Representing Floridians For Over 50 Years

When Bill Avera (1927 – 2009) began practicing law more than 50 years ago, he set the high standards of practice that have made Avera & Smith the successful firm that it is today.

A tradition of family strength, professional excellence, client service, and commitment to the community.

Though the firm has grown significantly in the past 50 years in both size and range of influence, Avera & Smith is not a “mega” firm that practices in all arenas of law. We concentrate our practice in personal injury law on behalf of the plaintiff, but also practice criminal defense, employment law, and business litigation. We believe that the firm’s more than five decades of experience in personal injury law provide a significant advantage to our clients, and our firm will continue to operate as it has for more than 50 years: by providing caring, quality service from experienced and qualified attorneys, a remarkable support staff, and state-of-the-art supporting technology.

The strength of family has always been one of Avera & Smith’s most important foundations. Bill Avera’s sons, Mark Avera and Lance Avera, are now partners in the firm. Rod Smith, former state senator and longtime friend is also a partner. Rod’s son, Jesse Smith, is an attorney with the firm. Avera cousin, Jennifer Biewend, Attorney, has made the firm her career. Providing decades of service and dedication, attorneys Dawn Vallejos-Nichols and Marian Lee have long been important contributors to the success of the firm and its tradition of family.

Avera & Smith is also proud to have an excellent support staff, many of whom have been with the firm for many years. They not only support the attorneys, but serve in the critical role of first point of contact with clients. They are the essential backbone of the firm, and contribute immeasurable support towards its success.

Avera & Smith’s tradition of excellence is also evidenced by its strong belief in giving back to the community with both money and time committed to charitable events, education, and other types of community activity.