Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP Welcomes Litigation Partner Mitch Ackal, Marking the Firm’s Expansion into the Houston Market

Press Release

January 29, 2026

2026 PR Website Smith, Gambrell & Russell Welcomes Litigation Partner Mitch Ackal, Marking the Firm’s Expansion into the Houston Market (2)

HOUSTON, Texas (January 29, 2026) – Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP (“SGR”) is pleased to announce the arrival of Mitch Ackal as a Partner in the Litigation Practice. Based in Houston, Ackal’s arrival marks the firm’s strategic entry into one of the nation’s most dynamic legal markets and signals significant anticipated growth in the region.

“Mitch’s arrival represents an important milestone for SGR,” said Stephen M. Forte, Chairman and Managing Partner of Smith, Gambrell & Russell. “Houston is a critical market for many of our clients, and Mitch brings the experience, leadership, and market credibility that allow us to establish a meaningful presence there from day one. We view this as the beginning of a long-term and substantial expansion in Texas.”

Mr. Ackal is a seasoned commercial litigator with deep experience representing clients in complex, high-stakes commercial and business disputes, with a particular focus on matters involving the energy industry. His practice includes handling contract disputes, franchise conflicts, and Uniform Commercial Code cases, as well as litigation involving employment matters, trade secrets, restrictive covenants, and product liability. He is known for his practical, business-focused approach to commercial litigation and his ability to advocate effectively for clients facing complex disputes.

Prior to joining SGR, Mr. Ackal practiced at a leading Texas law firm, where he built a reputation as a trusted advocate and adviser in complex commercial litigation. His arrival further strengthens SGR’s nationally recognized Litigation/Trial Practice, adding depth in the Texas market and enhancing the firm’s ability to serve clients facing critical disputes across industries.

“I am excited to join Smith, Gambrell & Russell at a moment of real momentum for the firm,” said Ackal. “SGR’s depth across key industries, its entrepreneurial mindset, and its commitment to thoughtful growth made this a compelling opportunity. I look forward to helping build the firm’s Houston presence and delivering exceptional service to clients throughout Texas and beyond.”

The addition of Mr. Ackal continues SGR’s strategic growth across key domestic and international markets. In recent months, the firm has welcomed several high-profile lateral partners, including the arrival of Patrick Swain in London, further strengthening the firm’s global litigation capabilities and underscoring sustained interest from top-tier talent worldwide.

With more than 200 litigators, Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP’s Litigation/Trial Practice brings bench strength and deep experience to virtually any client dispute. Learn more here: practices/litigation-trial-practice/.

About Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP
Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP is a full-service, international law firm that advises regional, national and global businesses on a wide range of legal matters. The Firm’s more than 400 professionals provide legal counsel in more than 50 specialized practice areas, including corporate transactions, litigation, intellectual property, aviation, banking, real estate, insurance/reinsurance, construction, employment law, international, and employee benefits and executive compensation. Founded in 1893, Smith Gambrell has 15 domestic and international offices, including Atlanta; Austin; Charlotte; Chicago; Houston; Jacksonville; London; Los Angeles; Miami; Milan; Munich; New York; Southampton; Tampa; and Washington, D.C.