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H. Van Smith

also known as Horace Van Smith, Van Smith
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H. Van Smith
H. Van Smith
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About H.

Trusted Divorce, Custody & Estate Planning Attorney from Richmond to Williamsburg, Virginia

 

H. Van Smith practices family law and estate planning from his Virginia offices in both the Richmond metropolitan area and Williamsburg.

 

He is the sole owner of SMITH STRONG, PLC and a member of the family law sections of the Virginia State Bar, the American Bar Association, and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. 

 

Van has been featured several times in the Richmond Times Dispatch, Virginia Gazette, Daily Press, WRVA 1140AM, William & Mary News and UVA Today; he welcomes the opportunity to educate his community on divorce, custody, and family law issues in Virginia.

 

In 2013, the Virginia legal community welcomed Van Smith’s first book in the Legal Strength Series:  The Ultimate Guide to Divorce and Custody in Virginia: Quickly Get Back to Fully Living Your Life.

 

And Van was honored in 2013 with Avvo's Client Satisfaction Award for Family Law.

 

In 2014, the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys awarded Van the prestigious Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in Virginia, under the age of 40.

 

Also in 2014, Van was nominated as one of the "10 Best Under 40" Attorneys for the State of Virginia, as determined by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.

 

Van’s practice focuses on family law matters, including divorce, related tax and business issues, custody and support plans, property distribution, integrated solutions for wealth preservation and management post-separation, collaborative law, and civil litigation. 

 

Smith Strong, PLC offers a comprehensive range of family law services from advice and counseling on the most sophisticated and complex business and legal issues to negotiating agreements, mediating disputes, and litigation involving:

 

Premier Family Law, Divorce & Child Custody Representation

  •  Divorce, Matrimonial Law, Family Law
  •  Litigation in Trial Courts
  •  Negotiated Settlements
  •  Collaborative Law
  •  Premarital and Postnuptial Agreements
  •  Marital Settlement Agreements & Separation Agreements
  •  Child Custody, Visitation & Support
  •  Spousal Support & Alimony
  •  Integrated Solutions for Wealth Management & Preservation
  •  Parentage & Paternity Cases
  •  Retirement Plans & Benefits
  •  Property Division and Distribution
  •  Adoption
  •  Business Valuation
  •  Military divorce
  •  Post-Divorce Disputes
  •  Appeals   

      

Juvenile & Domestic Relations-Related Criminal Defense Representation

  • Domestic Violence & Protective Order Hearings
  • Assault & Battery Charges
  • Juvenile Crimes (including several cases to reinstate a student following charges related to the possession, sale, or distribution of alcohol, prescription drugs or narcotics on school property or on public property)

     

Personal, Skilled Representation of Political Consulting Firms, Elected Officials, Public Servants & Professional Athletes

 

  • Discreet Negotiation on Behalf of Individuals and Firms in Crisis Situations
  • Negotiation of Settlement Agreements and Contract Disputes (often with political implications).
  • Civil Litigation, when needed and appropriate.

 

 

Premier Trust & Estate Planning Counsel

 

  • In-office or In-home, personal estate planning
  • Wills, Advanced Medical Directives, Power of Attorney
  • Trust Advisory & Management Services
  • Gift & Wealth Succession Planning
  • Probate & Trust Administration

 

Van resides in central Virginia with his wife Katie and daughter Farah.  He attended William & Mary for undergraduate and law school, where he met his wife while studying in the law library in Williamsburg.

 

Prior to forming Smith Strong, Van worked under highly regarded divorce and family law attorneys in Northern Virginia with the law firm Sevila, Saunders, Huddleston & White; he began his legal career with Williams Mullen in Richmond, Virginia, practicing civil litigation for a wide range of corporate clients. 

 

His experience also includes holding management positions at the University of Virginia Foundation, The College of William & Mary, and abroad with the U.S. Department of Defense, where he was named an Honorary Iraqi Firefighter for his service in the Coalition Provisional Authority throughout Iraq.  

 

Van has addressed groups from a few dozen to several thousand on a variety of topics, from working in a nonprofit serving war-traumatized children in Zenica, Bosnia to rebuilding the fire and ambulance services in Iraq. He has given inspirational messages to elementary and middle school classes as well as at high school graduations and baccalaureate ceremonies, as well as lectures on law and history in Virginia before university audiences and community organizations.

