Best Lawyers®, one of the most respected peer-review publications in the legal profession, has selected two Ward and Smith attorneys as 2020 "Lawyer of the Year."
Asheville attorney Derek Allen and Wilmington attorney C.H. Pope were both recognized for their work in Land Use and Zoning Law. The "Lawyer of the Year" recognition is awarded to individual attorneys with the highest overall peer-feedback and is only given to a single attorney in each specialty and location.
Derek leads the Alcoholic Beverage Law, Real Estate Development, and Zoning and Land Use practices. He has extensive experience with craft breweries ranging in size from small startups to those with national distribution. His practice includes representation of craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries in a wide range of permitting, regulatory, and trade issues.
C. H. has extensive experience in representing both entities and individuals in matters involving real estate and construction opportunities and issues. He advises clients involved in the acquisition, financing, leasing, and sale of real estate; and the construction of improvements. C. H. also has extensive experience in guiding clients through the maze of governmental approval, zoning, and subdivision issues that surround the development and use of real estate.