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September 9, 2026
Nine Ward and Smith Attorneys Named to Benchmark Litigation’s 40 & Under List for 2026
Ward and Smith is proud to announce that nine of our attorneys have been recognized in Benchmark Litigation’s 2026 “40 & Under List.”
This annual recognition celebrates standout young litigators in the region who have shown exceptional skill, leadership, and results in their fields. Attorneys are chosen through detailed review of their case achievements, feedback from peers, and their influencer within the legal community. This year’s list is the most comprehensive yet, with 172 new additions and 615 lawyers featured overall, a 27% increase from the 485 lawyers recognized in 2025.
The Ward and Smith attorneys named to the 2026 edition of Benchmark Litigation, 40 & Under are:
Isabelle M. Chammas
Dispute Resolution
Chris S. Edwards
Appellate
Commercial
Commercial
Alexandra E. Ferri
Dispute Resolution
Justin T. Hill
Dispute Resolution
Avery J. Locklear
Dispute Resolution
Evan M. Musselwhite
Construction
Commercial
Commercial
Jordan M. Spanner
Intellectual Property
Commercial
Commercial
Hayley R. Wells
Labor and Employment
Devon D. Williams
Labor and Employment
Commercial
Commercial
About Benchmark Litigation
Benchmark Litigation is the only B2B study dedicated solely to litigation and dispute resolution in the U.S., with additional coverage across Canada and other markets worldwide. Since launching in 2008, Benchmark conducts an in-depth analysis of the attorneys and firms shaping the litigation field, drawing on extensive interviews with litigators, dispute resolution specialists, and their clients. Its editorial process is driven by in-depth research and careful selection, rather than relying on statistics or inclusivity, ensuring recognition is reserved for those truly making an impact in the field. For more information about the selection process, visit Benchmark Litigation.
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