Michael J. Smith

Bio Overview:

Michael Smith is the managing partner of the Tavares office in Lake County, Florida. Mr. Smith has been practicing law since 1996 and is admitted to the Florida Bar.  He was raised in Ocala, Florida and graduated with high honors from Forest High School.  He attended the University of Florida, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Zoology.  Mr. Smith then attended Stetson University College of Law where he graduated with honors.

Mr. Smith began his legal career as an assistant state attorney for the State of Florida.  He prosecuted such crimes as drug trafficking, sex crimes, and was specially appointed as a felony domestic violence prosecutor.  During the 3 years he served as a prosecutor, he conducted over 50 jury trials.  Following his government service, Mr. Smith was an in-house attorney for State Farm Insurance Company as a claims litigation attorney.  He worked for 2 years for State Farm specializing in personal injury and insurance dispute cases.

Since joining Morgan and Morgan in 2001, Mr. Smith has represented hundreds of clients and their families injured by the negligence of others.  He has obtained awards from juries in far excess of the offers made by insurance companies and has even successfully obtained settlements from major corporations. 

Mr. Smith is board certified in civil trial law.

Education: University of Florida Bachelor of science degree with honors in Zoology, 1993 Stetson University School of Law J.D, 1996 Member of : The Florida Bar Florida Justice Association American Trial Lawyers Association Former Assistant State Attorney, 6th Judicial Circuit Former Corporate Counsel for State Farm Insurance Company Practice Areas: Personal Injury Insurance Claims Wrongful Death Automobile Negligence Premises Liability Products Liability