, Mathematics

  2007 — 2011