James C. Dever III

James C. Dever III is a Senior Lecturer at Duke University School of Law and an adjunct professor at Campbell University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. He also serves as a United States District Judge for the Eastern District of North Carolina, nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the Senate in 2002. Currently, he teaches courses on criminal procedure and sentencing at Duke.

• Education: B.B.A. (with high honors) from University of Notre Dame (1984), J.D. (with high honors) from Duke University School of Law (1987)

Research Interests focus on Employment Law and Criminal Procedure, emphasizing practical legal education and judicial training. His academic work aligns with his professional experience in litigation and judicial roles.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Best Lawyers in America
• Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite for Employment Law
• Raymond P. Kent Award (highest finance/economics GPA at Notre Dame)
• Meritorious Service Medal (Air Force service)

He has held leadership roles in legal education, including editor-in-chief of the Duke Law Journal and active participation in the Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules (2014–2021, Chair since 2022). He also serves on Duke Law School’s Board of Visitors and Belmont Abbey College’s Board of Trustees.