Rita works primarily in the area of general litigation, with an emphasis on environmental and insurance coverage issues. Her varied environmental experience includes advising clients on matters arising under the Endangered Species Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act and the SC Pollution Control Act. She assists clients in investigating and responding to matters such as permitting challenges, requests for information and enforcement actions before administrative agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Rita has taught Administrative Law at Clemson University and Environmental Law at Furman University. Rita advises clients on assessing environmental risks and incentives associated with corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and real estate deals. Rita’s extensive experience in the area of insurance coverage includes assisting clients in assessing adequacy of coverage, filing claims, and securing coverage for defense and indemnification costs. Rita is also a member of the firm’s architectural copyright infringement litigation team, and she chairs the firm’s Recruiting Committee.