After consulting several attorneys, I selected Michelle to represent me in the negotiation/preparation of a prenuptial agreement. She did an excellent job navigating a complex negotiation and came up with several creative solutions to get us to the finish line. I would definitely recommend her services to anyone looking for an expert in family law.
Amazing, compassionate, dedicated, great communication
I was in a very hard place as a single mom in graduate school and needed a good lawyer. I reached out to Michelle here on Avvo after hearing about her in one of my moms groups. When I reached out it was on a Sunday and she got right back to me. Michelle went above and beyond in doing everything she could for myself and my daughter while I was in a very hard and emotional situation with my daughters biological dad. She didn't overcharge and nickel and dime me at every moment. Michelle is very direct, forward and upfront and truly wants the best for her clients. She fights for her clients while still remaining compassionate and understanding. I will be forever grateful for her work on my case. If you want a lawyer that communicates well, is no BS and doesn't overcharge, Michelle is your woman. Thank you Michelle for everything!!!
As a "Maryland Super Lawyer" with more than 25 years as a practicing litigator, Ms. Smith has the skills to help clients obtain their goals. Ms. Smith has extensive litigation experience handling court and jury trials in nearly every type of case from complex homicides to contentious divorce and custody matters. As a felony prosecutor in Anne Arundel County for 20+ years, Ms. Smith specialized in Famlily and Domestic Violence cases and developed a uniquely successful approach to litigation which combines legal knowledge, good judgment, negotiation skills and compassion.
Ms. Smith focuses her practice exclusively on Family Law, representing clients in a wide range of counties in Maryland for cases involving, divorce, custody, child support and protective orders. Ms. Smith appreciates the complex emotional and logistical stressors that come with such cases, and is able to provide sound legal advise and persuasive advocacy on behalf of her clients when they most need a strong voice. Ms. Smith understands the need for a balanced and compassionate approach to address the needs of her clients in these emotional circumstances. She works diligently to assist clients in attaining their goals outside of litigation through well drafted agreements and orders; however, if litigation is required, she brings her extensive experience and skills to present a well-prepared and persuasive case.
Ms. Smith is a member of the Maryland State Bar Association Family and Juvenile Law Section Council which directs Family Law policies and practices statewide and, as Co-Chair of the legislative subcommittee, she regularly testifies on behalf of the Council before the House and Senate of the Maryland General Assembly on bills related to Family law. Ms. Smith is an Adjunct Professor for the . Certificate Program at the Univeristy of Baltimore Law School. Ms. Smith has received numerous awards recognizing her work in Family and Domestic Violence, including being honored by two Maryland Governors with Citations for outstanding service to Maryland Crime Victims. Ms. Smith was selected as a Maryland Super Lawyer in 2022 and is also listed in Martindale-Hubble's Bar Register of Pre-Eminent Lawyers, among the select lawyers who have earned the AV peer review Highest Possible Rating in both Legal Ability & Ethical Standards as well as the Judicial Edition.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family Law Expert
After consulting several attorneys, I selected Michelle to represent me in the negotiation/preparation of a prenuptial agreement. She did an excellent job navigating a complex negotiation and came up with several creative solutions to get us to the finish line. I would definitely recommend her services to anyone looking for an expert in family law.
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Posted by Alexis | May 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing, compassionate, dedicated, great communication
I was in a very hard place as a single mom in graduate school and needed a good lawyer. I reached out to Michelle here on Avvo after hearing about her in one of my moms groups. When I reached out it was on a Sunday and she got right back to me. Michelle went above and beyond in doing everything she could for myself and my daughter while I was in a very hard and emotional situation with my daughters biological dad. She didn't overcharge and nickel and dime me at every moment. Michelle is very direct, forward and upfront and truly wants the best for her clients. She fights for her clients while still remaining compassionate and understanding. I will be forever grateful for her work on my case. If you want a lawyer that communicates well, is no BS and doesn't overcharge, Michelle is your woman. Thank you Michelle for everything!!!
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Posted by anonymous | April 11, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Complicated divorce, and she got the results I wanted
My divorce was an unusual case, and I was very glad I had a really seasoned attorney working me through it. We ended up in court, and she took me through all those steps. She is expensive, but the result was very worth it. I tend to be a penny pincher, so the cost was hard to swallow during the process, given the uncertain outcome. Glad I didn't choose to save a few bucks and go with a less-experienced lawyer.
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Posted by LeeAn | April 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Solid Guidance and Support
After years of attempting to advocate for myself in the legal system on a divorce/child support I by chance was recommended to speak with Michelle Smith. Michelle Smith helped me settle and move forward in a concise no nonsense manner. Her guidance has helped me in so many ways. My only regret is that I did not start the divorce process with her. I know my outcome would have been even better. She helped me clean up from where I was and get an acceptable outcome. Thank you very much Michelle Smith.
