A
YRES
W
ARREN
S
HELTON
W
ILLIAMS
14th Floor, Regions Tower
333 Texas Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
333 Texas Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
Post Office Box 1764
Shreveport, LA 71166
Telephone: 318-227-3500
Facsimile: 318-227-3980
Shreveport, LA 71166
Telephone: 318-227-3500
Facsimile: 318-227-3980
© 2008-2010 Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC Attorneys at Law All Rights Reserved
NEWS
September, 2010 Ayres Warren Shelton & Williams has received a 2010 "Best Law Firm" ranking from US News and World Report
Ayres Warren Shelton & Williams has received a 2010 "Best Law Firm" ranking from US News and World Report in the field of tax law. Best Lawyers has partnered with U.S. News & World Report, the leading rankings publication in the U.S., to establish the U.S.News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firm" rankings that was released in print and online on Wednesday, September 15th. Ben Warren and John Williams are listed lawyers in tax law, and Lee Ayres is a listed lawyer in litigation. Todd Benson is also a listed lawyer in immigration law.
March, 2011. Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., Curtis R. Shelton and John R. Williams selected to be listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community
Each of Lee Ayres, Ben Warren, Curtis Shelton and John Williams have been listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community.
January, 2010 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren and John R. Williams are again listed in Super Lawyers for Louisiana for 2009 in the fields of litigation law, corporate law and taxation law, respectively
Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. and John R. Williams have been selected for listing in Super Lawyers for 2010. This marks the fourth consecutive year that both Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. have been selected to be listed by the publication. Lee H. Ayres was recognized in the field of litigation. J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was recognized in the fields of corporate law and tax law. John R. Williams was recognized in the field of tax law for the second consecutive year.
All aspects of the selection process are performed by Law & Politics, a publication of Key Professional Media, Inc. Law & Politics reports that, in selecting attorneys for Super Lawyers, it "employs a rigorous, multiphase process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Law & Politics prides itself on the strict editorial standards it employs during the rigorous selection process."
Lawyers are evaluated on 12 main indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement: Verdicts and settlements, Transactions, Representative clients, Experience, Honors and awards, Special licenses and certifications, Position within law firm, Bar and/or other professional activity, Pro bono and community service, Scholarly lectures and writings, Education and employment background, and other outstanding achievements.
Learn more at www.superlawyers.com/index.html
October 8, 2009 Lee Ayres honored at Defense Research Institute Annual Meeting
Lee Ayres was honored at the annual meeting of the Defense Research Institute which recognized the completion of his three-year term as the Louisiana representative to the institute. The institute recognized Mr. Ayres' efforts in "directing and guiding DRI membership activity within Louisiana, for upholding the tenets of DRI and for his tireless service in the role of state representative."
August 3, 2009 Stephen J. Paine has joined Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams is proud to announce the addition of Stephen J. Paine as an associate with the firm. Mr. Paine received his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University, where he attended a five-year Professional Program in Accounting. He graduated 3rd in his law school class at Louisiana State University and was a Senior Editor for the Louisiana Law Review and a member of the Order of the Coif.
Mr. Paine is admitted to the Colorado State Bar, the Alabama State Bar, and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Immediately before joining our firm, Mr. Paine was employed with Hogan & Hartson L.L.P. Mr. Paine advised clients with respect to entity formation, equity and debt financings and other general corporate issues for early stage and venture-backed companies. He participated in various aspects of stock and asset acquisitions. Mr. Paine represented clients in mergers and reorganizations, including the drafting of definitive agreements and relevant Form S-4 registration statements. He counseled clients regarding securities laws compliance for public companies, including the Securities Act of 1934, NYSE and NASDAQ stock exchanges, and assisted with corporate finance transactions, initial public offerings, universal shelf filings and takedowns.
Mr. Paine's addition continues the firm's expansion of its corporate and transactions practice.
July 30, 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, John R. Williams and J. Todd Benson are listed in the Woodard and White Publication "The Best Lawyers in America" for 2010
Four of Ayres, Warren, Shelton and Williams lawyers will be listed in the Woodard and White Publication "The Best Lawyers in America" for 2010.
The publication will list Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., John R. Williams and J. Todd Benson. The listings will be included in the practice areas for litigation and taxation. The firm's taxation law practice will be listed as #1 in Shreveport.
