Four Attorneys Join Smith Anderson in Q2, Bringing First-Half Attorney Hires to 10

Smith Anderson continued its strategic growth during the second quarter of 2026 with the addition of four attorneys across several key practice areas. Attorneys Erin Catlett, Robert Sands, and Simeon Toronto join former Duke Energy and Tennessee Valley Authority executive David Fountain, who joined the firm as Of Counsel. Together, the four attorneys expand Smith Anderson’s capabilities across energy, corporate governance, real estate development, land use and zoning, and complex litigation. Their arrival brings the firm’s total attorney hires for the first half of 2026 to 10.

“David, Erin, Robert and Simeon each bring experience that strengthens important areas of the firm,” said Managing Partner Byron Kirkland. “David’s extensive leadership in the energy sector and North Carolina business community, Erin’s and Robert’s capabilities across real estate and land use matters, and Simeon’s litigation experience with a global law firm add meaningful depth to our team. Most importantly, they share the judgment, practical approach and commitment to client service that enhances our ability to deliver excellent results.”

Erin Catlett joins Smith Anderson’s Real Estate Development team, where she focuses on land use, zoning, and related litigation for both public and private sector clients. She represents municipalities, developers, property owners, and other stakeholders throughout North Carolina on land use entitlements and transactional matters. Before joining the firm, Erin practiced at a national law firm and served as Deputy Town Attorney for a local municipality. She earned her J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

Robert Sands advises clients in real estate development and land use and zoning matters, guiding developers, landowners, buyers and sellers, and investors through complex commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, refinancings, and leases. His experience includes drafting and negotiating transactional documents, conducting due diligence involving title, survey, zoning, and environmental matters, and advising on conservation easements and other land use restrictions. Robert earned his J.D. from the University at Buffalo School of Law.

Simeon Toronto joins the Litigation team, where he represents companies in complex disputes and government investigations, supporting clients through all phases of litigation. Before joining Smith Anderson, Simeon practiced with an international law firm, representing Fortune 100 companies in matters involving social media, consumer protection, antitrust, consumer products, health care, the False Claims Act, and the Anti-Kickback Statute. He earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School, where he received several academic and leadership honors.

Together, these additions reflect Smith Anderson’s continued investment in attracting exceptional legal talent to serve clients across its core practices.