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Posted by Angus | April 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Her experience was the key
I was lucky to find Michelle Smith to represent me in my first and only criminal case. It was complex and time was short. She grasped the intricacies quickly, gave a sobering assessment of the dangers, and read the room well when we got to court. An inexperienced prosecutor erred in her presentation, as my attorney thought she might. Ms. Smith pounced and we won a quick acquittal.
The law is not always fair. I was glad to have an experienced former prosecutor with a keen understanding of the workings of the court to sort it out before the judge.
Angus Phillips
Annapolis MD
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Posted by Monique | August 1, 2022
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| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
Michelle handled my case for several months during COVID. She was always available and responded quickly. The counsel she provided helped me resolve my issues without seeing the inside of a court with an end result that was beneficial for my children which was the ultimate goal. I would definitely use Michelle again if needed.
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Posted by Karen | April 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Decision I Made was Hiring Michelle
I was on the fence about needing a lawyer for my divorce. Michelle met with me and talked me through details I would have never known to consider if I tried this on my own. After she was hired she immediately began to protect myself and my kids from short term and long term issues. She continuously kept me updated, and her extensive organization and communication helped keep my case moving, and allowed me to file for divorce quickly and effectively. Her ability to write in special circumstances which aid myself and my kids was amazing and added extra layers to protect us.
Along with keeping my kids as the priority, Michelle negotiated financial gains in my favor, allowing me to walk away without splitting earnings on my property. If getting divorced has a winner / loser, I walked away feeling in control of my life and like I won the battle.
Michelle is a long term investment, and worth every penny. I still know I can call and ask questions as things come up. She still responds to phone calls, texts, and emails and answers all my questions.
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Posted by KB | April 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michelle is ready to work
I had a very specific timeline for my proceeding and Michelle worked hard and diligently to get me where I wanted to be. I recommend her and her firm.
Posted by Julie | March 31, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very helpful and flexible
Mrs. Smith helped me with my prenuptial agreement and was very clear and straight-to-the-point. She was very helpful with her advice and efficient with both of our time.
Posted by anonymous | February 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Savior
I went through 4 attorneys over 9 years of hell before Michelle came in & got me more than I could have dreamed of, in a months time. She is a dream come true! Definitely hire her! She sees her clients as a person, she has heart, about the facts… & she listens but most importantly she’s professional. Pray I never need her again lol but if your looking for the right person Michelle is it! God bless her & you too!
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Posted by Fronia | December 16, 2021
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| Hired Attorney
Simply The Best
My past experiences with lawyers have been poor. When I began the search for a child custody lawyer for my adult daughter, there was much trepidation. Her son’s father lives out of state which complicates parenting time more than normal.
Little did I know that Michelle Smith would restore my faith in the integrity of our judicial system. My daughter and I are ecstatic that Michelle was able to win every single thing she asked for in the custody agreement. Equally as important were her wins in knowledge, compassion, responsiveness, professionalism, straightforwardness, and honesty. Her first priority was the best interest of my grandson when he visits his father and the father’s financial accountability.
I highly recommend her.
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Posted by anonymous | December 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent representation and dedicated ear
Michelle Smith is incredible. She listens to your concerns, sees all the potential issues and guides you through them thoughtfully with wisdom and experience. Correspondence and communication is clear, and she works to get you your favored outcome. She represented me through a divorce and custody and it was extremely expeditious.
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Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Easy to Work with -
Michelle was a true professional in handling my divorce. She knows Maryland Law and was able to help me in settling the matter. There were no details too small that she looked at and considered for mine and my children's future. In addition to her professionalism, she was very empathetic to my situation and helped me through it. I couldn't recommend Michelle more!
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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedicated Attorney
By far the best experience I have had yet. Michelle Smith is a top attorney. I'm not sure I can say enough about her. She led me through one of toughest battles of my life. I am so thankful for her and her firm's hard work on my case. Michelle was such an inspiration to me. This is who you want in your corner. I highly recommend Michelle Smith.
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Posted by ANTHONY | March 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Making the Best of a Bad Situation!!!
I retained Michelle at the advice of a friend who used her services for her divorce. I called Michelle on a Sunday afternoon and left a message and she returned my call within 30 minutes. That simple display of customer attention confirmed that she would be my lawyer moving forward. Michelle and her staff made a very traumatic event in my life unfold smoothly with little to no stress. Her efforts on my behalf were astounding and she kept me informed throughout the entire process. If your seeking legal representation to settle a divorce, then look no further.
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Posted by Andrew | March 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
More than excellent service [more stars needed]
Michelle Smith is an amazing lawyer. She is very knowledgeable and competent. She helped me with multiple cases over a couple years time. I know she was looking out for my best interest every step of the way never letting me down. Michelle made herself available to answer any questions or concerns I had at any time day or night. I could not have asked for a better professional service. I feel like Michelle loves her job and was willing to work very hard to help me with any problems that I had even when It was something she didn't have to do, she went above and beyond what I expected. My family and I are very thankful and could not be happier with her service as well as the outcome of our our cases.
