Polsinelli has continued the expansion of its commercial litigation practice with the arrival of Andrew “Andy” A. Smith as a shareholder in its New York office. Smith represents investment banks, private equity firms, real estate developers and other businesses in complex commercial litigation, with a particular focus on financial disputes.
“Andy’s experience representing financial institutions, private equity firms and other businesses in high-stakes disputes is a strong complement to our national commercial litigation practice,” Noel S. Cohen, chair of Polsinelli’s commercial litigation practice, said. “His ability to navigate complex matters while also identifying opportunities for strategic resolution further reinforces our ability to advise clients on sophisticated commercial disputes.”
Drawing on nearly two decades of experience, Smith handles litigation at both the trial and appellate levels and has successfully tried cases in multiple jurisdictions. His practice spans disputes involving business partnerships, executive compensation, real estate and intellectual property, with clients ranging from major New York real estate developers and financial institutions to emerging companies and nonprofit organizations. He also has significant experience in mediation and arbitration, advising clients on opportunities to resolve disputes while weighing the legal, financial and operational considerations at stake.
Smith added, “What excites me most about joining Polsinelli is the opportunity to build something alongside a terrific group of attorneys who share my commitment to our clients. Polsinelli has assembled an exceptionally talented team, and I’m proud to be joining it. I look forward to helping grow our commercial litigation practice in New York and bringing the full strength of the firm’s national platform to bear for our clients.”
Smith’s approach to dispute resolution is also informed by his prior experience with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, where he served as an attorney adviser to the Office of Legal Affairs. He earned his J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law and his B.A. from Bucknell University.
