WASHINGTON and HOUSTON — September 18, 2024
Key takeaways
- Micah Smith and Emily Mott have joined BakerHostetler as counsel in the firm’s nationwide Litigation Practice Group and as members of the Catastrophic Accident Response and OSHA Defense teams. Smith is based in the firm’s Washington, D.C., office and Mott is based in Houston.
- With more than 25 years of combined experience, Smith and Mott bring a wealth of knowledge in managing complex safety and health matters, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in crisis management and regulatory compliance.
- Smith and Mott are the latest additions to the firm’s Catastrophic Accident Response team, which welcomed the arrival of partner Greg Dillard to lead the team in May.
Why this matters
The addition of Smith and Mott to the firm’s Catastrophic Accident Response team ensures continuity to existing clients and the broader team, as they have worked closely with Dillard for years. Their combined experience in managing investigations, EHS compliance and crisis management will significantly enhance the firm’s ability to support clients in navigating complex safety and legal challenges.
Key quote
“We are thrilled to have Micah and Emily join our national Catastrophic Accident Response team,” said Ray Whitman, chair of the firm’s Litigation Practice Group. “Clients rely on their support and guidance around the clock, entrusting them with high-stakes matters in their most challenging moments. Their ability to navigate crises with precision and confidence will elevate the exceptional service our firm is known for.”
About Smith’s practice
As a trusted advisor for safety, health and incident response matters, Smith excels in his ability to navigate complex safety standards, providing immediate support and legal guidance for clients following major incidents. With a focus on OSHA and process safety matters, Smith has represented companies of all sizes in various industries, particularly petroleum refineries and chemical manufacturers. He often manages investigations by agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Chemical Safety Board (CSB), conducting internal investigations and working with experts to determine likely causes of workplace accidents. Smith routinely provides on-site tactical support to clients and analyzes compliance with various environmental and safety regulations and standards.
Smith received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Ouachita Baptist University and his Juris Doctor degree from Vanderbilt University School of Law.
About Mott’s practice
Mott focuses her practice on crisis management and response across various industries, including oil and gas, energy, chemical, manufacturing and transportation. She provides immediate support and counsel during major accidents, managing regulatory and legal obligations and defending against enforcement and litigation. With a strong background in internal and agency investigations, Mott helps companies foresee and prevent future liabilities. Mott also has extensive experience in analyzing compliance with environmental and safety regulations, managing on-site agency inspections and advising on workplace health and safety issues.
Mott received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Baylor University and her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Houston Law Center.
Key quote
“Bringing Micah and Emily on board highlights BakerHostetler’s unwavering commitment to delivering unmatched legal support when it matters most,” said Dillard, leader of both the firm’s Catastrophic Accident Response and OSHA Defense teams. “Their leadership and dedication to client service will be invaluable as we continue to expand our capabilities in catastrophic accident response.”
With more than 400 litigators in offices coast to coast, BakerHostetler’s Litigation Practice Group represents market-leading clients in virtually every type of case and proceeding, nationally and around the world. The group’s roster of litigators includes former prosecutors, veteran civil trial lawyers and former enforcement officials from various government agencies. Recognized as a “go-to law firm” for its deep bench, commitment to client needs and tenacity, and named by BTI as “Most Feared in Litigation,” BakerHostetler’s Litigation Practice Group successfully protects clients in and out of the courtroom. For more information visit: https://bakerlawstaging.contentpilot.net/Litigation. Connect with us on the social platform X at @BakerHostetler or on LinkedIn at @BakerHostetler, @RayWhitman, @GregDillard, @MicahSmith or @EmilyMott.
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About BakerHostetler
BakerHostetler helps clients around the world address their most complex and critical business and regulatory issues. Our highly ranked attorneys deliver sophisticated counsel and outstanding client service. We have six core practice groups — Business, Digital Assets and Data Management, Intellectual Property, Labor and Employment, Litigation, and Tax — and more than 1,000 lawyers coast to coast. For more information, visit bakerlaw.com.