 

He enjoys working to improve his clients’ lives, while also spending time with his family, playing tennis, hiking, cycling, being on the James River, fly fishing, and reading—beginning his day with coffee and a newspaper and ending it with tea and a good book.  

 

Van is licensed to practice law in Virginia, the United States District Court for Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia, and United States Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit.

 

To schedule an interview or private meeting, please call 804.325.1245 or 757.941.4298.

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Languages spoken

Spanish

Photos and videos

1819717 1392730964

1819717 1392730995

Contact

Smith Strong, PLC

5803 Staples Mill Rd.
Richmond, VA, 23228

Website
http://www.smithstrong.com 

    Smith Strong, PLC

    123 Bulifants Boulevard, Suite 1
    Williamsburg, VA, 23188

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    VAAuthorized to Practice Law200810/05/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers0
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Top 3 Divorce Lawyers, Richmond VAThree Best Rated2018
    Virginia's Legal EliteVirginia Business Magazine2017
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2017
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2016
    Top 3 Divorce Lawyers in Richmond, VirginiaThree Best Rated2016
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2016
    Virginia's Legal EliteVirginia Business Magazine2015
    Top 10 Attorneys Under 40National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys2015
    "10 Best" Attorneys for VirginiaAmerican Institute of Family Law Attorneys2015
    Reader's Choice, Lawyer NominationRichmond Times-Dispatch2015
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2015
    Top 100 LawyersThe National Advocates2014
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers2014
    Client Satisfaction AwardAVVO2014
    10 Best Under 40American Institute of Family Law Attorneys2014
    Top 10 Attorneys Under 40National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys2014
    Client Satisfaction AwardAVVO2013
    Most Likely to Become Law School DeanWilliam and Mary School of Law, Class of 20072007
    Honorary Iraqi FirefighterIraqi Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense Fire & Emergency Service2004
    The Benjamin Stoddert Ewell AwardCollege of William and Mary2003
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Attorney & OwnerSmith Strong, PLC2012 - Present
    AttorneySevila, Saunders, Huddleston & White2011 - 2012
    Program & Development ManagerUniversity of Virginia Foundation2008 - 2011
    Associate AttorneyWilliams Mullen2007 - 2008
    Policy AdvisorDepartment Of Defense2003 - 2004
    InternMcGuire Woods Consulting2002 - 2002
    InternUnited States Senate2001 - 2001
    Director of Public Outreach (promoted from intern to Director)The College Of William & Mary2000 - 2003
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Lawyers with PurposeMember2015 - Present
    Virginia Business MagazineMember2015 - Present
    American Institute of Family Law AttorneysMember2014 - Present
    WealthCounselMember2013 - Present
    Historic Richmond FoundationQuoit Club2012 - Present
    Richmond Bar AssociationMember2012 - Present
    Virginia Trial Lawyers AssociationMember, Family Law Section2011 - Present
    American Bar AssociationMember, Family Law & Law Practice Management Sections2008 - Present
    Virginia State BarMember, Family Law Section & Litigation Section2008 - Present
    Chesterfield County Bar AssociationMember2012 - 2013
    Loudoun County Bar AssociationMember2011 - 2012
    Loudoun County Chamber of CommerceMember2011 - 2012
    George Wythe Society of Citizen LawyersFormer President2005 - 2007
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Word Association PressThe Ultimate Guide to Divorce & Custody in Virginia: Quickly Get Back to Fully Living Your Life2013
    E-BookThe 7 Essential Steps to Divorce Planning in Virginia2012
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    William & Mary Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2007
    College of William and MaryBA - Bachelor of Arts2003
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Estate PlanningTwo Phases of Estate Planning: A Secure Retirement & Avoiding Going Broke in the Nursing Home2015
    George Wythe Walking Tour & ReceptionThe Role of the Citizen Lawyer in Society2006

    Reviews

    (49)4.5 stars
    5 Star
    		88%
    4 Star
    		4%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		2%
    1 Star
    		6%
    Review H. Van Smith

