About Us

Zane D. Smith & Associates, Ltd., was founded in 1989 by Zane D. Smith. Although it has grown over the years, it has always maintained its goal of remaining small enough to provide personal attention while maintaining quality representation of a diverse selection of clients normally associated with larger firms.

The firm’s practice is concentrated in complex litigation. However, it also includes a broad range of commercial and real estate transactions services. The complex litigation includes civil rights, employment, intellectual property, construction, labor, ERISA, class actions, medical malpractice, franchise law, as well as the defense of manufacturers and corporations in both contract and tort claim liability.

The transactional work is also varied and substantial. It includes the purchase and sales of businesses, negotiating financing terms and acquisition and development of major commercial, industrial and residential real estate transactions. It also includes commercial and office leasing, franchising and related corporate work. The firm’s clients have always included some of the largest corporations in the country as well as small, mid-size and family businesses and individuals. For these clients the firm’s practice covers a broad range of transactions and litigation with a goal toward giving personalized service.

One of the goals as a firm has always been to represent and help those individuals who can hardly afford to hire an attorney. That is why we believe that the contingency fee arrangement has allowed us to take cases that economically would not make sense to take on an hourly basis. Contingency fee arrangements typically allow us to receive a percentage of any recovery only if we win. While the client is still responsible for any expenses incurred in the prosecution of the claim, no legal fees are paid unless there is a monetary recovery for the client. So for the widow who has just lost her husband as a result of medical malpractice, the contingency fee agreement provides her with the keys to the courthouse that she would otherwise be prevented from entering. We will also look at cases that other firms have turned down. Some of the larger firms will not take cases that are too risky or too controversial. So if you believe you have a claim and would like an attorney to review it, call or email our office and we would be happy to discuss it with you free of charge.