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About Us 
Attorney in Smithfield, NC

Emery D. Ashley is the third of four generations of attorneys in the Ashley family, continuing a long-standing tradition of legal service in Johnston County. In 1989, following his graduation from Campbell University School of Law, Emery joined his father, Wallace Ashley, Jr. (now retired), in the practice of law in Smithfield, North Carolina, building upon a legacy that began decades earlier. Wallace Ashley, Jr. first opened his law practice in Smithfield in 1958, establishing a foundation of trusted service to the local community.

For more than 60 years, the Ashley family has proudly served the people of Johnston County and surrounding areas. This multigenerational commitment reflects a deep-rooted dedication to providing reliable legal counsel, personal attention, and lasting client relationships. Today, Emery D. Ashley continues that tradition, carrying forward the values of integrity, experience, and community service that have defined the practice for generations.
Emery Ashley • Emery Ashley Attorney At Law • Emery Ashley Lawyer • Johnston County Lawyer
Emery Ashley Attorney At Law

Education:

Campbell University of Law
Doctor of Law (J.D.)
1989

Campbell University
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a major in Trust Management
1984

Emery D. Ashley Concentrates on:

  • Estate Planning
  • Residential Real Estate Transactions
  • Commercial Real Estate Transactions
  • Trusts
  • Elder Law
  • Business Law & Planning
  • Basic Civil Matters
  • Wills
  • Guardianship

Community Involvement

Ashley graduated from Smithfield-Selma Senior High School (SSS) in 1979 so his roots in the area run deep. He married his high school sweetheart, Kimberly Clifton Ashley, in 1984 and they have four children: Emery Denny Ashley, Jr. (28), Sarah Clifton Ashley (26), William Lenoir Ashley (24) and John Brinson Ashley (18). Born and raised in Smithfield, Ashley is dedicated to supporting the local community through providing the best legal service and supporting local organizations.
Emery Ashley • Emery Ashley Attorney At Law • Emery Ashley Lawyer • Johnston County Lawyer
Ashley Attorney At Law
Smithfield Town Council
Elected Member Since 2011

North Carolina Bar Association
Real Property Section; Business Law Section; Estate Planning Section; Elder Law Section

National Association of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)

Johnston County Community Foundation Board