    No need to search high and low..search Van

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    After searching online and discovering Van's website, I knew he was the man for the job. Once you meet Van you will realize he is very personable and loves his profession. Van has a great heart and is knowledgeable in what he loves. I was nervous and he walked me through the process and at the same time made the experience a pleasant one. I highly recommend Van for any big decisions you need dealing with a lawyer. On his side he has experience, commitment, and effective communication. He was always positive with his reassurance. Van's staff was very friendly and very accommodating. They all are really good people who make up a great team to have on your side. "Good has two meanings- it means that which is good absolutely and that which is good for somebody." Aristotle Van is both :)
    More
    H. Van Smith's response: This comment is really powerful, and I'm truly humbled to read it (and I'll admit, I re-read it too!). First, thank you. Second, our firm is truly blessed to have clients that come to us for honest, done-right-the-first-time solutions. Working on your matter was very enjoyable, including securing the 'little tweaks' needed to get the agreement signed. All the best, Van

    Estate planning

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Extensive market research of estate planning firms in my area repeatedly lead me to Mr. Van Smith. Through a process of elimination centering on firms not returning my calls, charging for consultation, unfavorable reviews, Smith Strong stood above at the outset. Mr. Smith listened to my needs, presented many options, and developed an estate plan that is flexible with life changes. Being very familiar with military related dynamics was particularly valuable to me as a client. Mr. Van Smith is very personable and approachable. He listens. And he is very strategic. Those qualities are exactly what I was seeking in a lawyer, and found in him. Thank you!
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Superior Representation

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    In our mid-60s, my wife and I were anxious to update our 20-yr old wills/ trust documents. References from several of our reliable attorney, banker friends intersected at the office of Van Smith. Van prudently and professionally led us through an informative, detailed estate planning exercise that enabled us to create a customized, comprehensive strategy; meet our combined trust objectives; and construct an estate framework that can be updated as future circumstances warrant. We were favorably impressed with Van's knowledge, experience, and, especially, his gift of exceptional communication skills. In addition to thoughtfully and patiently addressing our questions, he was able to effortlessly and clearly contextualize complex concepts which enabled us to visualize how each component of the overall plan works together for our benefit. Van is friendly, engaging, and personable. It's been a joy to work with him and his expert legal team. We've found everyone at SmithStrong works with high energy, enthusiasm, courtesy, attentiveness, and timeliness.
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    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent team to have on your side

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Van Smiths has been my legal team for over two years through a difficult divorce and child custody. The lawyers and the legal team did an outstanding job ensuring all my concerns were addressed. Probably the most important thing you need first is information to understand the legal processes. Van provides great information and feedback to allow you to make the right decisions at the right time. In the end I got a much better settlement then I could have hoped for at the start. Mostly due to Vans' team providing insight into the legal processes and developing a winning strategy. I highly recommend them.
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    H. Van Smith's response: Thank you very much for this kind review. And I think it gets to a point that I have a hard time articulating--"Van, what makes you and your firm different?" At root, I think we try to help our clients make the very best decisions, and we do that by leading the client, opposing counsel (if any), and other side with organization, focus, and momentum. That requires experience, both in and out of court, sure, but also a desire, through systems, to meet the goals that the client sets out in our initial case preparation meeting. I'm pleased to hear that this came together for you and your matter in such a positive way. Great! And thank you for helping us get the word out.

    An Atourney Interested in His Client's Best Interests

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I first met Mr. Smith attending one of his complimentary Asset Protection Workshops. If you attend this workshop he will give you 90 minutes of time to consult within the next 6 months. When I met with him in private, after reviewing my case considering my wife's mental health he recommended a divorce over an Asset Protection Plan. In the long run, the office could have earned more doing the APP. Mr. Smith crafted a non-standard property settlement agreement that protected my retirement savings. He was able to get a very disagreeable woman to sign the agreement in 29 minutes! He and his office has guided me throughout the process. I would highly recommend him for skills and talents, and have recommended him to others in need.
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    H. Van Smith's response: Skilled negotiation is easy to say, but hard to deliver on, particularly for attorneys. In my observation, many simply tow impossibly hard lines because they think that's what a client wants to hear, which inevitably drives the parties to court, that in the end nets the attorney more fees. I strive to practice effective, skilled negotiation, where possible, and court, only when necessary. That comes from a place of honesty and integrity to want the very best for my clients, and their families. That said, I and the attorneys in my firm, Smith Strong, PLC, are in court about once a week for the 1 in 5 that don't reach a skillfully negotiated settlement. The best way to describe how that is done with such a high success rate is to methodically organize the assets, debts, and if present, child-issues, presented. Then it requires going deeper, to psychologically understand where both sides are coming from, to truly marinate in that world-view, to understand it, keenly. That allows us to develop creative solutions, that meet the ears of opposing parties with acceptance--very quickly. Parties that for years have been "stuck" in fights, in protracted separation periods, meet with us and on average in 2, maybe 3 sessions, get unstuck, and are able to move on with their lives. The joy that closure brings is unimaginable for our clients in that moment. It is very gratifying to play the role of legal counselor and advisor in that moment.

