Charleston, W.Va. — Spilman Thomas & Battle (Spilman) announced that attorneys Niall A. Paul and James S. Crockett, Jr. gave a captivating keynote address to attendees of the International Association of Defense Counsel’s (IADC) Midyear Meeting during the prestigious Foundation Forum.

Their dynamic presentation delved into the extraordinary details of a case that Spilman litigated on behalf of a client, opposing a scion of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) and the Aryan Nation in a high-stakes legal battle that tested not only legal strategy but also moral conviction.

“The IADC is one of the most respected legal organizations in the world, and having Niall and Jim deliver the Foundation Forum keynote address is a true honor,” said Michael J. Basile, Spilman’s Managing Member. “Their work in this matter represents the best of what Spilman stands for—courage, dedication to justice, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.”

The case began as a workplace dispute over a corporate policy prohibiting disruptive and distracting symbols—in this instance, the Confederate flag. However, it quickly escalated with broader civil rights implications as the plaintiffs received legal backing from a firm specifically created to represent the interests of organizations like the KKK and the Aryan Nation.

Paul and Crockett addressed the legal strategy of the case, the challenges of facing scare tactics and a hate-fueled campaign, and the ultimate triumph of justice.

“This case was not only about defending a client’s policy, but also about upholding the rule of law,” said Paul.

Crockett added, “This matter changed how we approached the practice of law. It was a reminder that the law is not just a profession—it’s a calling.”

Paul reflected on the case’s broader impact, stating, “Some cases provide the rare opportunity to achieve something bigger than a win in the courtroom—something that resonates with our communities. This was one of those cases.”

He also emphasized a key takeaway for legal professionals: “Understanding who is funding litigation is crucial. In this instance, the plaintiffs were backed by a hate group. Knowing that allowed us to tailor our strategy effectively and ensure justice.”

Paul also noted, “While the case could be viewed as good versus evil, you cannot win a case that way, so we prevailed by honoring truth versus falsity at every turn and with every action.”

Both Paul and Crockett have been an integral part of Spilman for decades, dedicating their careers to litigation and earning national recognition for their legal prowess.

Paul was one of four lawyers in the nation on this client’s litigation strike force and was asked to lead this case in the former Confederate Capital of Richmond, Virginia. Paul had previously formed – and still leads – Spilman’s Battle Group, created for the express purpose of handling complex cases like this one that bring not only a high-stakes trial, but also media spotlight and other pressures.

The Battle Group approach is to create efficient teams from an array of focused and experienced professionals to attack a case while providing extraordinary value. These teams advise clients on civil and criminal litigation and trial strategy, market impact, media relations, and relevant governmental and regulatory processes—every related area of consequence to the business.

The IADC Foundation Forum is renowned for featuring thought leaders and legal innovators who inspire and inform the international legal community. Prior speakers include international heads of state and Supreme Court Justices. The inclusion of Paul and Crockett underscores the respect they share in the legal community and Spilman’s reputation as a firm capable of handling the challenging and consequential cases of today.

About Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC
Spilman Thomas & Battle is a full-service, super-regional law firm serving local, regional, national, and international businesses. Founded in 1864, Spilman has offices in Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Wheeling, West Virginia; Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Roanoke, Virginia; and St. Augustine, Florida.