Candace B. Smith practices in the areas of general and energy litigation. Candace is a key player in defending firm clients and is often involved in litigation from the inception, including pre-case assessment and litigation planning. Recently, Smith has briefed appeals for matters in the Sixth Circuit, as well as in Kentucky state court on behalf of both appellant and appellee.
Clients in the energy industry appreciate her ability to act quickly, while keeping their business interests at the forefront. Candace has a unique skillset and is comfortable in the court room, interviewing witnesses and taking depositions, and researching complex lease and royalty issues. Candace recently completed the University of Virginia Trial Academy.
EXPERIENCE:
- Served as second chair for trials in state and federal court and managed extensive pretrial discovery, motion and brief drafting, and witness preparation
- Litigated oil and gas well and pipeline claims on surface use, ownership, drilling rights, breach of contract, royalty payments, and lease interpretation
- Represented oil and gas company operator in matter involving mineral trespass and accusation of depletion of oil and gas reserves
- Handled claims for surface property damage as a result of oil and gas drilling operations
- Litigated personal injury matter for international nonprofit organization and obtained summary judgment, resulting in dismissal
- Interviewed and deposed dozens of key witnesses in matters involving workplace safety, discrimination, and personal injury for mine operators
- Represented individual and corporate interests in a wide variety of tort, breach of contract, and employment discrimination claims
- Represented insurance carrier on an uninsured motorists claim involving personal injury
- Negotiated with the Federal Mine Safety and Health Administration regarding civil penalties for citations
Education:
- J.D. Wake Forest University
- B.A. Transylvania University
Memberships:
- Member, Central Kentucky American Inn of Court
- Kentucky Coal Association
- Graduate, Leadership Lexington, 2017
- Junior League of Lexington, 2014-2015
- Board, Living Arts & Science Center H’artful of Fun, 2013-2014
- Member, Junior League of Winston-Salem, 2012-2013
Cost
Rate : $$$