Issue 3 2020

Acquisition International - Issue 3 2020 29 Dec19004 Company: Phelps Dunbar LLP Contact: Chris Ralston Website: www.phelps.com ith a workforce of more than three hundred exceptional lawyers working in litigation, labor and employment, business, admiralty, insurance coverage, and healthcare, it can be hard to stand out. Such is the skill and legal prowess of Chris Ralston, based out of the New Orleans office of Phelps Dunbar. Chris is a commercial litigation partner and practice coordinator for the Litigation branch of the firm, specializing in antitrust and competition litigation. However, Chris’ recognition in Acquisition International is about far more than his legal talent. He also embodies the tireless work ethic of Phelps Dunbar, going above and beyond in his servitude towards every single client and person he interacts with on a daily basis. Phelps Dunbar’s philosophy encourages every lawyer within the firm, including Chris, to spend time with clients off the clock, absorbing and learning everything about them and their business. From strategic goals to challenging operational issues, the firm will ask questions to know not only what their current state of business is, but how it should be. By establishing such a strong connection between lawyer and client, availability is a highly advantageous service that Phelps Dunbar offers to their clients. Ultimately, anything can make a difference in a business-critical deal or lawsuit, and both the firm and Chris will address whatever that might be. Throughout his career at Phelps Dunbar, Chris has represented companies of all shapes and sizes in antitrust suits, trade secret litigation, and competition disputes. His specialization in these areas has enabled him to work on the enforcement of licensing agreements, noncompete covenants and non-solicitation agreements, as well as trade secret protection laws and agreements in both state and federal courts. From international tool manufacturers and insurance companies, to healthcare organizations to direct selling companies, Chris has been diligent and relentless in his pursuit, defense, and achievement of a wide variety of remedies and relief for his clients. Chris enjoys the challenge of standing before a court to advocate for his clients, but revels in the phone call afterwards to tell his clients the good news about a successful verdict. As a former W The South of the United States is home to many companies whose business requires the legal help of the finest minds that the country has to offer. With offices strategically placed on the Gulf Coast between Houston and Tampa, Phelps Dunbar is the top choice for businesses in need of legal counsel. The firm is also home to Louisana’s Leading Anti-Trust and Competition Litigation Attorney of the Year, Chris Ralston, who we profile following his win in Acquisition International magazine. Leading Louisiana Lawyer businessowner himself, Chris can also relate to his clients in ways that other lawyers simply cannot. His understanding of business means his advice on commercial litigation matters comes from a place of personal understanding. Chris’ perspective goes beyond the case itself to encompass the business as a whole. Instead of focusing solely on how an issue might affect a case individually, he takes into consideration the future of the company and the bigger picture. That connection between Chris and his clients is invaluable, and can make that phone call to share the good news even more meaningful for both parties. Another substantial aspect of Chris’ legal excellence lies in his appellate representation. During his time with Phelps Dunbar, Chris has successfully handled appeals at each of the five Louisiana Circuit Courts of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Louisiana, the Fifth Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. As well as being a key part of the firm’s appellate practice, Chris serves in a range of leadership roles within Phelps Dunbar, including being on the ethics and pro bono committees. Outside of the courtroom, Chris carries on his excellence by being involved with several professional and civic organizations, including New Orleans Bar Association, The Pro Bono Project, and the Louisiana Bar Foundation, where he has served as president, board chair, and vice-president respectively. Helping educate the next generation of lawyers as well, Chris has guest lectured for several bar associations, presenting on topics such as social media, data breaches, cybersecurity, and trade secret litigation to judicial colleges, in-house counsel groups, and private practitioners. Chris is an outstanding example of more than just an exceptional lawyer. His desire to connect with clients on a personal level can lead to lives being changed when a positive verdict comes through. Fortunately, thanks to his legal talent, those moments are plentiful and Chris represents the best of what Phelps Dunbar stands for across the South of the United States. “Ultimately, anything can make a difference in a business-critical deal or lawsuit, and both the firm and Chris will address whatever that might be.”