Andrea Smaxwell

Andrea Smaxwell is a passionate advocate for veterans, dedicated to helping them secure the legal benefits they deserve from their military service. Her expertise spans international law, workers’ compensation, and personal injury law, making her a versatile and knowledgeable attorney.

Andrea obtained her Juris Doctorate with a specialization in international law from Golden Gate University School of Law in San Francisco in 2009. She furthered her education at the Sompong Sucharitkul Center for Advanced International Legal Studies, earning a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Legal Studies in 2010. During her studies, Andrea concentrated on humanitarian law, focusing on the rights of soldiers, civilians, and non-combatants during conflicts.

Originally from Indiana and raised in Raleigh, Andrea graduated magna cum laude from UNC Wilmington with a bachelor's degree in philosophy and religion and a minor in political science. Her undergraduate work emphasized logic and global politics, laying a strong foundation for her legal career.

Andrea is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs to represent veterans and their families in VA disability claim appeals. She is an active member of the N.C. Advocates for Justice, the N.C. Association of Women Attorneys (NCAWA), and the NCAWA Piedmont Triad Chapter. Additionally, Andrea volunteers with the North Carolina Bar Foundation’s Lawyers for Literacy program.