Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP held the grand opening reception for its new office in the metro area
of Frankfurt, Germany, at the Carter Center Library in Atlanta the evening of March 2.

Stephen M. Forte, managing partner and chairman of the executive committee of
Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP, opened the reception with an introduction of Stefan Tiessen,
a partner and general manager of the office.

Mr. Tiessen praised the “timing” of the opening, saying that many European firms are looking
to develop business ties in the Southeast U.S., but need the reassurance of working with dual licensed
attorneys familiar with the legal systems and opportunities that exist on both sides of the Atlantic ocean.

Hans-Joerg Brunner, German consul general for the Southeast, congratulated the firm for its
decision to open the office.

Jim Blair, senior manager of business development of the Global Commerce Department at the
Georgia Department of Economic Development, provided an overview of the expansion of
business ties between Europe and Georgia.

Smith Gambrell’s strategy is not to compete with European law firms, but rather to cooperate by
providing U.S. legal representation needed by the region’s international companies.

The office is located at Hagenauer Strasse 53, 65203 in Wiesbaden, Germany.
Mr. Tiessen may be reached by email at stiessen@sgrlaw.com