News + Insights

Ward and Smith Attorneys Recognized in 2026 Edition of Benchmark Litigation

Ward and Smith has once again earned Benchmark Litigation’s “Recommended” status for dispute resolution in North Carolina and continues to be recognized in the publication’s Definitive Guide to…

North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors' Recent Enforcement Priorities: Unlicensed Contracting

Written By Alexandra E. Ferri and Jeffery I. Stoddard

2025 is the 100th anniversary of the General Assembly's establishment of the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors ("NCLBGC"). Due to the shortcomings of unscrupulous or underqualified contractors, the leg…

Illuminating Wilmington: Presenting the 2025 “Most Intriguing People” Power Breakfast

Ward and Smith is honored to serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the final Power Breakfast of the year: Wilmington’s Most Intriguing People of 2025. This signature gathering brings together business and community lead…

Ward and Smith to Sponsor the 2025 Twin Rivers YMCA Turkey Trot

Ward and Smith is proud to sponsor the 18th Annual Twin Rivers YMCA Turkey Trot 5K & 10K, taking place on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Taberna Golf & Country Club in New Bern. A beloved Thanksgiving Day traditi…

Parental Alienation in North Carolina: What It Is and How to Combat It

Written By Phillip H. Cowan and John "Jack" F. Presson

While adapting to all of the changes that come when parents split, the last thing a child needs is to be put in the middle of the dispute. Parents should always strive to insulate their children from the tensions common to…

Avery Locklear and Chris Edwards Elected to Leadership Roles with the New Hanover County Bar Association

Ward and Smith is proud to announce that Avery Locklear and Chris Edwards have been elected to leadership positions within the New Hanover County Bar Association (NHCBA). Avery was elected to serve on the Board,…