Powerlist – Brent P. Smith – Johns, Flaherty & Collins

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A Madison native and graduate, Brent P. Smith went all-in when accepting the job at Johns, Flaherty & Collins in June 1978. Smith had visited La Crosse one time for a job interview before accepting and joining the firm with a concentration in civil litigation. He discovered a growing interest in employment law as clients sought his expertise in this area while remaining true to his initial focus even after four decades.

When it comes to his relationship with his clients, Smith believes that mutual respect is fundamental to the success of his representation, while emphasizing the importance of listening and tailoring advice based on the client’s desired goal.

“Often being involved in a community can help shape the advice(or at least the options) you give a client,” said Smith. “How are the parties thought of in the community and how does a client’s reputation and/or success depend at times on how you handle a particular employment issue.”

In addition to long-term client relationships, Smith credits his membership to the Wisconsin Defense Counsel for many of his friendships with others in the legal community.