The Best Lawyers ranking is compiled through a confidential, nation-wide survey of lawyers about their peers and is published by Woodward/White, Inc. Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peer review publication in the legal profession.
July 30, 2009 Lee H. Ayres serves as faculty member of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel's Trial Academy
Lee H. Ayres served on the faculty of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel's Trial Academy. This year was a special occasion as it marked the 25th annual trial academy. In addition to serving as a faculty member, Mr. Ayres is a member of the trial academy board and a team leader. This year he performed the faculty demonstration of the opening statement for the defense. In prior years, he has performed the faculty demonstrations of the direct examination of a lay witness, cross-examination of an expert witness, and closing arguments. The trial academy is held every year at Loyola University's School of Law in New Orleans.
June 1, 2009 J. Benjamin Warren takes reins as Chairman of the Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization.
The Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization oversees and implements the requirements relating to the Tax Law Specialization under the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization of the Louisiana State Bar Association. This includes continuing legal education, requirements for certification as a Board Certified Tax Law Specialist and examination functions. The Tax Law Advisory Commission is made up of the elected commission members of the bar from across the State of Louisiana.
May 26, 2009 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was nominated and accepted for membership in the Committee of the One Hundred
The Committee of One Hundred, Inc is a non-profit organization that was organized in 1961 to do all things of a civic, educational, and charitable nature to promote the general welfare of the cities of Shreveport and Bossier, their respective parishes, and the surrounding area of Northwest Louisiana. It consists of the highest-ranking local executive of business and professional enterprises transacting business actively in Northwest Louisiana.
May 7, 2009 Lee Ayres inducted as Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America
On May 7, 2009, Lee H. Ayres was inducted as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America. As such, Mr. Ayres now stands among less than one half of one percent of all American lawyers in this prestigious Trial Lawyer Honorary Society.
As stated by The Litigation Counsel of America:
"Litigation Counsel of America is an invitation- only trial lawyer honorary society established to reflect the new face of the American bar. Membership is limited to 3,500 Fellows, representing less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers. The composition of the LCA is aggressively diverse, with recognition of excellence among American litigation and trial counsel across all segments of the bar. The purpose of the LCA is to recognize deserving, experienced, and highly qualified lawyers, to provide an outlet for scholarly authorship of legal articles on trial and litigation practice, to provide additional sources for professional development, to promote superior advocacy and ethical standards in the practice of law, to assist in community involvement by its membership, and to advance a superior judiciary, by taking relevant positions on issues or legislation affecting judicial compensation and/or benefits, as well as those affecting the American litigation processes."
Learn more at www.litcounsel.org
May 2009 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named Chair of the Examination Committee for the 2010 Tax Specialization Exam for the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
J. Benjamin Warren. Jr. has served as a member of the Examination Committee for the Tax Law Advisory Commission to the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization from 1998 to present. His responsibilities during this time have included drafting questions for the Tax Specialization Exam and participating in grading the examinations.
April 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., Curtis R. Shelton, John R. Williams and Jason W. Poe listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community
Five of the firm's lawyers were selected for inclusion in SB Magazine's Best Lawyers in the Shreveport-Bossier community. SB Magazine conducts an annual local survey to arrive at a listing of the best lawyers in Shreveport and Bossier City. The firm's lawyers have been listed in numerous past SB Magazine's Best Lawyers publications.
March 13, 2009 Lee Ayres serves as Chairman of Louisiana State Bar Association's Insurance Law Seminar
Under Lee Ayres' management, the Louisiana State Bar Association enjoyed a successful Insurance Law Seminar in New Orleans, Louisiana.
As Chairman of the seminar, Mr. Ayres' responsibilities included recruiting relevant speakers, choosing the topics on which to speak and serving as the master of ceremonies during question and answer sessions.
Under Mr. Ayres' direction, attendees heard from seven speakers who presented diverse and timely presentations on various aspects of insurance law while also benefiting from the interaction with other lawyers in their field of practice.
March 9, 2009 Lee Ayres added to the Bar Register for Preeminent Lawyers by Martindale-Hubbell
Martindale-Hubbell has added Lee Ayres to its Bar Register for Preeminent Lawyers. According to Martindale-Hubbell: "For over 90 years, the Bar Register has been a unique guide to the legal community's most eminent professionals. It includes only those select law practices that have earned the highest rating in the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory and have been designated by their colleagues as preeminient in their fields.
