Thomas Amburgey

Based in Asheville. Representing clients across Western North Carolina. Thomas Amburgey is a Board Certified Specialist in State Criminal Law with extensive experience handling serious criminal cases in North Carolina. As a former prosecutor for the Buncombe County District Attorney’s Office, he managed thousands of cases—from minor infractions like speeding tickets to capital offenses, including first-degree murder. This background provides him with a distinct advantage in the courtroom, giving him insight into how prosecutors build their cases and how to counter them effectively. While many criminal defense attorneys resolve most cases through plea deals or dismissals, few gain significant trial experience. Thomas has successfully completed hundreds of bench trials and dozens of jury trials, trying cases from both sides of the courtroom. No matter the charge, he has the knowledge, skill, and experience to provide a strong and strategic defense for his clients. Recognized for his legal excellence and professional integrity, Thomas holds an AV Preeminent Peer Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been named to North Carolina Super Lawyers, Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite, and Best Lawyers in America. Awards and Honors Super Lawyers® Selectees Thomas Amburgey included in a Super Lawyers® list Honors AV Preeminent Peer Rated, Martindale Hubbell, since 2017 North Carolina Super Lawyers Rising Stars, 2018, 2019, 2020 Best Lawyers in America, Criminal Defense, General Practice Section, since 2024 Business North Carolina Legal Elite, since 2019 Top 40 under 40, The National Trial Lawyers Clients Choice award, Criminal Defense Lawyers, AVVO, 2017 North Carolina Super Lawyers, since 2021 Other Sources of Feedback About Thomas Amburgey Included on the 2026North Carolina Super Lawyers list Past Lists 2025 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2024 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2022 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2021 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2020 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2019 North Carolina Super Lawyers list 2018 North Carolina Super Lawyers list

• Board Certified Specialist in State Criminal Law, since September 1, 2015
• Criminal Defense Lawyer, since January 1, 2007

• Buncombe County, Assistant District Attorney

• North Carolina, 2007
• Specialties and Certifications
• Board Certified Specialist in State Criminal Law, North Carolina State Bar, since 2015

• North Carolina State Bar, October 10, 2007 - Present (Member)
• Buncombe County Bar Association, October 10, 2007 - Present (Member)
• Buncombe County Bar Association, 2013 - 2016 (Executive Committee Member)
• 28th Judicial District Bar, October 10, 2007 - Present (Member)
• United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, January 1, 2016 - Present (Admitted)
• Superior Court of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, January 1, 2017 - Present (Admitted)
• Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal, January 1, 2019 - Present (Admitted)