Our Legal Team
We’re here for you at your time of need! The Attorneys at Shelton Law, LLC are attentive, knowledgeable and, most important, ready to find the options you never knew you had. By weighing the potential risks against the potential for benefit, we can make a more educated decision about what’s best for you and your company.
BEN SHELTON
Founding Lawyer
Ben began his legal career in 2008 as a prosecutor in the 14th Judicial Circuit of South Carolina. There, he sat first chair in jury trials in Beaufort, Hampton, Allendale and Colleton Counties. Within two years, he was the prosecutor in charge of Colleton County, South Carolina at a time when the community was suffering from regular incidents of violent, gang related criminal activity.
James D. Sharpe, III
Associate Attorney
James D. Sharpe, III is an Associate Attorney at Shelton Law Firm, where he focuses on civil litigation and advocacy throughout the Lowcountry and across South Carolina.
Born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, James earned his Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Economics from Guilford College in 2016. During his undergraduate years, he served as both a staff writer and senior writer for The Guilfordian, developing the strong communication and analytical skills that continue to shape his legal practice today.
After relocating to Hilton Head Island in 2016, James worked locally while gaining valuable experience in the legal field as a litigation paralegal before beginning law school at Elon University School of Law in 2020. During the summer of 2021, he clerked with Shelton Law Firm, LLC, further strengthening his connection to the Lowcountry legal community.
Throughout law school, James gained extensive courtroom exposure and valuable experience here in the Lowcountry through positions with the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office and by clerking for the Honorable Marvin H. Dukes, III, then Beaufort County Master in Equity. He earned his Juris Doctor from Elon University School of Law in December 2022.
James was admitted to the North Carolina Bar in 2023 and the South Carolina Bar in 2024. He served as an Assistant Solicitor for the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, handling a wide range of criminal matters and courtroom proceedings. His experience also includes civil litigation, municipal and government matters, and prosecution work for the City of Beaufort. In 2026, he was admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina.
Outside of the office, James enjoys spending time on the water, fishing, golfing, and taking long walks on the beach with his fiancée and chocolate lab.
BROOKLYN VALENTINE WEST
Paralegal
Brooklyn, a Tennessee native, made the move to the Lowcountry in 2010 and has been making valuable contributions to the firm since June 2021. With over five years of experience as a paralegal, she has honed her skills and developed a comprehensive understanding of the legal process. Brooklyn’s involvement in cases, from personal injury to complex litigation, is thorough and demonstrates her dedication and attention to detail.
In her leisure time, she enjoys outdoor activities, serving her community, and weekly adventures with her husband and their two children.
Education
A.A.S. Paralegal Studies
Technical College of the Lowcountry, (ABA accredited)
B.S. Public Health
University of South Carolina
Professional Affiliation
American Bar Association (ABA), Affiliated Professional
Bluffton Rotary Club, Member 2018 – Present
National Association of Legal Assistants
Notary Public for the State of South Carolina
Lisa Cilli-Smith
Paralegal
Lisa is a seasoned paralegal who joined the firm in July 2021, bringing over thirty years of extensive paralegal experience. Her tenure at a Fortune 500 chemical company in Columbus, OH, spanned 25 years, exposing her to various legal practice areas. She specializes in personal injury cases. In her leisure time, she passionately pursues travel, tennis, community committee service, and quality moments with her husband and their dog.
Education
Paralegal Certification from Capital University Law School (ABA accredited)
B.A. in Communications from the University of Missouri-St. Louis
Jane B. Shelton
Client Liaison
Jane is the firm’s administrator, HR Director, and all-around client liaison, as well as Ben’s wife. Together, she and Ben founded the practice in October of 2020. Originally from Connecticut, she relocated to South Carolina as a student at the College of Charleston in 2002 and has since established herself in the Lowcountry. Her professional journey began in sales, and she later served as the Admissions Director at an esteemed art and design school in Charleston, SC, for an extended period. Following her move to Hilton Head Island and the start of her family, she dedicated seven years to teaching Pilates, both privately and in group settings. Upon the establishment of the practice, she transitioned back to an office environment. Working alongside the outstanding staff and clients, Jane has played a significant role in the current standing of Shelton Law Firm. She remains enthusiastic about the firm’s continuous progression and expansion. During her leisure time, she finds joy in activities such as boating, beach outings, biking, and cherishing moments with Ben and their two daughters.
Education
BS from the College of Charleston in Sociology