Zane D. Smith

Zane D. Smith is the founding partner and managing attorney of Zane D. Smith & Associates, Ltd., and has practiced law in Illinois for more than three decades. He is widely recognized as a formidable trial lawyer and a relentless advocate for individuals and families facing powerful institutional defendants. Mr. Smith routinely litigates against hospitals, insurance companies, major corporations, and government entities, and he approaches every case without regard to the size or resources of the opposition.

A graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, Mr. Smith has devoted his career to handling a broad spectrum of complex, high-stakes legal disputes. He has tried countless civil jury cases to verdict in both state and federal courts and has secured more than half a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of his clients. His practice includes medical malpractice, catastrophic personal injury, civil rights violations, and complex commercial litigation.

Mr. Smith is known for his powerful advocacy and unwavering commitment to his clients. He brings intensity, preparation, and clarity to the courtroom, and is widely respected for his ability to communicate complex medical, financial, and technical issues in a manner that resonates with judges and juries alike. His advocacy is grounded in accountability and focused on ensuring that the facts are fully brought to light and that those responsible are required to answer for their conduct.

In addition to his litigation practice, Mr. Smith has served as corporate general counsel, contributed to legislative and bar committee work involving Illinois civil procedure, and held elected public office. This breadth of experience gives him a deep understanding of how large institutions operate, make decisions, and attempt to avoid responsibility. It is a privilege for his firm to represent clients whose lives have been profoundly affected by events that never should have happened. With the right advocate, the courtroom has a way of equalizing power. When Zane is in your corner, bullies do not win.