Smith, Richard P.

Attorney Gerald E. Smith grew up in Superior, Wisconsin. As a youth, he consistently made the honor roll, while competing with the Traveling All-Star Hockey Team in national tournaments throughout the Northern States. He was also proficient in the Martial Arts, both as an Instructor and Full Contact Fighter. After attending three years at the University of Minnesota , he transferred to the University of Texas where he obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree.

Prior to his decision to pursue his career as an attorney, Mr. Smith had a highly successful career as a Texas Police Officer, ultimately obtaining the rank of Sergeant . In addition, he was a member of the Department's SWAT Team. He was recognized not only for his work while on duty as a police officer, but also for the implementation of a Drug Educational Program (DARE) in three school districts . Also, he achieved his Instructor's Certification from Texas Commission Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Education (T.C.L.O.S.E.) and taught various topics to new officers in the Academy. However, as a result of an injury sustained while on duty, Mr. Smith was forced to pursue another career and decided to attend law school. As a law clerk, Mr. Smith interned for the U.S. Attorney's Office and in the private sector for a small civil firm. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 1993, he passed the February 1994 Bar Exam.

Mr. Smith is a member of the State Bar of California and the Federal Bar in Central, Eastern and Southern Districts of California. Mr. Smith was a former prosecutor with the city of San Diego.He had previously worked for a large criminal defense firm and exceptionally handled the firm's serious felony cases (e.g., murder, attempt murder, robbery, rapes, sexual assaults, child molestation, assault, battery, domestic violence, drug charges, theft related charges, and DUI's). Mr. Smith is highly respected by both judges and prosecutors, and has been very successful in negotiating cases where a trial was not in the best interest of his clients.

Mr. Smith is an aggressive, experienced attorney who has handled a multitude of cases with impressive results. He believes in earning the trust from his clients and getting to know them personally, so they do not feel that they are just a file number. For almost 20 years as an attorney, Mr. Smith has used his experience and skill defending the rights of the wrongfully accused.

Accomplishments:
Texas Commission Law Enforcement Officers Standards, Instructor
Martial Arts Instructor, 2nd Degree Black Belt Tae Kwon Do (Full Contact Fighter Pro-Ams)