Biography

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Laura J Smith

Attorney & Counselor at Law


PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

    Laura began her career at Legal Aid by representing low-income families in Detroit, Michigan. For two years, Laura aided Wayne County residents who were in need of help with their divorce, child custody and support issues. In addition, Laura worked with The Elder Law & Advocacy Center assisting the elderly population of Detroit, Michigan by providing estate planning, foreclosure and civil defense services. From 2008 - 2009 Laura served on the Board of Directors for the Free Legal Aid Clinic, Inc. While in Michigan, Laura gained experience in the practice of law by expanding into appellate practice. Laura has represented clients in child custody appeals with Legal Aid and appealing criminal convictions with the Michigan State Appellate Defender's Office.


EDUCATION

    Laura graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors of Arts from the University of Detroit Mercy in Political Science and Psychology. Laura attended Wayne State University Law School and was awarded her Juris Doctor in 2009. 

ADMISSIONS

    In 2009, Laura moved to Chicago and became licensed in the State of Illinois. From 2009 - 2010 Laura worked at a Law Firm here in Chicago representing clients in numerous areas including divorce, child custody and support, criminal felony and misdemeanor charges, probate and personal injury.

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES AND ASSOCIATIONS

  • Chicago Bar Association
  • American Bar Association
  • Illinois State Bar Association

PRO BONO REPRESENTATION

  • DUI Statutory Summary Suspension Program
  • Wills For Heroes