Mr. Ayres was listed as "AV Preeminent".
January 15, 2009 Our firm is proud to announce J. Todd Benson will join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams is proud to announce the addition of J. Todd Benson as an attorney with the firm. Mr. Benson is a trial lawyer. He has tried jury trials in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, numerous Louisiana state courts, and Arkansas courts. He has successfully prosecuted and argued appeals in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, the Louisiana Supreme Court, and the Louisiana intermediate appellate courts.
Mr. Benson is a 1995 graduate of the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, where he was a member of the Order of the Coif and a Member of the Louisiana Law Review. Following his graduation, he was inducted into the Paul M. Hebert Law Center Hall of Fame. Mr. Benson formerly practiced with the principles of our firm in the firm of Cook, Yancey, King & Galloway.
January, 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren and John R. Williams listed in Super Lawyers for Louisiana for 2009 in the fields of litigation law, corporate law and taxation law, respectively
Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. and John R. Williams have been selected for listing in Super Lawyers for 2009. This marks the third consecutive year that both Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. have been selected to be listed by the publication. Lee H. Ayres was recognized in the field of litigation. J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was recognized in the fields of corporate law and tax law. John R. Williams was recognized in the field of tax law.
All aspects of the selection process are performed by Law & Politics, a publication of Key Professional Media, Inc. Law & Politics reports that, in selecting attorneys for Super Lawyers, it "employs a rigorous, multiphase process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Law & Politics prides itself on the strict editorial standards it employs during the rigorous selection process."
Lawyers are evaluated on 12 main indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement: Verdicts and settlements, Transactions, Representative clients, Experience, Honors and awards, Special licenses and certifications, Position within law firm, Bar and/or other professional activity, Pro bono and community service, Scholarly lectures and writings, Education and employment background, and other outstanding achievements.
Learn more at www.superlawyers.com/index.html
December 15, 2008 Tulane Law School student Sarah E. Smith accepts position with Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
The Firm proudly announces that Sarah E. Smith has accepted a position with the firm. Sarah will begin her practice of law with the firm in August, 2009.
October 23, 2008 Defense Research Institute names Lee Ayres as Outstanding State Representative of the Year
In October 2008, the Defense Research Institute (DRI) named Lee Ayres as Outstanding State Representative of the Year during its annual meeting.
The Defense Research Institute is the international organization of attorneys defending the interests of business and individuals in civil litigation. Its goal is to enhance the "skills, effectiveness, and professionalism of defense lawyers" while "improving the civil justice system and preserving the civil jury."
Learn more about DRI at www.dri.org/Home.aspx
October 15, 2008 Willard E. (Robby) Robertson joins Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams; Firm Size Doubles since February, 2008, opening
The firm proudly announces that Willard E. (Robby) Robertson has joined the firm in its commercial practice. Mr. Robertson is a Shreveport native, having graduated from Jesuit High School. Mr. Roberston continued his education at Southern Methodist University and then obtained a B.S. in Business Administration and Finance from the University of New Orleans. Mr. Robertson obtained his juris doctorate degree from Tulane University School of Law in 1995.
The Firm opened in February, 2008, with four attorneys and has now expanded to eight lawyers.
September 26, 2008 New Orleans, Louisiana: Lee Ayres named Chairman of Insurance Law Program
We are proud to announce that Lee Ayres has been named as the Chairman of the Insurance Law Program to be presented by the Louisiana State Bar Association in New Orleans, Louisiana.
September 12, 2008 Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams Enters Long-Term Lease/Continues Pursuit of Expansion
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams has entered into a 20-year lease of its 14th floor offices in Regions Tower and has expanded those offices by an additional 3,000 square feet. As stated by Manager John Williams: "The substantial growth of our clients' business has brought us nearly to double our resources in our first six months of operations, and we are continuing to recruit and hire additional attorneys. Considering our clients' needs, we felt compelled to assure that we have ample office space to continue providing the service that has fueled our joint success." Currently architectural design work is underway for the remodeling of an expansion of the firm's office.
August 14, 2008 Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams Employees Receive Loyalty Award
Celebrating 180 days since its opening, Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams held a special luncheon at the Petroleum Club for its employees, at which employees were given an unexpected loyalty award. "We value our our employees, and we appreciate the loyalty which they have demonstrated by joining our firm at the time that it was initially formed or shortly thereafter", said Ben Warren. He added: "We know people changed their careers and their lives to support us; we hold loyalty as one of our highest values."
