Ward and Smith, P.A.
@wardandsmith.bsky.social
We're a North Carolina law firm with offices in Asheville, Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, and Wilmington. Find out more at wardandsmith.com.
Congratulations to Trusts and Estates Attorney Terri Sharp on her re-appointment to the Havelock Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Terri’s continued service reflects her longstanding commitment to supporting the Havelock business community and strengthening local leadership. buff.ly/ZdtWFWF
February 3, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Congratulations to Trusts and Estates Attorney Terri Sharp on her re-appointment to the Havelock Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Terri’s continued service reflects her longstanding commitment to supporting the Havelock business community and strengthening local leadership. buff.ly/ZdtWFWF
Congratulations to our Raleigh office attorneys recognized as 2026 Business North Carolina Legal Elite. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
February 2, 2026 at 4:51 PM
Congratulations to our Raleigh office attorneys recognized as 2026 Business North Carolina Legal Elite. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
Attorneys Ken Gray, Avery Locklear, and X. Lightfoot walked through a fictional amusement park case study to unpack real-world lessons on noncompete agreements, trade secrets, employee exits, and social media policies. Read the full recap for key takeaways employers can put to work. buff.ly/SrWaiFS
February 1, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Attorneys Ken Gray, Avery Locklear, and X. Lightfoot walked through a fictional amusement park case study to unpack real-world lessons on noncompete agreements, trade secrets, employee exits, and social media policies. Read the full recap for key takeaways employers can put to work. buff.ly/SrWaiFS
Get ready to dress up and give back! We’re proud to sponsor the 2026 New Bern Heart Ball, hosted by the American Heart Association.
buff.ly/vXsKIV8
buff.ly/vXsKIV8
January 31, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Get ready to dress up and give back! We’re proud to sponsor the 2026 New Bern Heart Ball, hosted by the American Heart Association.
buff.ly/vXsKIV8
buff.ly/vXsKIV8
In Berk v. Choy, the Court resolved a long-standing circuit split and held that state affidavit-of-merit requirements do not apply in federal court—confirming the Fourth Circuit’s approach that’s been in place since 2021. Here’s what practitioners need to know buff.ly/JHiZdUW
January 30, 2026 at 10:38 PM
In Berk v. Choy, the Court resolved a long-standing circuit split and held that state affidavit-of-merit requirements do not apply in federal court—confirming the Fourth Circuit’s approach that’s been in place since 2021. Here’s what practitioners need to know buff.ly/JHiZdUW
Congratulations to Lily Faulconer on her selection to ECU’s 2026 40 Under Forty Leadership Awards. From her work as a creditors’ rights attorney to her ongoing service to ECU, Lily continues to make a meaningful impact. buff.ly/NvbuUYS
January 30, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Congratulations to Lily Faulconer on her selection to ECU’s 2026 40 Under Forty Leadership Awards. From her work as a creditors’ rights attorney to her ongoing service to ECU, Lily continues to make a meaningful impact. buff.ly/NvbuUYS
Congratulations to Community Associations Attorney Madeline Williams, named Vice President of the Legislative Action Committee for the CAI–NC Chapter for 2026. Thank you for your continued service and leadership on behalf of North Carolina’s community associations. buff.ly/ciKsrUX
January 29, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Congratulations to Community Associations Attorney Madeline Williams, named Vice President of the Legislative Action Committee for the CAI–NC Chapter for 2026. Thank you for your continued service and leadership on behalf of North Carolina’s community associations. buff.ly/ciKsrUX
Airbnb-style activity can strain parking, amenities, and neighborhood harmony—but in North Carolina, regulating short-term rentals isn’t as simple as banning them.
Kristin Mitcham breaks down legally sound strategies to manage STR impacts. Read more: buff.ly/4mXa4zS
Kristin Mitcham breaks down legally sound strategies to manage STR impacts. Read more: buff.ly/4mXa4zS
January 28, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Airbnb-style activity can strain parking, amenities, and neighborhood harmony—but in North Carolina, regulating short-term rentals isn’t as simple as banning them.
Kristin Mitcham breaks down legally sound strategies to manage STR impacts. Read more: buff.ly/4mXa4zS
Kristin Mitcham breaks down legally sound strategies to manage STR impacts. Read more: buff.ly/4mXa4zS
We’re proud to sponsor one of Wilmington’s biggest business nights of the year.
The Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting brings together the leaders shaping our region—and we’re glad to be part of it. See you February 12 at the Convention Center. buff.ly/X9ie9An
The Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting brings together the leaders shaping our region—and we’re glad to be part of it. See you February 12 at the Convention Center. buff.ly/X9ie9An
January 27, 2026 at 10:38 PM
We’re proud to sponsor one of Wilmington’s biggest business nights of the year.
The Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting brings together the leaders shaping our region—and we’re glad to be part of it. See you February 12 at the Convention Center. buff.ly/X9ie9An
The Wilmington Chamber’s 159th Annual Meeting brings together the leaders shaping our region—and we’re glad to be part of it. See you February 12 at the Convention Center. buff.ly/X9ie9An
Congratulations, Cody! We’re excited to see Litigation Paralegal Supervisor Cody Worrells share his knowledge and experience as an adjunct professor at Cape Fear Community College—supporting students while continuing his full-time work with Ward and Smith. buff.ly/4WaBKFO
January 23, 2026 at 10:38 PM
Congratulations, Cody! We’re excited to see Litigation Paralegal Supervisor Cody Worrells share his knowledge and experience as an adjunct professor at Cape Fear Community College—supporting students while continuing his full-time work with Ward and Smith. buff.ly/4WaBKFO
AI is changing how deals get done—and our own Angela Doughty will show you how to use it responsibly.
Catch Angela’s breakout session, “AI in the Deal!”, at the NC Bar Association’s Lawyering in the Age of AI program on February 12 in Cary or via live webcast. buff.ly/mpx2u1k
Catch Angela’s breakout session, “AI in the Deal!”, at the NC Bar Association’s Lawyering in the Age of AI program on February 12 in Cary or via live webcast. buff.ly/mpx2u1k
January 22, 2026 at 10:38 PM
AI is changing how deals get done—and our own Angela Doughty will show you how to use it responsibly.
Catch Angela’s breakout session, “AI in the Deal!”, at the NC Bar Association’s Lawyering in the Age of AI program on February 12 in Cary or via live webcast. buff.ly/mpx2u1k
Catch Angela’s breakout session, “AI in the Deal!”, at the NC Bar Association’s Lawyering in the Age of AI program on February 12 in Cary or via live webcast. buff.ly/mpx2u1k
North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley joined Ward and Smith attorneys to share his perspective on balancing enforcement with economic growth—and why his approach is rooted in education, collaboration, and real-world experience. buff.ly/wpsqm5r
January 22, 2026 at 4:32 PM
North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley joined Ward and Smith attorneys to share his perspective on balancing enforcement with economic growth—and why his approach is rooted in education, collaboration, and real-world experience. buff.ly/wpsqm5r
Erica Rogers will participate in the NCBA Annual Law Student Networking Reception on Jan. 22, representing the NCBA IP Section & the NCBA SOGI Committee. The event brings together law students & attorneys for meaningful, practice-area-focused conversations & professional connections. buff.ly/8EGfATo
January 21, 2026 at 10:38 PM
Erica Rogers will participate in the NCBA Annual Law Student Networking Reception on Jan. 22, representing the NCBA IP Section & the NCBA SOGI Committee. The event brings together law students & attorneys for meaningful, practice-area-focused conversations & professional connections. buff.ly/8EGfATo
When the U.S. Supreme Court takes up a case with far-reaching consequences, perspective matters. Appellate attorney Chris Edwards shares his insight with Law360 on a dispute that could impact federal agencies well beyond the Federal Reserve. Read the full interview.
buff.ly/sJ193Kn
buff.ly/sJ193Kn
January 21, 2026 at 6:30 PM
When the U.S. Supreme Court takes up a case with far-reaching consequences, perspective matters. Appellate attorney Chris Edwards shares his insight with Law360 on a dispute that could impact federal agencies well beyond the Federal Reserve. Read the full interview.
buff.ly/sJ193Kn
buff.ly/sJ193Kn
Can a will be challenged after it’s been signed and admitted to probate? In some cases, yes.
Brad Evans and Payton Bullard explain caveat proceedings in North Carolina—when they apply, who can bring them, and the most common grounds for contesting a will. Read more: buff.ly/7eKCLk6
Brad Evans and Payton Bullard explain caveat proceedings in North Carolina—when they apply, who can bring them, and the most common grounds for contesting a will. Read more: buff.ly/7eKCLk6
January 21, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Can a will be challenged after it’s been signed and admitted to probate? In some cases, yes.
