Chambers USA 2009 Recognizes Smith Anderson Among America’s Leading Lawyers

Raleigh (June 12) -- We are pleased to announce that Smith, Anderson, Blount, Dorsett, Mitchell & Jernigan, L.L.P., the largest law firm headquartered in the Triangle and one of the largest in North Carolina, has earned high honors from the annual publication, Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business.

This recognition reflects independent research conducted by Chambers USA and was provided by clients, peers and members of the business community.

The firm’s Corporate/M&A practice received Chambers highest recognition, the only Triangle firm and one of only two firms in North Carolina to receive this honor. Further, of the top 4 ranked Corporate/M&A lawyers in the State, 2 are from Smith Anderson. Other practice areas honored include: General Commercial Litigation, Labor & Employment and Real Estate.

Smith Anderson partners John L. Jernigan and Gerald Roach (Corporate/M&A) and Lacy H. Reaves (Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use) received the highest ranking possible in their respective practice areas.

Additional Smith Anderson lawyers receiving individual recognition include:

Corporate/M&A

• Christopher B. Capel
• John L. Jernigan
• Byron B. Kirkland
• Gerald F. Roach

Labor and Employment

• Rosemary G. Kenyon
• Kimberly J. Korando

Litigation

• Carl N. Patterson

Real Estate

• C. Steven Mason
• Lacy H. Reaves (Zoning/Land Use)
• Francis Bagbey

Comments about Smith Anderson provided to Chambers from clients and the business community and published in Chambers USA 2009 include: Corporate/ M&A: “Smith Anderson’s corporate team…has a tremendous reputation thanks to its skills and outstanding lawyers. ‘The team has great political insights and is extremely business-oriented.’”

Real Estate: “This ‘confident and well-connected team’ represents developers, lenders and sellers in complex and high-value transactions…. ‘creative, focused and always looks for the best way to move a deal forward.’”

Commercial Litigation: “The range of litigation (the firm) handles is …varied, encompassing contract disputes, securities litigation and products liability matters. ‘This is a tag-team of extremely confident trial lawyers...’”

Labor and Employment: “…this team provides advisory and litigation services to various companies…because of the many global companies in the area, (the practice) regularly advises international companies...on the implementation of workforces in North Carolina.”

About Chambers USA

The Chambers USA list is the only legal directory conducting independent research to rank lawyers and firms. Chambers researchers conducted in-depth interviews with more than 7,000 leading private practice attorneys and key in-house counsel. The rankings are based on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness/astuteness, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by the client.

About Smith Anderson

Since its inception in 1912, Smith Anderson has grown to become the largest Triangle-based law firm and one of the largest in North Carolina. Representing diverse organizations with local, state, national and international interests, our lawyers focus on building and strengthening relationships by understanding our clients' businesses and customizing our legal solutions accordingly. Our commitment to our clients also extends to our community and profession.