Founder, Shareholder, Partner
CurrentMichael J. Smith is a partner/shareholder/founder of the firm (founded in 2012). With extensive experience in various types of complex commercial litigation, a significant part of his practice includes counseling and representing clients regarding complex insurance coverage issues and disputes (at both the primary and umbrella/excess levels), including those arising out of underlying mass tort claims, bad faith/extra-contractual claims, directors & officers claims, professional liability/errors and omissions, advertising injury, construction defect, and property claims. Mike has extensive litigation and trial experience in both state and federal courts throughout the country, and is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Connecticut and Washington, D.C., as well as before the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Middle Districts of Pennsylvania, the District of New Jersey, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit. He has also been admitted, pro hac vice, to various courts throughout the country, and has handled matters in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington state, and West Virginia.Mike is frequently designated by clients and co-parties as lead counsel for purposes of arguing pre-trial motions and handling trial matters. His responsibilities include developing case strategies to ensure cost-effective outcomes, handling all aspects of discovery and motion practice, pretrial and trial practice, as well as conducting effective case negotiations (including, where appropriate, Alternative Dispute Resolution). He also advises clients regarding preventative measures and provides training to avoid or minimize liability exposure.Mike has been voted a Pennsylvania “Super Lawyer” by his bar association peers. Overall, overall, only 5 percent of lawyers are named to the list.
