Chuck Smith

Mr. Smith is an experienced trial lawyer, having tried many cases in federal and state courts around the country. These cases typically involve complex securities, accounting, financial or bankruptcy-related issues. He has represented many companies and their officers and directors in securities and derivative litigation, including Bank of America, Fifth Third Bank, UBS, Sprint Corporation, Fidelity Investments and Allstate Corporation.

He has extensive experience navigating complex multi-layered matters that involve both litigation and regulatory enforcement. Mr. Smith has represented many companies and individuals in SEC, DOJ, CFTC and FINRA enforcement matters. Among these clients are Bank of America, CME Group and Ameriprise Financial. He regularly represents corporate officers and directors in investigations.

Mr. Smith also has represented a number of clients in high-profile investigations under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. He has represented a major financial exchange, manufacturers, medical device companies and many other clients in investigations, as well as transaction due diligence and training on compliance matters.

Mr. Smith is a frequent speaker on litigation, compliance and enforcement issues. He is a 2014 recipient of the Excellence in the Law Award from the National Diversity Council. This award recognizes attorneys in the Chicago area who have distinguished themselves through their leadership, resolve and outstanding achievements for the benefit of their clients, collaborators and communities. Mr. Smith is a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago and is a trustee emeritus at Knox College, in Galesburg, Illinois. Selected by the board of trustees of the University of Chicago, Mr. Smith previously served on its Law School Council, a body comprised of judges, senior corporate executives and practicing lawyers that advises the law school on strategic matters.

Mr. Smith has been ranked repeatedly in Band 1 of Chambers USA for his work in securities litigation, with clients describing him as a “masterful practitioner” and an “outstanding attorney.” He also has been recognized repeatedly in The Best Lawyers in America and named a Client Service All-Star by The BTI Consulting Group.