ABOUT RESOLVE ADR SERVICES

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After twenty-five years of litigation, I learned that I derive my greatest satisfaction by helping parties resolve disputes. Resolve ADR Services is exclusively focused on resolving civil litigation matters through alternative dispute resolution including mediation, arbitration, dispute resolution boards, and third-party neutral evaluations.

• Mediation. I am a passionate and persistent mediator who uses calibrated questions to assist parties to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their case, as well as provide a reality check on unrealistic expectations. I encourage counsel and their clients to thoroughly prepare for the mediation session to maximize efficiency and minimize cost. I have assisted hundreds of parties to reach resolution of matters by facilitating communication, addressing obstacles, and restoring relationships. I am both a North Carolina Superior Court certified mediator and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil mediator. 

•  Arbitration: Parties can hire a private judge to resolve their dispute. Either through the American Arbitration Association or by party selection, the parties can retain an arbitrator with expertise to provide a more reasoned determination of the law and the facts. 

•  Third-Party Neutral Evaluation: An early, independent review and opinion concerning the facts underlying a dispute can provide parties with a reality check before spending thousands of dollars in litigation. 

• Dispute Resolution Boards: DRBs are independent panels, made up of neutral third-party individuals selected by both the owner and the contractor, who review disputes from construction projects and offer recommendations on how to proceed. This process has helped avoid claims resulting from lingering disputes that can delay progress and incinerate relationships critical to a project’s success. As an active member of the Dispute Resolution Board Foundation, Mr. Smith is a trained DRB member and Chairperson.

For over twenty-six years, I was a trial lawyer dedicated to the construction industry. My practice concentrated on construction law and federal, state and local government contract law. I counseled my clients on prevention and litigation of construction law and government contract disputes. I represented construction and service contractors, owners, subcontractors and suppliers on federal, state, and local projects, as well as private contractors on issues including bidding, bid protests, differing site conditions, changes, loss of productivity, delays and terminations. I represented client interests in hundreds of trials, arbitrations, and mediations from Maine to Florida. I have lectured and written extensively on construction law topics. 

Recently, I was the Chief Operating Officer of a national retail developer. As COO, I was responsible for overseeing all facets of a national commercial real estate development firm including land acquisition, site development, leasing and property management, and litigation. 

I started my legal career in the United States Army JAG Corps. As a Brigade Trial Counsel, I advised commanders and taught new soldiers about the UCMJ and prosecuted those who committed crimes. I was also a Special Assistant United States Attorney responsible for prosecuting civilians who committed crimes on post. 

As a jack-of-all-trades, I enjoy fitness activities including tennis, pickleball, weightlifting, swimming, kayaking, scuba diving and walking. My wife and I enjoy international travel to destinations unknown. I volunteer with The Greatest Commandment, serving the homeless and underprivileged members of the Orlando community.