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May 26, 2026
Ward and Smith and Attorneys Shine in 2026 Chambers USA Rankings
Ward and Smith has once again been recognized as one of North Carolina’s leading law firms in the 2026 edition of Chambers USA.
The firm earned rankings in five key practice areas, with numerous individual attorneys highlighted for their legal skill, client service, and industry knowledge.
Chambers USA rankings are based on extensive research and in-depth interviews with clients and peers, offering an independent and respected assessment of the top lawyers and law firms across the country.
Bankruptcy/Restructuring – Band 3
Ward and Smith’s Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights Practice Group continues to receive strong praise from clients for its high-quality service and strategic insight. Clients spoke highly of the group’s responsiveness and professionalism.
“I highly recommend this firm, they are prepared and professional with a great sense of urgency,” shared one client. Another said “The firm is very quick to respond and very thorough in explaining our best options,” while another noted, “Ward and Smith is an established firm that provides dependable service.”
Paul A. Fanning
Band 3
Lance P. Martin
Band 3
Led by Paul Fanning, the practice group is recognized for its depth and responsiveness. Fanning, who chairs the group, is described as “an excellent attorney and is lovely to work with.” Another client noted, “Paul is very worthy and confident. You want him in your corner.”
Fellow Band 3 honoree Lance Martin is praised as “very realistic and I trust him.”
Energy & Natural Resources
Christina Cress, who leads the firm’s Energy + Utilities Practice, was named an Up and Coming attorney for her work in energy regulation. A client shared, “Christina understands the regulatory world and translates it into general industry speak.”
Christina D. Cress
Up and Coming
Environment
Amy Wang, head of the firm’s Environment Practice Group, was recognized for her growing influence in environmental law. Known for her thoughtful and solutions-oriented guidance, she assists clients with regulatory and permitting matters, particularly in the coastal and natural resource sectors. As one client observed, “Amy is an excellent attorney and business advisor.”
Amy P. Wang
Band 4
Ward and Smith’s Insurance Counseling + Recovery Practice Group earned a top-tier Band 1 ranking, reflecting the team’s extensive experience and reputation for delivering exceptional results. Clients spoke highly of the group’s responsiveness, professionalism, and depth of knowledge.
“Ward and Smith is a juggernaut firm whose expertise in insurance is cutting-edge,” shared one client. Another called it “a great law firm with a great reputation,” while another noted, “The team is responsive, communicative and commercially aware.”
Amy Wooten, co-chair of the practice group, earned individual Band 1 recognition for her representation of policyholders in complex coverage disputes. Her practice spans a wide array of insurance issues, and clients consistently credit her with driving favorable outcomes. As one client put it: “Amy is always exceedingly well-prepared and thinking one step ahead. She is commercially aware, keeps up to speed with market trends and really understands our business needs.”
Amy H. Wooten
Band 1
Intellectual Property – Band 3
Ward and Smith’s Intellectual Property Practice Group earned a Band 3 ranking, with clients highlighting its client-focused approach, legal insight, and proactive communication. One remarked, “Availability and consistency in meeting client needs are paramount in distinguishing Ward and Smith.”
Angela Doughty, who leads the group, was described as “without a doubt the top of field for efficiency and knowledge of trademark law.”
Arthur DeBaugh, a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law, is recognized for his strategic and practical counsel in brand protection.
Joseph Schouten, ranked in Band 4, is praised as “has a lot of tenacity and energy.”
Ward and Smith’s Labor and Employment Practice was ranked Band 4 for its comprehensive counsel and practical, business-oriented advice.
S. McKinley Gray, III
Band 4
Ken Gray, a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Employment Law and practice group leader at Ward and Smith, has earned his first ranking in Chambers USA.
Litigation: General Commercial
Gavin Parsons continues to be a go-to attorney for complex commercial litigation. Known for his steady leadership and courtroom skill, clients praised “Gavin Parsons is a skilled litigator who knows how to read a jury and communicate with them effectively.”
Gavin B. Parsons
Band 4
Ward and Smith’s Real Estate Practice received a Band 4 ranking, reflecting its reputation for guiding clients through complex transactions with efficiency and clarity.
Real Estate: Zoning and Land Use
Sam Franck, a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Real Property Law: Commercial Transactions and co-leader of the firm’s real estate practice group, has received his inaugural recognition in Chambers USA.
Samuel B. Franck
Band 3
About Chambers
Chambers USA’s rigorous ranking process involves confidential interviews with clients and attorneys, along with a comprehensive assessment of the firm’s recent work. Firms and attorneys must demonstrate consistent excellence to secure recognition in this prestigious guide.
To learn more about Ward and Smith’s 2026 Chambers USA rankings or its legal services, visit Chambers.com.
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