August 2008 Lee Ayres served as faculty member of Louisiana State University Law School's Trial Advocacy Training Program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
As a faculty member of the Louisiana State University Law School's Trial Advocacy Training Program, Mr. Ayres helped to enrich the education of senior law students by assisting them with their litigation skills.
This three day NITA-styled program incorporates knowledge of trial tactics and procedure with experience in mock trial exercises and hands-on critiques. The faculty is composed of experienced and accomplished judges and attorneys from across the country.
June 18, 2008 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named as Board Member of the Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
The Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization oversees and implements the requirements relating to the Tax Law Specialization under the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization of the Louisiana State Bar Association. This includes continuing legal education, requirements for certification as a Board Certified Tax Law Specialist and examination functions.
May 15, 2008 Karen P. Thomason to join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
We are pleased to announce that Karen P. Thomason will be joining the firm on May 15th. Ms. Thomason is well known to lawyers practicing in northwest Louisiana having previously practiced in Shreveport, Louisiana. Ms. Thomason will further the firm's goals of responsive and reliable client service.
Ms. Thomason received her undergraduate degree in 1984 in Speech Language Therapy from Louisiana Tech University where she graduated summa cum laude. Ms. Thomason obtained a masters degree in 1985 in Speech Language Pathology from Louisiana Tech University where she also pursued graduate studies in audiology from 1990 to 1991. Ms. Thomason obtained her law degree from Louisiana State University an d was admitted to practice in 1997.
Ms. Thomason's work experience includes employment as an attorney with Cook, Yancey, King and Galloway, Shreveport, Louisiana, Brice, Vander Linden & Wernick, Dallas, Texas, Davis Munck, Dallas, Texas and the position of Director, Compliance & Development with Rehab Pro, L.P. Ms. Thomason is certified in Basic Mediation and Family Mediation and has served as a mediator with Dispute Resolution Services of Ft. Worth, Texas.
Ms. Thomason represents financial institutions and lenders in creditor's rights and collections generally and in protection of creditor's rights in bankruptcy. Ms. Thomason also handles business transactions and litigation matters.
Ms. Thomason is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and has been admitted to practice in the Louisiana state courts, the United States district and bankruptcy courts for the Eastern, Western and Middle Districts of Louisiana and the United States district and bankruptcy courts for the Northern, Eastern and Southern Districts of Texas.
March 26-28, 2008 Las Vegas, Nevada: Lee Ayres to speak at DRI Damages Seminar
Lee Ayres joins a panel of other nationally known speakers at the Defense Research Institute's Damages Seminar and will speak on the topic "The Effective Use of the Media to Minimize Damages". Mr. Ayres will address why, in certain cases, lawyers and clients need to devote the same level of commitment, strategic planning and attention to detail with regard to their media relations as they do their typical preparation for trial. The development of a media relations plan to minimize damages, the ethics of media relations and good habits in any lawyer's relationship with the media will be addressed.
March 18, 2008 Mark E. Posey to join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, L.L.C. is excited that Mark E. Posey will join the firm as an associate beginning March 18, 2008. Mr. Posey is admitted in Louisiana and Texas, and his addition further augments the firm's practices in Louisiana and Texas. Mr. Posey brings extensive litigation experience to the firm in both states.
February 18, 2008 Jason W. Poe joins Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, L.L.C. is pleased to announce the addition of Jason W. Poe as an associate with the firm. Mr. Poe is presently admitted in Texas, and brings the number of attorneys in the firm admitted to practice in Texas to three, strengthening the firm's ability to serve its clients in east Texas.
February 1, 2008 Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. to be listed in Super Lawyers
Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. will be listed in Super Lawyers for the second consecutive year. Mr. Ayres' practice includes civil litigation, including tort, personal injury, property damage, insurance defense, insurance bad faith and insurance fraud, death and disability claims, products liability, premises liability, professional errors and omissions liability and breach of contract matters. Mr. Warren's practice focuses primarily on transactions and federal and state taxation, with an emphasis in the corporate, partnership and planning areas.
January 2008 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named to the Examination Committee for the 2009 Tax Specialization Exam for the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. has served on the Examination Committee for the Tax Law Advisory Commission to the Louisiana Board of the Legal Specialization from 1998 to present. His responsibilities during this time have included drafting questions for the Tax Specialization Exam and participating in the grading of the examinations.
