Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, David M. Smith attended Northern Michigan University and completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics. Prior to being accepted into law school, he worked at the Ingham County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office as a clerk. He also clerked for an Ingham County Circuit Court Judge.
He is a proud graduate of Michigan State University – College of Law. In law school, his sole concentration was developing the trial skills necessary to truly battle for your rights in court. He was a graduate of the prestigious Trial Practice Institute at Michigan State University – College of Law. Only about thirty students were chosen each year to train in this two-year specialty trial advocacy program. In the program, David studied subjects like theater techniques and forensic science—areas of knowledge he continually puts to use in court for those who have been charged with a crime.
David has always loved Chicago since boyhood, when his grandfather took him to the Field Museum and other city attractions. His dream of starting a life here in Chicago was realized when he passed the Illinois bar exam.
He began his legal career as an associate in the Commercial Transportation Group at the large downtown Chicago insurance defense litigation law firm, SmithAmundsen. During his time at the firm, David honed various fundamental legal techniques, such as developing superior writing skills, performing legal research, and conducting arbitration hearings.
David opened his own law firm in October of 2007 and focused on corporate law, business, and contract drafting. However, he began working cases for a busy criminal defense, personal injury, and family law firm in Chicago, which altered the direction of his legal practice. Having the opportunity to assist clients in criminal matters became a passion for him. Something inside David pushes him to stand up for people against any odds.
Since those early years, he has handled thousands of criminal cases and has become a specialist in protecting the legal rights of people like you.
Practice areas
4 years
4 years
14 years, 1,000 cases
14 years, 1,000 cases
Languages spoken
English
State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
---|---|---|---|
IL | Active And Authorized To Practice Law | 2006 | 09/12/2020 |
Award name | Grantor | Date granted |
---|---|---|
Top 100 Trial Lawyers Nationally | The National Trial Lawyers | 2020 |
Top Lawyer - Lifetime Member | Who's Who Legal | 2019 |
Top 10 Under 40 | National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys | 2017 |
Title | Company name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Founding Attorney | Chicago Trusted Attorneys PC | 2018 - Present |
Owner | David M. Smith Attorney at Law PC | 2008 - 2018 |
Associate | SmithAmundsen | 2006 - 2007 |
Association name | Position name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Illinois State Bar Association | Member | 2006 - Present |
Better Business Bureau | Accredited | 2019 - 2021 |
School name | Degree | Graduated |
---|---|---|
Michigan State University College of Law | JD - Juris Doctor | 2006 |
Northern Michigan University | BS - Bachelor of Science - Economics | 2001 |
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Matthew Fakhoury, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 5, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
Mr. Smith is a talented, professional and well respected attorney. He is well liked by all he encounters including prosecutors and judges. I endorse this lawyer.
Derek Martin, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 22, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
David and I see each other in court on a weekly basis. I've had the opportunity to see him interact with counsel and court personnel, advocate for his clients, and provide excellent legal representation. I strongly endorse David.
Jeffrey Moskowitz, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 20, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known David for several years now and can say that he is an excellent attorney. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and has a vast knowledge of the law.
Andrew Weisberg, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 14, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
I have known David Smith for around 8 years. I first met David when he was working for another attorney in Chicago. From the first time I met David, I was impressed with the way he carried himself in court and the manner in which he spoke to people. As a private attorney with my own practice I am never excited when competition presents itself. That being said, the legal profession can always use a skilled criminal defense lawyer. When David opened his own law practice several years ago I knew he would be very successful very quickly. That is exactly what happened. Over the last couple years David and I have teamed up on some very serious cases. Not is only David a very good lawyer but the clients absolutely love him. He gives each client the attention they deserve. He is a lawyer that truly cares about the results and making sure that every last client is happy. I would recommend David Smith if you need a criminal lawyer in Chicago.