    Top Notch in litigation skills and counsel

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Van Smith has been by far the best attorney you will every come across. Both he and his staff have been there for me every step of the way through a very tough litigation process. Van made me feel at ease throughout this process, and always made it a point to be both responsive; and had such superb knowledge of the law; that I was not left in a position where I felt that I was not in good hands. His skills in the court room far exceeded that of opposing counsel. Van took my life throughout my custody/divorce process into his own hands and placed very close attention to details that, in my experience, far exceeded that of other attorneys. This is by far the best attorney in the state of Virginia, and would highly recommend him to anyone going through a difficult divorce/custody battle
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best family attorney in Virginia 10 stars

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Van Smith is the best in the business when in comes to practicing family law. Coming from a strong legal background myself; I feel that from one attorney to another, I serve as a good judge of this. Van excelled in his litigation skills and paid very close attention to each and every detail of my case. He was 10 steps ahead of a very strong opposing counsel. Both he and his staff were readily available to answer very crucial decisions that I needed to make at key points in time. Without this type of responsiveness, my outcome would have been a whole lot different. He was both understanding and honest, and provided me with realistic expectations each and every step of the way. He also kept me informed of each and every new piece of information immediately, and provided me with opportunity to make informed decisions. He has superb knowledge of the law. His actions speak loudly, and is a leader in the court room. If you are going through a difficult divorce/custody battle, consider yourself lucky to have Van Smith as your attorney. His close attention to details that I would not have thought of on my own is crucial.
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent Attorney. Professional, Timely, and Courteous.

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    I had the trifecta from hell: A custody battle, a divorce, and then a PSA enforcement of said divorce. All three were handled by Van and his team. I was never lacking in communication and they were always very thorough to explain my options. What was most impressive, was that during this time (and it was the better part of 3 years for all of this), several attorneys had life event changes and had to leave. I had two attorneys leave during my cases. I was afraid things would be jumbled when the next attorney took my case, but thanks to Van, transitions were smooth. He even took on my case himself to make up for events that were obviously beyond his control when the second attorney had to move. A third attorney was on my case then too, but Van had been personally overseeing everything from the start. The team always made sure to double review every drawn up document carefully with me. We had some air-tight agreements because of this. All three events had better than expected outcomes, and I give that credit to Van and his team for their legal skills, their presence in court, and very clever drafting of legal documents. A final note. While they're based in Richmond, they do have an office in Williamsburg (they know the judges here too).
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    H. Van Smith's response: Daniel, Thank you for this very kind review. As I sit back and reflect, we truly have been through a lot together, haven't we. And I'm so pleased that where it mattered most, we prevailed in court. Thank you for trusting me to serve as your guide through settlement negotiations, and ultimately court hearings--and glad we were able to provide "better than expected" outcomes my friend. Best of luck in your future, and our absolute best to you and your family. Let us know if you need us, in the meantime, it was a pleasure to serve. Sincerely, Attorney Van Smith & the Smith Strong, PLC team

    Pleased Client

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    My husband and I have had a really hard time finding a decent lawyer. My husband got online and simply typed in the best family attorney in or near Williamsburg Va. Vans was the first page that popped up and im glad it did! We've been through so much and it was refreshing meeting Van and his team. They welcomed us in with open arms. Van and his team explained things thoroughly, they were easy to get into contact with, and were very understanding of your situation. When your looking to hire someone to put your trust in, you want someone who truely loves what they do. You will get that with Van and his team. I would definitely recommend Van to anyone looking for a great knowledgeable friendly attorney!!!
    More
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    H. Van Smith's response: Matt and Jess, thanks so much for your kind review, and putting your trust in our firm. That first meeting was so important. We set out our goals, and then with your help methodically moved towards resolution in a way that avoided court. We truly enjoyed helping you with your family law matter. Thank you for the high praise. And keep in touch! Our best from the whole team, Van

