Courtney H. Carpenter provides representation in all matters of family law and is passionate about helping clients find the best resolution possible based on their individual goals. The litigation process can be complicated and emotional, and Ms. Carpenter works with each client to help them navigate their options to make informed decisions throughout their case. Ms. Carpenter earned a Bachelor of Science with a major in political science, a certification in professional politics, and a minor in international affairs, graduating magna cum laude from Kennesaw State University in 2006. Thereafter, Ms. Carpenter earned a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law in 2010. During her time at Emory, she volunteered with Student Legal Services and was a participant in the Alternative Dispute Resolution Society. Ms. Carpenter’s legal career has almost exclusively focused on family law since 2011. Prior to joining Burns Smith Law, Ms. Carpenter was a Partner at one of the largest family law firms in Georgia.

Ms. Carper attended West Virginia University College of Law, where she earned a Juris Doctorate degree in 2010. Ms. Carper is an Equity Partner at Goodall, Pelt, Carper & Norton, PC. Ms. Carper’s areas of practice include Litigation, Family Law, Criminal Defense and Guardian ad litem for Minor Children. Ms. Carper is a member of the Virginia State Bar and Fredericksburg Area Bar Association. Ms. Carper has been a member of Lawyers of Distinction since 2020.

Joe’s practice has focused on high-conflict and complex divorce, parental responsibilities (custody), child relocation, and child support matters. His attention to family goes beyond the law and follows him to soccer fields and basketball courts where he coaches his daughter's teams. He teaches discipline, the benefit of hard work, and teamwork which are required to succeed whether it's a game or family law case. By setting both short and long term goals, he helps his players and clients alike fulfill their wants and needs to meet their goals and put them in the best long term position. Joe stands out at assisting clients through the family law process by helping them make reasonable decisions to protect their finances, and most importantly, maintain and foster positive relationships with their children.