September, 2010 Ayres Warren Shelton & Williams has received a 2010 "Best Law Firm" ranking from US News and World Report
Ayres Warren Shelton & Williams has received a 2010 "Best Law Firm" ranking from US News and World Report in the field of tax law. Best Lawyers has partnered with U.S. News & World Report, the leading rankings publication in the U.S., to establish the U.S.News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firm" rankings that was released in print and online on Wednesday, September 15th. Ben Warren and John Williams are listed lawyers in tax law, and Lee Ayres is a listed lawyer in litigation. Todd Benson is also a listed lawyer in immigration law.
March, 2011. Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., Curtis R. Shelton and John R. Williams selected to be listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community
Each of Lee Ayres, Ben Warren, Curtis Shelton and John Williams have been listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community.
January, 2010 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren and John R. Williams are again listed in Super Lawyers for Louisiana for 2009 in the fields of litigation law, corporate law and taxation law, respectively
Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. and John R. Williams have been selected for listing in Super Lawyers for 2010. This marks the fourth consecutive year that both Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. have been selected to be listed by the publication. Lee H. Ayres was recognized in the field of litigation. J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was recognized in the fields of corporate law and tax law. John R. Williams was recognized in the field of tax law for the second consecutive year.
All aspects of the selection process are performed by Law & Politics, a publication of Key Professional Media, Inc. Law & Politics reports that, in selecting attorneys for Super Lawyers, it "employs a rigorous, multiphase process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Law & Politics prides itself on the strict editorial standards it employs during the rigorous selection process."
Lawyers are evaluated on 12 main indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement: Verdicts and settlements, Transactions, Representative clients, Experience, Honors and awards, Special licenses and certifications, Position within law firm, Bar and/or other professional activity, Pro bono and community service, Scholarly lectures and writings, Education and employment background, and other outstanding achievements.
Learn more at www.superlawyers.com/index.html
October 8, 2009 Lee Ayres honored at Defense Research Institute Annual Meeting
Lee Ayres was honored at the annual meeting of the Defense Research Institute which recognized the completion of his three-year term as the Louisiana representative to the institute. The institute recognized Mr. Ayres' efforts in "directing and guiding DRI membership activity within Louisiana, for upholding the tenets of DRI and for his tireless service in the role of state representative."
August 3, 2009 Stephen J. Paine has joined Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams is proud to announce the addition of Stephen J. Paine as an associate with the firm. Mr. Paine received his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University, where he attended a five-year Professional Program in Accounting. He graduated 3rd in his law school class at Louisiana State University and was a Senior Editor for the Louisiana Law Review and a member of the Order of the Coif.
Mr. Paine is admitted to the Colorado State Bar, the Alabama State Bar, and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Immediately before joining our firm, Mr. Paine was employed with Hogan & Hartson L.L.P. Mr. Paine advised clients with respect to entity formation, equity and debt financings and other general corporate issues for early stage and venture-backed companies. He participated in various aspects of stock and asset acquisitions. Mr. Paine represented clients in mergers and reorganizations, including the drafting of definitive agreements and relevant Form S-4 registration statements. He counseled clients regarding securities laws compliance for public companies, including the Securities Act of 1934, NYSE and NASDAQ stock exchanges, and assisted with corporate finance transactions, initial public offerings, universal shelf filings and takedowns.
Mr. Paine's addition continues the firm's expansion of its corporate and transactions practice.
July 30, 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, John R. Williams and J. Todd Benson are listed in the Woodard and White Publication "The Best Lawyers in America" for 2010
Four of Ayres, Warren, Shelton and Williams lawyers will be listed in the Woodard and White Publication "The Best Lawyers in America" for 2010.
The publication will list Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., John R. Williams and J. Todd Benson. The listings will be included in the practice areas for litigation and taxation. The firm's taxation law practice will be listed as #1 in Shreveport.
The Best Lawyers ranking is compiled through a confidential, nation-wide survey of lawyers about their peers and is published by Woodward/White, Inc. Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peer review publication in the legal profession.
