Ryan Shafer

Senior Attorney – Director of Intake Department | Burns Smith Law

Ryan Shafer serves as the Director of Intake Department at Burns Smith Law, where he oversees the firm’s intake operations and helps ensure prospective clients receive exceptional service, guidance, and support from their very first interaction with the firm. Drawing on his extensive legal background and years of experience representing clients in complex family law matters, Ryan brings a client-focused approach and deep understanding of case evaluation, strategy, and client relations to his leadership role.

Prior to joining Burns Smith Law, Ryan was a Partner with Meriwether & Tharp, LLC, one of Georgia’s leading family law firms. In addition to maintaining an active family law practice, Ryan served as the firm’s Director of Intake Department, where he personally consulted with and evaluated the legal needs of more than 10,000 prospective clients throughout his tenure. This unique experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the legal challenges individuals and families face and reinforced his commitment to helping clients navigate difficult situations with confidence and clarity. Before joining Meriwether & Tharp, LLC, Ryan gained considerable litigation experience as an associate attorney with Ferguson Law Firm, P.C. in Jonesboro, Georgia.

Ryan’s dedication and professional accomplishments earned him recognition for four consecutive years (2020-2023) as a Super Lawyers Georgia Rising Star, an honor awarded to outstanding attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in their practice area.

Born and raised in Florence, New Jersey, Ryan graduated from La Salle University in 2008 with a degree in Mathematics. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School in 2013. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, and their dog. An avid sports fan, he enjoys watching games and spending quality time at home with his family.

Today, Ryan leverages both his legal experience and leadership skills to enhance the client experience at Burns Smith Law, ensuring individuals seeking legal assistance receive knowledgeable guidance and compassionate support from the very beginning of their journey with the firm.