Jim Dorsett Honored by North Carolina State Bar with Resolution of Appreciation

Smith Anderson partner Jim Dorsett was recognized by the North Carolina State Bar for his distinguished service and longstanding contributions to the legal profession during its 2026 Annual Meeting in Raleigh.

The State Bar’s Client Security Fund Board of Trustees adopted a Resolution of Appreciation honoring Jim’s 34 years of service to the State Bar, including serving as its president from 2002 to 2003 and as president and chair of the North Carolina State Bar Foundation from 2020 to 2023. The State Bar Council also awarded a Certificate of Appreciation recognizing his service to the State Bar’s Client Security Fund Board, where he has served as a Trustee since 2021 and held the role of chair in 2026.

Throughout his career, Jim has held numerous leadership positions in the legal profession, including with the American Bar Association, International Society of Barristers, American Board of Trial Advocates, and American Counsel Association. His dedication to public service extends to his involvement with organizations such as the Rotary Club of Raleigh, Food Runners Collaborative, and Davidson College.

Jim's professional and community contributions have earned him several distinguished honors, including the North Carolina State Bar's 2024 John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award, the Federal Bar Association's 2023 Judge David Daniel Award for Excellence in the Legal Community, and the North Carolina Bar Association's 2021 Citizen Lawyer Award.

An attorney with Smith Anderson for nearly 50 years, Jim has built a distinguished litigation practice representing clients in business, trusts and estates, insurance, and other complex disputes. He is also a certified mediator and has been consistently recognized by The Best Lawyers in America for his litigation work.