July 30, 2009 Lee H. Ayres serves as faculty member of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel's Trial Academy
Lee H. Ayres served on the faculty of the Louisiana Association of Defense Counsel's Trial Academy. This year was a special occasion as it marked the 25th annual trial academy. In addition to serving as a faculty member, Mr. Ayres is a member of the trial academy board and a team leader. This year he performed the faculty demonstration of the opening statement for the defense. In prior years, he has performed the faculty demonstrations of the direct examination of a lay witness, cross-examination of an expert witness, and closing arguments. The trial academy is held every year at Loyola University's School of Law in New Orleans.
June 1, 2009 J. Benjamin Warren takes reins as Chairman of the Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization.
The Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization oversees and implements the requirements relating to the Tax Law Specialization under the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization of the Louisiana State Bar Association. This includes continuing legal education, requirements for certification as a Board Certified Tax Law Specialist and examination functions. The Tax Law Advisory Commission is made up of the elected commission members of the bar from across the State of Louisiana.
May 26, 2009 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was nominated and accepted for membership in the Committee of the One Hundred
The Committee of One Hundred, Inc is a non-profit organization that was organized in 1961 to do all things of a civic, educational, and charitable nature to promote the general welfare of the cities of Shreveport and Bossier, their respective parishes, and the surrounding area of Northwest Louisiana. It consists of the highest-ranking local executive of business and professional enterprises transacting business actively in Northwest Louisiana.
May 7, 2009 Lee Ayres inducted as Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America
On May 7, 2009, Lee H. Ayres was inducted as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America. As such, Mr. Ayres now stands among less than one half of one percent of all American lawyers in this prestigious Trial Lawyer Honorary Society.
As stated by The Litigation Counsel of America:
"Litigation Counsel of America is an invitation- only trial lawyer honorary society established to reflect the new face of the American bar. Membership is limited to 3,500 Fellows, representing less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers. The composition of the LCA is aggressively diverse, with recognition of excellence among American litigation and trial counsel across all segments of the bar. The purpose of the LCA is to recognize deserving, experienced, and highly qualified lawyers, to provide an outlet for scholarly authorship of legal articles on trial and litigation practice, to provide additional sources for professional development, to promote superior advocacy and ethical standards in the practice of law, to assist in community involvement by its membership, and to advance a superior judiciary, by taking relevant positions on issues or legislation affecting judicial compensation and/or benefits, as well as those affecting the American litigation processes."
Learn more at www.litcounsel.org
May 2009 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named Chair of the Examination Committee for the 2010 Tax Specialization Exam for the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
J. Benjamin Warren. Jr. has served as a member of the Examination Committee for the Tax Law Advisory Commission to the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization from 1998 to present. His responsibilities during this time have included drafting questions for the Tax Specialization Exam and participating in grading the examinations.
April 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr., Curtis R. Shelton, John R. Williams and Jason W. Poe listed in SB Magazine's annual survey of the best lawyers in our community
Five of the firm's lawyers were selected for inclusion in SB Magazine's Best Lawyers in the Shreveport-Bossier community. SB Magazine conducts an annual local survey to arrive at a listing of the best lawyers in Shreveport and Bossier City. The firm's lawyers have been listed in numerous past SB Magazine's Best Lawyers publications.
March 13, 2009 Lee Ayres serves as Chairman of Louisiana State Bar Association's Insurance Law Seminar
Under Lee Ayres' management, the Louisiana State Bar Association enjoyed a successful Insurance Law Seminar in New Orleans, Louisiana.
As Chairman of the seminar, Mr. Ayres' responsibilities included recruiting relevant speakers, choosing the topics on which to speak and serving as the master of ceremonies during question and answer sessions.
Under Mr. Ayres' direction, attendees heard from seven speakers who presented diverse and timely presentations on various aspects of insurance law while also benefiting from the interaction with other lawyers in their field of practice.
March 9, 2009 Lee Ayres added to the Bar Register for Preeminent Lawyers by Martindale-Hubbell
Martindale-Hubbell has added Lee Ayres to its Bar Register for Preeminent Lawyers. According to Martindale-Hubbell: "For over 90 years, the Bar Register has been a unique guide to the legal community's most eminent professionals. It includes only those select law practices that have earned the highest rating in the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory and have been designated by their colleagues as preeminient in their fields.
Mr. Ayres was listed as "AV Preeminent".
January 15, 2009 Our firm is proud to announce J. Todd Benson will join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams is proud to announce the addition of J. Todd Benson as an attorney with the firm. Mr. Benson is a trial lawyer. He has tried jury trials in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, numerous Louisiana state courts, and Arkansas courts. He has successfully prosecuted and argued appeals in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, the Louisiana Supreme Court, and the Louisiana intermediate appellate courts.
