Candace B. Smith
Member
Litigation
J.D. Wake Forest University
B.A. Transylvania University
Office:
Lexington, KY
(859) 219-8211
Biography
When choosing a litigator, certain characteristics stand out above others, such as curiosity, intellect, and a passion to dig deep to find solutions. These characteristics also define Candace Smith.
Her work ethic was evident even as a young child – on her first day of kindergarten, Candace begged her teacher for homework. Building from there, Candace now zealously advocates on behalf of her clients, Candace lives by the notion that going the extra mile can be the tipping point between success and failure.
Candace is a sought-after energy litigator because she is fiercely dedicated to crafting approaches that support her client’s interests. She has successfully taken on federal government officials within the Mine Safety and Health Administration to defend coal company clients. For years, she has effectively defended large companies in commercial and property disputes in some of the most notorious jurisdictions in Kentucky. Now, she is one of the few attorneys leading the way into renewable energy law in Kentucky. At the same time, Candace has become one of the preeminent appellate attorneys in the Commonwealth by practicing nearly a dozen cases before Kentucky’s appellate courts and the Sixth Circuit.
When Candace is not working for her legal clients, she devotes much of her spare time to helping others in the community. Candace’s other passion is working to heal and empower young, single moms in Lexington in her role as Vice President of the Board of Step By Step, Inc. After years of mentoring young, single moms, Candace joined the Board of Directors in 2017, and has served as Vice President for two years, chaired the annual “Step Into Beautiful” fundraiser for two years, and served on several committees. Through working with Step By Step, Candace has seen first-hand how giving to your community can result in lasting, positive change.
Memberships & Awards
Professional
Member, Central Kentucky American Inn of CourtBusiness Editor, Wake Forest Law ReviewThe Best Lawyers in America®, Commercial Litigation (2023-Present)
Key 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
Know-How
Work Experience
2013 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
Speaking Engagements
“Property Owner Owes No Legal Duty to Neighboring Cattle Farmers for Harm Caused by Poisonous Yew Bushes,” for Cow Country News (December 2019)“Default Method for Calculating Royalties in KY, WV, PA, VA,” Southern Appalachian Association of Professional Landmen, December 2016