    Top Notch

    5.0 stars

    Posted by

    Going to meet Van was one of the hardest days of my life. He did a fantastic job in every aspect. I am beyond satisfied. Van and his team are exceptional, you can trust them. His online videos and books really prepare you as well. Look no further, you won't find better.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    H. Van Smith's response: Thank you so much! From our entire team, it was truly a privilege to represent you. And I was so happy we were able to reach the solution so quickly. Thank you for putting your trust in us at such a critical moment in your life. We wish you all of the best in your future. Keep in touch! --Van
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (29)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer
    Lawyer J. Brian Bailey

    J. Bailey, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 23, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Smith has a sterling reputation in the Richmond legal community - a distinction he has earned through tireless and expert representation of his clients.

    Lawyer Jamie Leigh Allgood

    Jamie Allgood, Estate planning Attorney on Mar 2, 2017
    Relationship: Co-worker

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer J. Brian Bailey

    J. Bailey, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 23, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Smith has a sterling reputation in the Richmond legal community - a distinction he has earned through tireless and expert representation of his clients.

    Lawyer Jamie Leigh Allgood

    Jamie Allgood, Estate planning Attorney on Mar 2, 2017
    Relationship: Co-worker

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

    Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 13, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Mark Issa Murad

    Mark Murad, Unknown Attorney on Mar 21, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Jarrett David Blakeley

    Jarrett Blakeley, Unknown Attorney on Nov 29, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Brad Kannof Kaiserman

    Brad Kaiserman, Family Attorney on Nov 26, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Smith. Competent, experienced, and hard working attorney with a proven track record of success.

    Lawyer Lee Zavatsky

    Lee Zavatsky, Family Attorney on Nov 24, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Smith. He is experienced, talented, and always looks out for the best interest of his clients. A respected member in our legal industry.

    Lawyer Philip Israels

    Philip Israels, Family Attorney on Nov 20, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Horace Smith. Highly skilled lawyer who is dedicated to the success of his clients. Has earned respect from his colleagues in the legal industry.

    Lawyer Steven M. Cron

    Steven Cron, Family Attorney on Nov 20, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Horace Smith. Dedicated, talented, and hard working attorney who aggressively fights to obtain the best possible outcome for his clients. He has earned respect from his colleagues within the legal community.

    Lawyer Alan Eisner

    Alan Eisner, Family Attorney on Nov 17, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Smith. A respected member within the legal community with a track record of success.

    Lawyer Mariya Furman

    Mariya Furman, Family Attorney on Nov 17, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Van Smith. Demonstrates the highest levels of professionalism, zealousness and knowledge which he utilizes to obtain outstanding results for his clients.

    Lawyer Patrick J Cooney

    Patrick Cooney, Divorce and separation Attorney on Nov 11, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Ronald Daniel Hedding

    Ronald Hedding, Family Attorney on Oct 16, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Smith. A strong advocate for his clients and a respected member in the legal industry.

    Lawyer Colin Grant McCallin

    Colin McCallin, Unknown Attorney on Oct 3, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Kristopher Joel Hilscher

    Kristopher Hilscher, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 29, 2014
    Relationship: Friend

    I endorse this attorney. He is a great guy and a great attorney.

    Lawyer Joseph Torri

    Joseph Torri, Unknown Attorney on Sep 23, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Lawyer Michael Aaron Goldstein

    Michael Goldstein, Family Attorney on Sep 22, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse attorney Horace Van Smith. He is skilled, hard working, and respected within the legal community.

    Lawyer Simon Kabzan

    Simon Kabzan, Family Attorney on Sep 11, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this individual as a highly respected and knowledgable lawyer in their practice.

    Lawyer Portland J. Downing Campanaro

    Portland Campanaro, Child custody Attorney on Aug 19, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. One of the top attorneys in the region.

    Lawyer Richard Todd Rosenstein

    Richard Rosenstein, Unknown Attorney on Jul 31, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. He is a skilled member of the legal community.

    Cost

    RATES
    • Hourly Rates $195-$359/hour
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card