Mr. Benson is a 1995 graduate of the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State University, where he was a member of the Order of the Coif and a Member of the Louisiana Law Review. Following his graduation, he was inducted into the Paul M. Hebert Law Center Hall of Fame. Mr. Benson formerly practiced with the principles of our firm in the firm of Cook, Yancey, King & Galloway.
January, 2009 Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren and John R. Williams listed in Super Lawyers for Louisiana for 2009 in the fields of litigation law, corporate law and taxation law, respectively
Lee H. Ayres, J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. and John R. Williams have been selected for listing in Super Lawyers for 2009. This marks the third consecutive year that both Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. have been selected to be listed by the publication. Lee H. Ayres was recognized in the field of litigation. J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was recognized in the fields of corporate law and tax law. John R. Williams was recognized in the field of tax law.
All aspects of the selection process are performed by Law & Politics, a publication of Key Professional Media, Inc. Law & Politics reports that, in selecting attorneys for Super Lawyers, it "employs a rigorous, multiphase process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Law & Politics prides itself on the strict editorial standards it employs during the rigorous selection process."
Lawyers are evaluated on 12 main indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement: Verdicts and settlements, Transactions, Representative clients, Experience, Honors and awards, Special licenses and certifications, Position within law firm, Bar and/or other professional activity, Pro bono and community service, Scholarly lectures and writings, Education and employment background, and other outstanding achievements.
Learn more at www.superlawyers.com/index.html
December 15, 2008 Tulane Law School student Sarah E. Smith accepts position with Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
The Firm proudly announces that Sarah E. Smith has accepted a position with the firm. Sarah will begin her practice of law with the firm in August, 2009.
October 23, 2008 Defense Research Institute names Lee Ayres as Outstanding State Representative of the Year
In October 2008, the Defense Research Institute (DRI) named Lee Ayres as Outstanding State Representative of the Year during its annual meeting.
The Defense Research Institute is the international organization of attorneys defending the interests of business and individuals in civil litigation. Its goal is to enhance the "skills, effectiveness, and professionalism of defense lawyers" while "improving the civil justice system and preserving the civil jury."
Learn more about DRI at www.dri.org/Home.aspx
October 15, 2008 Willard E. (Robby) Robertson joins Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams; Firm Size Doubles since February, 2008, opening
The firm proudly announces that Willard E. (Robby) Robertson has joined the firm in its commercial practice. Mr. Robertson is a Shreveport native, having graduated from Jesuit High School. Mr. Roberston continued his education at Southern Methodist University and then obtained a B.S. in Business Administration and Finance from the University of New Orleans. Mr. Robertson obtained his juris doctorate degree from Tulane University School of Law in 1995.
The Firm opened in February, 2008, with four attorneys and has now expanded to eight lawyers.
September 26, 2008 New Orleans, Louisiana: Lee Ayres named Chairman of Insurance Law Program
We are proud to announce that Lee Ayres has been named as the Chairman of the Insurance Law Program to be presented by the Louisiana State Bar Association in New Orleans, Louisiana.
September 12, 2008 Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams Enters Long-Term Lease/Continues Pursuit of Expansion
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams has entered into a 20-year lease of its 14th floor offices in Regions Tower and has expanded those offices by an additional 3,000 square feet. As stated by Manager John Williams: "The substantial growth of our clients' business has brought us nearly to double our resources in our first six months of operations, and we are continuing to recruit and hire additional attorneys. Considering our clients' needs, we felt compelled to assure that we have ample office space to continue providing the service that has fueled our joint success." Currently architectural design work is underway for the remodeling of an expansion of the firm's office.
August 14, 2008 Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams Employees Receive Loyalty Award
Celebrating 180 days since its opening, Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams held a special luncheon at the Petroleum Club for its employees, at which employees were given an unexpected loyalty award. "We value our our employees, and we appreciate the loyalty which they have demonstrated by joining our firm at the time that it was initially formed or shortly thereafter", said Ben Warren. He added: "We know people changed their careers and their lives to support us; we hold loyalty as one of our highest values."
August 2008 Lee Ayres served as faculty member of Louisiana State University Law School's Trial Advocacy Training Program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
As a faculty member of the Louisiana State University Law School's Trial Advocacy Training Program, Mr. Ayres helped to enrich the education of senior law students by assisting them with their litigation skills.
