Raleigh, N.C. (August 21, 2025) – Smith Debnam is pleased to share that five of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America. This recognition is reserved for attorneys early in their legal careers who exhibit outstanding professional excellence.
The attorneys selected for inclusion and their areas of recognition are:
- Tiffani Atamas – Family Law
- Rachel E. Rogers – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
- Melissa Tulis-Smith – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
- Landon Van Winkle – Appellate Practice; Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law; Litigation – Bankruptcy
- Lucas S. Fautua – Commercial Litigation; Litigation – Bankruptcy; Litigation – Real Estate
The Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America recognition is based entirely on peer review and highlights attorneys who are making strong contributions to the legal profession early in their careers.
“We’re proud to see these dedicated attorneys acknowledged for their work,” said Jerry T. Myers, Smith Debnam Managing Partner. “Each embodies our firm’s values and is making a meaningful impact in their respective practice areas.”
About Smith Debnam
For over five decades, Smith Debnam has been at the forefront of legal excellence, serving as a trusted advisor to institutions and individuals across a wide range of industries. Their team of accomplished legal professionals combines experience, compassion, and a commitment to responsible representation. With headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina, and regional offices in Charlotte, North Carolina and Charleston, South Carolina, Smith Debnam is strategically positioned to provide comprehensive legal services throughout the region. Their extensive experience in state and federal courts allows the firm to navigate diverse practice areas, including Creditors’ Rights, Litigation, Transactional and Advisory Services, Divorce and Family Law, and Personal Representation.
