Six Attorneys Join Smith Anderson Across Strategic Practice Areas in Q1

Smith Anderson welcomed six attorneys in the first quarter of 2026, adding talent across finance, corporate transactions, employment, intellectual property and litigation. The new hires bring experience from national and international law firms, government service, journalism, investment banking and in-house leadership roles, further strengthening the firm’s ability to serve clients across a wide range of industries and legal needs.

“These additions reflect the strength of Smith Anderson’s platform and our continued focus on hiring outstanding lawyers who add depth across the firm,” said Managing Partner Byron Kirkland. “The true strength of Smith Anderson is our people, and each bring valuable experience and perspective that help us continue meeting the evolving needs of our clients.”

Sarah Desforges joins the Banking & Finance group, where she supports clients on a range of financing transactions. Her background includes legal practice in the United Kingdom and Italy, where she advised on financing arrangements involving multiple jurisdictions and evolving regulatory considerations. Sarah earned her LL.M. from Duke University School of Law, as well as an LL.M. from BPP University Law School and a G.D.L. from The University of Law, London.

Brian Ferrell adds strength to Smith Anderson’s corporate team through his work in mergers & acquisitions, mezzanine finance and private equity. He advises public and private companies, investment funds and investors on complex transactions and strategic matters across the deal life cycle, including restructurings, recapitalizations, fund formations and GP-led transactions. Before joining the firm, Brian practiced at an international law firm in San Francisco and previously worked in investment banking. He is a board member of The Wilmington Arena Project. Brian earned his J.D., with honors, from The University of Chicago Law School.

Andrew Kragie joins the firm’s Workplace Law and Employment Litigation teams, helping employers manage risk, respond to litigation and administrative claims and navigate issues ranging from workplace speech concerns to restrictive covenants. Before entering private practice, Andrew spent six years as a journalist covering law, policy and politics. He earned his J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

With 19 years of experience in patent matters, Jonathan Lewis joins Smith Anderson’s Litigation and Intellectual Property teams. Jonathan represents clients in complex disputes before district courts, the International Trade Commission and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, drawing on seven years of experience at global law firms and 12 years as a primary examiner at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. He earned his J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

Dallin Seguine is a member of Smith Anderson’s Corporate, Emerging Companies and Venture Capital, and Mergers & Acquisitions teams, where he represents clients in financings, acquisitions and other strategic transactions. He also advises companies on the development and commercialization of intellectual property and technology assets, particularly for life sciences, technology and other innovation-driven clients. Prior to joining Smith Anderson, he practiced at a large national law firm in Pennsylvania. Dallin earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law.

Drawing on more than 35 years of experience advising boards, CEOs and executive teams, G. Edward (Eddie) Story joins Smith Anderson as Of Counsel. Most recently, he served as senior legal advisor for corporate governance at RTI International, following a long tenure as executive vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary. His addition supports the firm’s strategic growth initiatives and client engagement efforts. Eddie earned his J.D. from Campbell University School of Law.

Smith Anderson’s continued growth reflects the firm’s strategic priorities across high-demand areas.