This three day NITA-styled program incorporates knowledge of trial tactics and procedure with experience in mock trial exercises and hands-on critiques. The faculty is composed of experienced and accomplished judges and attorneys from across the country.
June 18, 2008 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named as Board Member of the Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
The Tax Law Advisory Commission of the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization oversees and implements the requirements relating to the Tax Law Specialization under the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization of the Louisiana State Bar Association. This includes continuing legal education, requirements for certification as a Board Certified Tax Law Specialist and examination functions.
May 15, 2008 Karen P. Thomason to join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams
We are pleased to announce that Karen P. Thomason will be joining the firm on May 15th. Ms. Thomason is well known to lawyers practicing in northwest Louisiana having previously practiced in Shreveport, Louisiana. Ms. Thomason will further the firm's goals of responsive and reliable client service.
Ms. Thomason received her undergraduate degree in 1984 in Speech Language Therapy from Louisiana Tech University where she graduated summa cum laude. Ms. Thomason obtained a masters degree in 1985 in Speech Language Pathology from Louisiana Tech University where she also pursued graduate studies in audiology from 1990 to 1991. Ms. Thomason obtained her law degree from Louisiana State University an d was admitted to practice in 1997.
Ms. Thomason's work experience includes employment as an attorney with Cook, Yancey, King and Galloway, Shreveport, Louisiana, Brice, Vander Linden & Wernick, Dallas, Texas, Davis Munck, Dallas, Texas and the position of Director, Compliance & Development with Rehab Pro, L.P. Ms. Thomason is certified in Basic Mediation and Family Mediation and has served as a mediator with Dispute Resolution Services of Ft. Worth, Texas.
Ms. Thomason represents financial institutions and lenders in creditor's rights and collections generally and in protection of creditor's rights in bankruptcy. Ms. Thomason also handles business transactions and litigation matters.
Ms. Thomason is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and has been admitted to practice in the Louisiana state courts, the United States district and bankruptcy courts for the Eastern, Western and Middle Districts of Louisiana and the United States district and bankruptcy courts for the Northern, Eastern and Southern Districts of Texas.
March 26-28, 2008 Las Vegas, Nevada: Lee Ayres to speak at DRI Damages Seminar
Lee Ayres joins a panel of other nationally known speakers at the Defense Research Institute's Damages Seminar and will speak on the topic "The Effective Use of the Media to Minimize Damages". Mr. Ayres will address why, in certain cases, lawyers and clients need to devote the same level of commitment, strategic planning and attention to detail with regard to their media relations as they do their typical preparation for trial. The development of a media relations plan to minimize damages, the ethics of media relations and good habits in any lawyer's relationship with the media will be addressed.
March 18, 2008 Mark E. Posey to join Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, L.L.C. is excited that Mark E. Posey will join the firm as an associate beginning March 18, 2008. Mr. Posey is admitted in Louisiana and Texas, and his addition further augments the firm's practices in Louisiana and Texas. Mr. Posey brings extensive litigation experience to the firm in both states.
February 18, 2008 Jason W. Poe joins Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, LLC
Ayres, Warren, Shelton & Williams, L.L.C. is pleased to announce the addition of Jason W. Poe as an associate with the firm. Mr. Poe is presently admitted in Texas, and brings the number of attorneys in the firm admitted to practice in Texas to three, strengthening the firm's ability to serve its clients in east Texas.
February 1, 2008 Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. to be listed in Super Lawyers
Lee H. Ayres and J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. will be listed in Super Lawyers for the second consecutive year. Mr. Ayres' practice includes civil litigation, including tort, personal injury, property damage, insurance defense, insurance bad faith and insurance fraud, death and disability claims, products liability, premises liability, professional errors and omissions liability and breach of contract matters. Mr. Warren's practice focuses primarily on transactions and federal and state taxation, with an emphasis in the corporate, partnership and planning areas.
January 2008 J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. was named to the Examination Committee for the 2009 Tax Specialization Exam for the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization
J. Benjamin Warren, Jr. has served on the Examination Committee for the Tax Law Advisory Commission to the Louisiana Board of the Legal Specialization from 1998 to present. His responsibilities during this time have included drafting questions for the Tax Specialization Exam and participating in the grading of the examinations.
