An attorney driven by advocacy and a commitment to justice, Darnell Anthony Smith, Esq. is passionate about representing individuals who have been harmed due to the negligence of others. With a strong foundation in trial advocacy and a dedication to continual growth, Darnell brings focus, preparation, and resolve to every case he handles.
Darnell is an associate attorney at Lipton Law and a graduate of Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Auburn Hills, Michigan. He is licensed to practice law in both Michigan and New York. During law school, Darnell served as a student attorney with the Family Law Assistance Project, a legal aid program providing critical services to low-income residents. This experience reinforced his commitment to serving everyday people during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
In addition to his clinical work, Darnell was a member of the National Mock Trial Team and competed in numerous regional and national trial competitions across the country. His passion for trial advocacy extends beyond his own practice—he actively volunteers with several advocacy and education programs, including the Michigan Center for Civic Education Mock Trial Program, the State Bar of Michigan National Trial Advocacy Competition, and the New York State Trial Lawyers Association Trial Competition, where he helps mentor and prepare future trial attorneys.
Since graduating from law school, Darnell has dedicated his legal career exclusively to representing plaintiffs injured as a result of negligence. Known as a fierce and client-focused advocate, he approaches each case with determination, preparation, and an eye toward strengthening his skills as a litigator while achieving the best possible outcomes for those he represents.
Darnell approaches every case with the mindset that it could be presented before a jury, ensuring that each client’s story is developed clearly, thoughtfully, and persuasively. He believes strong advocacy begins with listening and building trust—then translating the facts of a case into a compelling narrative.
When he’s not advocating for his clients, Darnell enjoys unwinding with his dogs and catching up on his ever-growing watchlist.
Areas of Practice
- Personal Injury
- Automobile / No-Fault cases
- Premises Liability
- Medical Malpractice
- Dog Bite
- General negligence
- Motorcycle and Truck accidents.
Education
- Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Auburn Hills, Michigan
- J.D. – 2016
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Vice Chair of the OCBA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
- Oakland County Bar Association New Lawyers Committee
- State Bar of Michigan Young Lawyers Section
- New York State Bar Association
- Michigan Association of Justice (MAJ)
- American Association of Justice (AAJ)