Brad Evans and Payton Bullard explain caveat proceedings in North Carolina—when they apply, who can bring them, and the most common grounds for contesting a will. Read more: buff.ly/7eKCLk6
Brad Evans and Payton Bullard explain caveat proceedings in North Carolina—when they apply, who can bring them, and the most common grounds for contesting a will. Read more: buff.ly/7eKCLk6
Estate disputes often start with one question: “Is this will valid?” Our attorneys explain how courts decide that question and what happens if a will is challenged. Read the full piece by Brad Evans and Payton Collier Bullard. buff.ly/7eKCLk6
January 20, 2026 at 10:38 PM
Estate disputes often start with one question: “Is this will valid?” Our attorneys explain how courts decide that question and what happens if a will is challenged. Read the full piece by Brad Evans and Payton Collier Bullard. buff.ly/7eKCLk6
We’re proud to support the next generation of legal talent. Ward and Smith is sponsoring the Spring Meet the Tar Heels Reception on January 29, bringing UNC Law alumni Mayukh Sircar and Christina Cress back to campus. buff.ly/OwWugmq
January 20, 2026 at 4:32 PM
We’re proud to support the next generation of legal talent. Ward and Smith is sponsoring the Spring Meet the Tar Heels Reception on January 29, bringing UNC Law alumni Mayukh Sircar and Christina Cress back to campus. buff.ly/OwWugmq
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on the importance of service, respect, and building stronger communities.
January 19, 2026 at 1:02 PM
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on the importance of service, respect, and building stronger communities.
Director of Attorney Talent Melissa Schwind will take part in an Interviewing Skills Workshop for Campbell Law students on January 28. buff.ly/suA6CwA
January 18, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Director of Attorney Talent Melissa Schwind will take part in an Interviewing Skills Workshop for Campbell Law students on January 28. buff.ly/suA6CwA
At Ward and Smith’s recent Employment Law Symposium, our Labor & Employment attorneys broke down what employers need to know now—and what’s coming next.
Read the highlights from this fast-paced look at today’s employment law challenges and tomorrow’s trends. buff.ly/LEA1Ln0
Read the highlights from this fast-paced look at today’s employment law challenges and tomorrow’s trends. buff.ly/LEA1Ln0
January 17, 2026 at 10:38 PM
At Ward and Smith’s recent Employment Law Symposium, our Labor & Employment attorneys broke down what employers need to know now—and what’s coming next.
Read the highlights from this fast-paced look at today’s employment law challenges and tomorrow’s trends. buff.ly/LEA1Ln0
Read the highlights from this fast-paced look at today’s employment law challenges and tomorrow’s trends. buff.ly/LEA1Ln0
Bill Durr and Erica Rogers will be part of a panel addressing "The Value of a Brand: NIL—Name Image Likeness and Social Media Influencers" at the NCBA Family Law Section Intensive. buff.ly/wRAgFbk
January 16, 2026 at 10:38 PM
Bill Durr and Erica Rogers will be part of a panel addressing "The Value of a Brand: NIL—Name Image Likeness and Social Media Influencers" at the NCBA Family Law Section Intensive. buff.ly/wRAgFbk
We’re looking forward to welcoming Triangle Benefits Forum members to Ward and Smith. Join us January 27 for a midday program and discussion led by Steve Long on issues shaping the benefits landscape. buff.ly/qQm0moQ
January 16, 2026 at 4:32 PM
We’re looking forward to welcoming Triangle Benefits Forum members to Ward and Smith. Join us January 27 for a midday program and discussion led by Steve Long on issues shaping the benefits landscape. buff.ly/qQm0moQ
We’re proud to share that 38 Ward and Smith attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 Business North Carolina Legal Elite—a peer-selected honor awarded to fewer than five percent of practicing attorneys statewide.
Congratulations to all who were honored. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
Congratulations to all who were honored. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
January 15, 2026 at 10:38 PM
We’re proud to share that 38 Ward and Smith attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 Business North Carolina Legal Elite—a peer-selected honor awarded to fewer than five percent of practicing attorneys statewide.
Congratulations to all who were honored. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
Congratulations to all who were honored. buff.ly/p8IDjlD
The NCSEA's 2026 CLE program, "Clean Energy in the Southeast," features two panels with Ward and Smith attorneys. Cress's panel will discuss "Defining 'Least Cost' in the Modern Energy Context," and Ledford's will address "Performance-Based Ratemaking." buff.ly/fbMKM5N
January 15, 2026 at 4:32 PM
The NCSEA's 2026 CLE program, "Clean Energy in the Southeast," features two panels with Ward and Smith attorneys. Cress's panel will discuss "Defining 'Least Cost' in the Modern Energy Context," and Ledford's will address "Performance-Based Ratemaking." buff.ly/fbMKM5N
Congratulations to Real Estate and Land Use Attorney Sam Franck on his appointment to the Wilmington Chamber's Board of Directors. buff.ly/ff0OFM9
January 14, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Congratulations to Real Estate and Land Use Attorney Sam Franck on his appointment to the Wilmington Chamber's Board of Directors. buff.ly/ff0OFM9