Attorney John Crotts has always had a passion for helping others. In December 2024, that dedication led him to achieve the prestigious distinction of becoming a Board-Certified Elder Law Specialist by the North Carolina State Bar. This accomplishment reflects years of hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to serving seniors and their families.
A Humble Beginning
John was born in Shelby, North Carolina, but spent his childhood in Rutherford County. He wasn’t the straight-A student some might expect of a lawyer, but he always dreamed of going to law school, even when it seemed out of reach. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work. At 16, he started working at K-Mart, where he spent four years stocking shelves and selling sporting goods. He later delivered pizzas to help support himself while in college.
It was during a summer internship at a local law firm that John realized his true calling. That experience solidified his desire to become a lawyer, and from that moment on, he worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality.
The Road to Law
John began his higher education at Isothermal Community College before continuing his studies at Lees-McRae College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. From there, he was accepted into the Appalachian School of Law in Grundy, VA, a town in one of the most rural regions of Virginia, often referred to as coal mining country. Despite the challenges of law school and the demands of a rigorous academic program, he graduated with honors.
Well before remote work became popular, John was already embracing it—working remotely for King Law while attending law school. This early experience balancing work and studies helped shape his discipline and dedication to the legal profession. He credits his success to faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of his loved ones.
During his first internship in 2000, John met Attorney Brian King, who would become a close friend and mentor. Their bond grew stronger over the years, and in 2005, John officially joined King Law, where he has been practicing ever since.
Finding His Passion in Elder Law
Like many attorneys, John initially practiced in several areas of law. While he found courtroom work exciting, he discovered his true passion lay in counseling clients about their futures. He became increasingly interested in estate planning, wills, trusts, and elder law. Having witnessed the impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease within his own family, he felt called to help families navigate these challenging situations.
After dedicating over five years to elder law, John decided to take his expertise to the next level. The process of becoming a Board-Certified Elder Law Specialist is no small feat. Attorneys must complete rigorous continuing education requirements, devote at least 25% of their practice to the specialty, receive peer endorsements, and pass a demanding six-hour exam. Once certified, specialists must continue proving their knowledge and dedication through ongoing education and recertification every five years.
In 2024, John’s dedication and expertise were recognized at the highest level when he earned his board certification from the North Carolina State Bar—a highly exclusive and rarely awarded achievement. That year, he was the only attorney in North Carolina to receive this highly sought-after distinction, setting him apart as a leader in his field. This accomplishment reflects his unwavering commitment to serving seniors and their families with the highest level of knowledge and professionalism.
Life Rooted in Faith and Family
For John, success is not just about professional achievements, it’s about faith, family, and making a difference. He credits everything he has accomplished to his faith in Jesus Christ. His supportive family, including his loving wife, Lauren, has been by his side every step of the way. He is also grateful to his mentor Brian, his colleagues at King Law, and his long-time Case Manager, Lindsey, for their unwavering support.
Today, John continues to use his skills and expertise to guide families through the complexities of elder law. His journey from a hardworking teenager in Rutherford County to a Board-Certified Elder Law Specialist is a testament to perseverance, passion, and purpose. John continues to call Rutherford County home while providing services across Western North Carolina. Many individuals seeking John’s level of experience would typically have to travel to cities like Asheville or Charlotte to meet with a board-certified specialist. His extensive knowledge and expertise in elder law make him a hidden gem in Western North Carolina. For those seeking help with estate planning, long-term care, or elder law matters, John Crotts is a name you can trust.