Samantha J. Carpenter

Samantha J. Carpenter is an associate attorney with John Wesley Hall, P.A., where her practice focuses on criminal defense, appellate advocacy, and post-conviction litigation in both state and federal courts. She is committed to advancing her clients’ rights through thoughtful legal strategies and skilled written and oral advocacy.

An Arkansas native, Samantha graduated cum laude from the William H. Bowen School of Law in 2018. While in law school, she clerked with John Wesley Hall, the Pulaski County Public Defender’s Office, and the Capital Division of the Arkansas Public Defender Commission, experiences that gave her early exposure to complex criminal defense work. Following her admission to the Arkansas Bar in 2018, she practiced with the Arkansas Department of Human Services, concentrating on child welfare law and representing the agency in Dependency-Neglect proceedings.

Since joining John Wesley Hall’s practice, Samantha has built a reputation for her skill in appellate and post-conviction matters. She has represented clients in significant appeals before the Arkansas Court of Appeals, including Govan v. State (2025) and Vasquez v. State (2022). Her post-conviction work encompasses clemency applications, registry removal petitions, and other collateral challenges to convictions.

In addition to her litigation practice, Samantha contributes to John Wesley Hall’s authoritative publications, including Search and Seizure (5th ed.), Trial Handbook for Arkansas Lawyers (4th ed.), and Professional Responsibility in Criminal Defense Practice (4th ed.). Her contributions reflect her dedication to advancing the field of criminal defense and providing resources for practitioners nationwide.

Samantha was admitted to practice before the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas in 2020. Samantha is also an active member of the Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).

Samantha J. Carpenter’s practice is driven by the belief that every client deserves a strong advocate—whether on appeal, in post-conviction proceedings, or in trial preparation. Her work reflects both a passion for justice and a commitment to careful, ethical representation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Associate Attorney, John Wesley Hall
• Member, Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws

Licensed State

• Arkansas

Education

• William H. Bowen School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Northwestern State University
  Master of Music (MM)

Awards & Badges