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Biography

For nearly thirty years, I, Derek Smith, have dedicated my legal career to fighting for the rights of victims of sexual harassment and discrimination since 1995. With our offices in New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, California, and Florida, the Derek Smith Law Group isn’t just another firm—it’s a beacon of hope for those who have faced injustice in the workplace.

My passion for this work stems from a deep understanding of the profound impact sexual harassment and discrimination can have on an individual’s life. It’s more than just an inconvenience; it can shatter confidence, damage careers, and create a toxic work environment.

That’s why I take a personal approach to every case. You’re not just a case file – you’re a person who deserves to be heard and treated with respect. We have the pleasure and honor of representing people from all different careers, from blue-collar workers to world famous celebrities.

My Journey: From Witness to Advocate

My legal journey began with witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by workplace harassment. It fueled a sense of responsibility within me – a responsibility to ensure a voice for those who are silenced, and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Over the years, I’ve seen countless individuals come through my doors, each with a unique story. Some come shaken and unsure, others filled with righteous anger. But what unites them all is the desire for justice, for a sense of closure, and for a workplace free from harassment or discrimination.

A Record of Success, a Passion for Justice

Since 1995, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless individuals secure the compensation they deserve. More importantly, I’ve played a role in creating a safer, more respectful work environment for countless others. The fight isn’t just about settlements, though securing over $400 million for my clients demonstrates the power of holding companies accountable. I also hold the record for the largest emotional distress jury verdict ever to be upheld on appeal in the entire United States in an employment discrimination case.

It’s about empowering individuals to reclaim their lives, to rebuild their confidence, and to move forward with a sense of justice achieved.

Defendants also fear us because they know we are not afraid to take cases to trial if need be. Interestingly, it is our impressive track record in jury trials that causes Defendants to pay to settle your case without ever having to start the lawsuit.

My Approach: Personalized Advocacy with Unshakeable Resolve

Here at the Derek Smith Law Group, you can expect:

  • Free and confidential consultations: Sharing your story can be difficult. We offer a safe space to discuss your experiences without pressure.
  • In-depth case evaluation: We’ll meticulously analyze your situation to determine the strongest legal strategy.
  • Compassionate and aggressive representation: I combine empathy with a tenacious fight for your rights.
  • Clear communication: You’ll be kept informed every step of the way, with all your questions answered promptly.
  • Relentless pursuit of justice: I won’t back down until you receive the compensation and accountability you deserve.

 

My Experience: Your Advantage

Over the years, I have handled a wide range of sexual harassment and discrimination cases, including:

  • Quid pro quo harassment
  • Hostile work environment
  • Employment Discrimination
  • Sexual Assault
  • Civil Rape
  • Retaliation for reporting harassment
  • Gender discrimination
  • Race discrimination
  • Age discrimination
  • Disability discrimination
  • Wage & Hour
  • Whistleblower

This extensive experience allows me to anticipate legal roadblocks and develop winning strategies tailored to your specific situation.

More Than Just Legal Expertise

While legal expertise is crucial, it’s only half the battle. I understand the emotional toll that sexual harassment and discrimination can take. That’s why I offer a level of personalized support that goes beyond the courtroom.

If you wish, we work with a network of therapists and counselors who can help you process your experience and navigate the healing journey.

Taking Back Control: Your Next Step

If you’ve been a victim of sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace or anywhere, know this: you’re not alone. You have rights, and you deserve to be heard.

Don’t let fear or intimidation silence you. Contact the Derek Smith Law Group today for a free consultation. Together, we can navigate the legal path to justice and help you reclaim control of your life.

Let’s work together to foster safer workplaces. Call now for a free consultation at 800-807-2209.

Awards and Recognition

Top-Rated by SuperLawyers year after year as one of the top 5% attorneys in Employment Law; Obtained the Largest Emotional Distress Verdict upheld in an Employment Law Case in the entire United States; Secured a Settlement in Excess of $15,000,000 on behalf of a client; Settled another case for an amount in excess of $6,000,000 and another case for an amount in excess of $7,000,000. Obtained a jury verdict in excess of $4,000,000. Obtained many other multi-million dollar settlements and jury verdicts. Perfect 10.0 Avvo Lawyer Rating. Top Employment Lawyer As Recognized By Newsweek. Recognized by New York Law Journal for Top Verdicts in Employment Law.

Membership

National Employment Lawyers Association; NELA

Admission

  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Pennsylvania
  • Florida
  • California
  • U.S. District Court of the Northern, Southern and Eastern Districts of New York
  • U.S. District Court Eastern and Middle Districts of Pennsylvania
  • U.S. District Court District of New Jersey,
  • U.S. District Court Southern District of Florida
  • Supreme Court of The United States

Education

The Penn State, Dickinson School of Law, J.D., 1994

The University of Michigan, B.A., 1991

Université de Droit, d’Économie, et des Sciences d’Aix-Marseille, 1990

Languages

English, French

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