Founder & Managing Attorney
Frederic “James” Smith is a Marine Corps veteran and VA-accredited attorney based in Okinawa, Japan. He is authorized to represent veterans before the Department of Veterans Affairs (Accreditation# 60469)
He founded Pacific Valor Law to serve veterans and military families overseas who are tired of excuses, delays, and stateside firms that treat them like an afterthought.
Originally from New Jersey, James first came to Okinawa as a Marine Air Traffic Control Officer from 2010 to 2013 and vowed to return one day. After active duty, he attended Rutgers Law School, where he interned with the New Jersey Supreme Court. He later worked as in-house counsel for a private equity firm before returning to federal service.
In 2021, James moved back to Japan, accepting a civil service position in Fukuoka and later serving as an Air Traffic Controller at Kadena Air Base. There, he saw firsthand the lack of qualified representation for civil service members, retirees, and families stationed overseas – a gap Pacific Valor Law was built to close.
James combines operational precision from his military/aviation background with sharp legal strategy to help veterans win complex VA disability claims and appeals. His approach is simple: prepare thoroughly, act decisively, and never outsource accountability.
James lives in Okinawa with his wife, a teacher, their two children, and their chocolate lab (Bodhi). Outside the office, he enjoys scuba diving, golf, and exploring the Pacific with his family.
Marine-founded. Veteran-focused. Built to win.
Pacific Valor Law
Based in Okinawa, Japan — Serving U.S. veterans and military families worldwide
VA-accredited attorney | Licensed in New Jersey
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Okinawa-based. VA-accredited. Straight answers. No obligation.