Aaron D. Smith
Partner;
Chair, Practice Management Committee
Aaron’s practice is litigation focused, working on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants. However, his core practice involves defense of individuals and businesses in many different types of cases, including premises liability, medical malpractice, wrongful death and professional negligence. His experience on both sides of the courtroom enables him to anticipate how his opposing counsel and their clients might think, and anticipate their next move.
It’s given him exceptional experience in negotiating claims, leading to multiple dismissals of claims and settling large cases. “The very best part of my work is the moment when we’ve won the case or negotiated a good outcome that allows my client to move forward with their business and their lives,” Aaron says. “It is my goal to get my clients back to their normal lives and ability to operate their businesses, or as close to it as possible, while reaching a fair and equitable agreement for all involved and not dragging out a case any longer than necessary.”
Aaron works with some of the firms’ largest clients on medical malpractice defense, including wrongful death and product liability cases. The cases are often incredibly complex, involving multiple entities and detailed medical records. Aaron’s extensive experience, deep knowledge of the law and mind for details helps him examine the case from every angle and present possible solutions to the client, enabling a faster resolution for all involved.
His work handling both defense and plaintiffs’ cases also helps him give business owners solid advice on avoiding risk. Aaron drafts and reviews contracts, helps businesses handle thorny employment issues and represents businesses facing regulatory problems.
Aaron also regularly represents and advises governmental agencies with regard to employment issues, civil rights claims, planning and zoning and land use regulation. He has also worked with government agencies on law enforcement and jail policy and procedure. “One of the most valuable things an attorney can do for a client is to provide advice on how to avoid risk,” Aaron says. “The work we do to prevent lawsuits saves a lot of headache and ultimately reduces the amount clients have to spend with us to continue to be successful. The work is particularly gratifying when an issue comes up later and you know that you’ve already addressed this with a client and shouldn’t have any problems. We all sleep better at night when issues are anticipated and handled ahead of time.”
Aaron is past President of the Bowling Green-Warren County Bar Association and currently serves as chair of the firm’s Practice Management Committee. He also serves as chair of the Litigation Practice Group. He lives in Bowling Green, is married and has a daughter.
