Patrick David Smith

Patrick Smith represents public and private sector employers in a broad spectrum of employment and labor matters, both inside and outside the courtroom.

For 25 years, Patrick has been trying and litigating cases before juries, judges, administrative agencies and arbitrators. He has defended clients sued for all manner of employment related claims, including discrimination, retaliation, wrongful discharge, FMLA, FLSA/wage and hour violations, defamation and employment torts. Patrick represents employers in the drafting, negotiation and enforcement of non-compete and trade secret agreements. He defends public sector clients (such as school districts, cities, counties and municipal utilities) in civil rights, due process, whistleblower and open records/open meetings disputes. In the traditional labor law arena, Patrick defends employers charged with unfair labor practices before the National Labor Relations Board, and advises employers in collective bargaining negotiations.

Although a frequent litigator, one of Patrick’s goals is to help clients avoid litigation. To that end, his practice includes consulting with employers on legal compliance, HR audits, drafting employment policies and handbooks, management training and internal investigations.