Leveraging his extensive trial and negotiation skills, Mr. Smith has developed a diverse general practice with expertise in representing clients in criminal matters, unemployment appeals, and DUI/OVI defense. He resides in Huron, Ohio, which enables Smith's Law Offices to easily access resources along the northern coast of Ohio, from Cleveland to Toledo.
Mr. Smith also provides comprehensive legal counsel to labor unions, successfully representing them in contract negotiations, arbitrations, and litigation before federal and state courts, the National Labor Relations Board, the Ohio State Employment Relations Board, and the Department of Labor. Additionally, he assists clients in proactively avoiding litigation through thorough compliance planning and advice.
Brian J. Smith is a member of the:
Mr. Smith is admitted to practice in the State of Ohio, the United States District Court for the Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
Brian J. Smith graduated from Kent State University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. His exceptional LSAT scores earned him full-tuition scholarships to every law school he applied to, ultimately leading him to the University of Akron School of Law. He graduated summa cum laude in 2005, serving as both an assistant and associate editor of the Law Review, and published an article that same year.
Mr. Smith excelled in his legal studies, receiving the Ernest Karam Award of Academic Excellence, the Federal Bar Association Constitutional Law Award, and multiple Excellence for the Future Awards. After graduating and scoring in the top percentile on the Bar Exam, he served as an instructor at the University of Akron, preparing law students for the rigors of legal research, writing, and oral arguments. He also joined a dynamic and successful law firm immediately after graduation.
Committed to ongoing professional development, Mr. Smith consistently exceeds the continuing legal education requirements mandated by the Ohio Supreme Court. He has also completed the same NHTSA SFST and ARIDE courses that police officers undergo, demonstrating his commitment to a comprehensive understanding of DUI law.
When Brian steps away from his legal career, he cherishes his time as a father to three active and growing children/young adults. He is a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Huron and a frequent visitor to the Sorrowful Mother Shrine in Bellevue. Brian enjoys exploring the outdoors through cycling, camping, hiking, backpacking, photography and fishing. He also keeps his Vizsla mix rescue dog, Duke, happy with many games of fetch.
