About Ann
Ann H. Smith: Experienced Employment Law Attorney in Raleigh, North Carolina
Ann H. Smith is a Partner at Jackson Lewis P.C.’s Raleigh/Durham office, where she provides strategic legal counsel and aggressive advocacy for employers facing complex employment law challenges. With over 25 years of dedicated experience since 1996, Ms. Smith is a recognized leader in employment law, having successfully represented and advised a diverse range of clients – from Fortune 250 corporations to governmental entities – across numerous litigation matters. Her deep understanding of federal and state laws, coupled with her meticulous attention to detail, allows her to deliver exceptional results for her clients.
Ms. Smith specializes in a broad spectrum of employment disputes, including those involving violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. She possesses extensive experience in navigating intricate immunity issues and has a proven track record of defending employers against claims of discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, and wage and hour violations. Her litigation expertise is particularly strong in complex, high-stakes cases, frequently involving extensive discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation. She provides proactive legal guidance to help organizations develop and implement compliant employment policies and practices, mitigating risk and safeguarding their valuable assets.
Beyond her courtroom successes, Ms. Smith is deeply committed to professional development and education. She is a member of the North Carolina Bar Association and the Employment Law Section of the Defense Research Institute (DRI), where she leverages her knowledge to support and advance the field. Her previous service on the Professionalism Committee of the North Carolina Bar Association reflects her dedication to ethical conduct and upholding the highest standards of the legal profession. In 2002, Ms. Smith was recognized as an Outstanding Volunteer by the Wake County Volunteer Lawyers Program, highlighting her commitment to pro bono service and access to justice.
Ms. Smith is a frequent and sought-after speaker before numerous business and employer associations, including the North Carolina League of Municipalities, the North Carolina Municipal Attorney’s Association, and the International Public Management Association for Human Resources. She has co-authored “Damages, Damages, Damages! Damages Issues and Practical Strategies for Damages Containment,” a widely respected resource utilized by attorneys and legal professionals. This book showcases her expertise in mitigating damages in employment litigation.
Legal Expertise & Admissions
Ms. Smith’s legal practice is firmly rooted in a commitment to strategic advocacy and thorough preparation. She is admitted to practice in all North Carolina State Courts, as well as all U.S. District Courts in North Carolina and the Fourth Circuit. This extensive jurisdictional reach ensures that she can represent clients effectively at every stage of the legal process. Her dedication to excellence extends beyond courtroom advocacy; she consistently seeks opportunities to enhance her knowledge and skills through continuing legal education and professional development. She is also recognized within the legal community through inclusion in Best Attorney USA since 2013.
Education & Credentials
Ms. Smith’s legal education is a cornerstone of her success. She earned her B.A. in English, *summa cum laude*, from North Carolina State University and her J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she was a member of the Holderness Moot Court. This rigorous academic background provides her with a strong foundation in legal principles and critical thinking, enabling her to effectively analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions for her clients.
Practice Areas
Litigation - Labor and Employment
Management - Employment Law
Awards & Recognition
Recognized: Employment Law - Management, Recognized: Litigation - Labor and Employment, Special Focus: COVID-19, Outstanding Volunteer for the Wake County Volunteer Lawyers Program (2002)
Affiliations
North Carolina Bar Association, Employment Law Section of the Defense Research Institute
City: Raleigh, State: North Carolina, Country: United States
Bar Admissions: All North Carolina State Courts, All U.S. District Courts in North Carolina, Fourth Circuit
