Snell, Ryan W.

For more than ten years, Mr. Smith, a shareholder and director of the firm, has concentrated in the following areas:

Intellectual Property
Mr. Smith advises clients on a variety of intellectual property issues. He represents business clients in litigation and the prosecution of trademark applications. He also regularly counsels clients regarding copyright and trademark issues that may arise in their business environment, including how to respond to "cease and desist" letters, insuring ownership of intellectual property and potential infringement claims. Mr. Smith also advises clients on internet related issues including domain name disputes, web development agreements, privacy concerns and trademark and copyright infringement.

Insurance Coverage
Mr. Smith has substantial experience representing both carriers and policyholders in insurance coverage matters. Mr. Smith is involved in every phase of the coverage process. He provides coverage opinions and representation in coverage litigation. Mr. Smith advises clients on a variety of matters, including coverage for environmental liabilities, business losses, intellectual property disputes, sexual harassment claims and uninsured motorist claims. Mr. Smith has represented clients in the state trial courts, in the Vermont Supreme Court and the Federal Courts including the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr. Smith is a member of the Torts and Insurance Practice Section of the American Bar Association.

Civil Litigation
Mr. Smith has an active civil litigation practice.  He represents a number of large companies in construction defect claims.  He also has represented petroleum distributors in toxic tort and enviornmental litigation.  He also frequently represents companies and individuals accused of consumer fraud.

Other Background:
Before returning to Vermont, Mr. Smith worked in New York with the law firm, Lord Day & Lord, Barrett, Smith. Mr. Smith is actively involved with his fraternity Phi Delta Theta, where he is a member of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Smith also serves on the Board of Directors of Lamoille Home Health and Hospice. Since 2003, Mr. Smith has served as a member of Vermont's House of Representatives. Currently, he serves on the Ways and Means Committee. Mr. Smith is an avid cross country skier. He lives in Morristown with his wife Melissa, son Eli and daughter Mia.