Zachary D. Smith

Before starting this firm, I practiced as a trial advocate with the in the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy and later with an established small firm in downtown Cincinnati. I became a public defender because I craved action. I wanted to gain experience counseling clients and develop my courtroom skills. When I transitioned into private practice I added civil litigation to my repertoire, gravitating toward and eventually specializing in Family Law in Ohio and Kentucky.

Family Background: "Problems Are Three Dimensional"

Both of my parents were managers. Every night, before my dad took off his coat or anyone started on dinner, my parents would unwind and chat about the events of the day. My mom, the analytical one, and my dad, the communicator, would bounce things off each other until they figured it out. My mom would always say "Problems are three dimensional." She was right.

While I appreciate the problem-solving skills my parents displayed, it was not always about massaging a solution. Whether I wanted to stay out late or borrow the car, the answer was always "No." I always heard "Maybe". A vigorous debate would ensue. Sometimes I would win, and sometimes we would agree to disagree, but I would always put up a spirited fight. I credit these interactions for bringing me to a career in advocacy and problem solving.

Family Law Attorney - Mediator - Collaborator

I am a trained Family Law Mediator, currently served as co-president of the Cincinnati Academy of Collaborative Professionals and litigate my fair share of cases. I enjoy Family Law because it allows me to use all the tools in my toolbox. I believe a client is best served when you engage in complex problem solving, generate creative outcomes, and are ready to lean on the nuances and technical aspects of the law to prevail in Court. I understand every family is different, and every family requires different tools be deployed. Whether they know it or not, my parents greatly informed my approach to the practice of Family Law.

Practicing Family Law fulfills me because it allows me to wear all "hats". I get to problem solve, generate "outside the box" solutions, and, when required, pursue my clients' goals in Court. All while helping people through a difficult process.

Ohio State Bar Association ("OSBA") Certified Family Relations Law Specialist

Board Certification is a mark of excellence and distinguishing accomplishment. Many Ohio attorneys have answered the challenge laid our more than 20 years ago by the Supreme Court Commission on Certification of Attorneys as Specialists (CCAS). Possessing the certification designation ensures the attorney is dedicated to achieving and maintaining a standard a standard of practice and to leveling the playing field for clients to confidently search for an attorney in their area. The OSBA Certified Specialist Seal indicates that the attorney has demonstrated substantial involvement in a specialty area, received references from other lawyers and judges with attest to their competency, passed a written exam, attend CLE in Family Law, are in good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio, and have professional liability insurance.

Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers ("AAML")

To be a Fellow of the AAML means being elevated to the highest level of distinction and providing the highest quality of family law services you can find. Lawyers who have earned the right to be called a Fellow of AAML have the demonstrated unparalleled expertise and professionalism you would expect to experience from a lawyer of this caliber. This designation also requires evidence of substantial involvement in a Matrimonial (Family) Law, references from other lawyers and judges attesting to competency as Matrimonial Lawyer and a written exam. Another written exam.

Personal Life

When I am not working or wishing I had time to play golf, my Wife and I are driving around Ft. Mitchell, KY taking my children David, Scott and Wynn to and from their activities.