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Posted by Brittany | March 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best family lawyer EVER!!!
I have been working with Michelle for about 4 years now with family and custody issues. Anytime I have a problem Michelle has been there to help get things straightened out. She is very responsive to emails and calls. She knows the legal system inside and out. She has never given me bad advice. She has been more than prepared for every court date we have had together and I have never lost a legal hearing with her on my team. A million thanks to Michelle and her legal team!!!!!
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Posted by Michael | March 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Yes, Michelle and her team are really "That Good"
After a thorough research of divorce attorneys in the Annapolis area, I decided to retain Michelle to handle my case. As stated in the other reviews, she is incredibly knowledgeable, compassionate, and communicative. She was invaluable in helping me thru the divorce proceedings, and I would highly recommend her to anyone.
Posted by anonymous | September 16, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
PHENOMENAL! Complex Custody 9 hours away!
I hired Michelle to represent me in a complex custody battle where I moved out of state with my son. Michelle was amazing! Words cant even begin to describe how grateful I am that I hired her and for all her help. This was the most stressful time of my life and I wouldn't have been able to get through it without her help and guidance/representation. The calamity that I felt on a daily bases was always put to ease after talking with her on our approach. She always knew exactly what to do and what our next steps were. Not only did she get me everything I asked for and achieved every single one of my goals, she also had this case closed and resolved within 3 months of me being served and hiring her! She was stern and to the point whenever advocating for me. I know in my heart no one else would have been able to get me the resolution that I deserved as a mom. She always had my son and I best interest when navigating through this process. She was professional, caring, smart, passionate and never once steered me wrong. I was never neglected when trying to reach her, which is important when you're in the mist of panicking over a situation. She had my defense and protection, took my case under her care and ran with it. I thank God everyday that I choose to hired her for representing me. Everything was always organized and laid out which took so much unnecessary stress off me. I put my sons living situation in her hands and trusted her without a doubt. Side note, Paul was amazing. Every time I called he knew who I was and it was very personable and welcoming. He had a very sincere calming way about him. The efficency that was proven from Michelle and this office is rare to find. I cant say thank you enough!
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Posted by anonymous | September 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Father gains primary custody, ends in out-of-court settlement
Michelle made all the right moves, and we now have primary custody of and final decision authority for my daughter.
After receiving Michelle's name and firm through two different and unrelated recommendations, we decided to switch lawyers in the middle of what had become a long and drawn out situation in court over child support and custody issues with my daughter.
Due to the nature of the evolving issues in our case, there were multiple motions filed, starting simply with legally required child support changes, then complicated and complex out-of-state jurisdiction issues, and finally culminating in a motion for a change of custody. Every step along the way, Michelle was thoughtful with our situation, confident in her decisions, and swift with her actions.
Michelle spent the time required to know our case. When it was argued that this case should move out of Maryland, she fought for the case to remain here, despite our child residing out of the state full time with her other parent. She won jurisdiction for us.
Then, when we needed to know how to thoughtfully and carefully bring in the opinion of our daughter, she provided the evidence appropriate to have the court appoint a best interest attorney for our child. This made all the difference - and Michelle's expertise was invaluable.
Michelle's follow-on actions over a period of months resulted in us receiving a settlement offer out of court, granting us primary custody. This was the most valuable of all - as our daughter was able to hear that her parents had agreed that the best place for her to be was with us, where she wanted to be.
Michelle's involvement in this sensitive issue has forever impacted our lives for the better. She was an answered prayer, a blessing, and we are forever grateful for her efforts.
Choosing a lawyer to handle a child custody case over internet reviews is not easy. We would absolutely recommend Michelle to anyone dealing with this most important issue.
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Family Attorney | Aug 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known and worked with and against Michelle since she became a member of the States Attorneys Office many decades ago. After being elevated to the supervising attorney in the District Court, a position she held for many years, Michelle ventured out into private practice about ten years ago. Since she elected to specialize in family law, which was also my speciality, I have observed what can only be characterized as a meteoric rise to the top of the heap of attorneys who are involved in practicing family law. She is exceptionally well prepared; she cares about her clients; she is a tireless worker; she is exceptionally bright and intuitive; and she is tough and resolute in making certain that her clients get the best representation possible. I consider Michelle to be one of the top family lawyers in our county. Anyone looking for a family law attorney need would be well served by her."
Family Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"After having worked with Michelle in the past and seen how she handles cases, I can confidently say that Michelle is a worthy opponent and a fierce advocate for her clients. At the same time, she is practical, and does not create conflict if not necessary. I would not hesitate in referring a case to her."