News + Insights

What to Do When Someone Steals Your Trade Secrets: A North Carolina Business Owner's Action Plan

Written By Isabelle M. Chammas, Angela P. Doughty, CIPP/US, AIGP, and Gavin B. Parsons

Your worst nightmare has become a reality: A former employee has taken your confidential information to a competitor. Maybe you've noticed unusual patterns in lost business, or perhaps another employee tipped you off abou…

Will Oden Named to NC Lawyers Weekly Employment Law Power List for Second Year

Ward and Smith is proud to announce that Wilmington-based labor and employment attorney Will Oden has been named to North Carolina Lawyers Weekly’s Employment Law Power List for the second consecutive year. This yea…

Sow the Seeds of Innovation: Ward and Smith Proudly Sponsors the NC Chamber’s Ag Allies Conference

Agriculture isn’t just part of North Carolina’s history—it’s a driving force in our economy right now. With an impressive $111 billion annual impact and jobs for 16% of the state’s workforce,…

Federal Appellate Court Enjoins NLRB Proceedings, Concluding the NLRB’s Structure Is Likely Unconstitutional

Written By Chris S. Edwards and Avery J. Locklear

In Space Exploration Technology Corp. v. NLRB, No. 24-50627 (5th Cir. 2025) (“SpaceX”), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirmed a district court’s preliminary injunctions that halted seve…

68 Ward and Smith Attorneys Honored by Best Lawyers® for 2026

Ward and Smith is proud to share that 68 attorneys have been recognized by Best Lawyers in America®. Of those honored, 55 were named to The Best Lawyers in America®, with three receiving the distinction of &l…

Attorney Amy Wooten to Help Lead Planning for 2026 NCBA Insurance Law Annual CLE Program

Ward and Smith attorney Amy Wooten has been named Vice Chair of the North Carolina Bar Association’s Insurance Section 2026 CLE Planning Committee. In this leadership role, she will help guide the development of the…