Robert Kingsley Smith
Partner
Robert Kingsley Smith focuses his practice on complex commercial and securities class action litigation, regulatory enforcement actions, internal investigations and criminal defense. Mr. Smith has represented public companies and their officers in federal and state litigation, federal and state enforcement actions, and federal and state regulatory investigations. Mr. Smith also maintains an active pro bono appellate practice, representing various nonprofit entities in state and federal appellate court, and veterans before the US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. Mr. Smith has also assisted with the CJA-appointed defense of a transnational gang member in a criminal RICO prosecution.
Mr. Smith rejoined the firm after completing a clerkship for the Honorable Christopher F. Droney of the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. During law school, Mr. Smith served as a judicial intern for the Honorable William I. Garfinkel of the US District Court for the District of Connecticut.
Professional Activities
Mr. Smith is admitted to practice in Massachusetts and before the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts, the US Court of Appeals for the First and Ninth Circuits, and the US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
Experience
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Defending pharmaceutical, medical device, financial services, and communications companies in Securities Exchange Act class actions through motions to dismiss, motions for class certification, mediation, and settlement.
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Defending underwriters and auditors in Securities Act class action litigation through motions to dismiss and on appeal.
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Defending life insurance companies in sales practices litigation and consumer protection and breach of contract class actions.
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Defending a financial services company in consumer and ERISA fiduciary class actions.
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Defending an insurance company in accelerated arbitration regarding contractual dispute with investment partner.
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Defending financial services and communications companies in enforcement actions brought by the SEC, state securities regulators, and state attorneys general.
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Representing various companies with sensitive internal investigations.
Recognition
- Selected by peers for inclusion in the 2021–2024 editions of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for securities litigation.
- Named a "Massachusetts Super Lawyers Rising Star" in the area of securities litigation in 2018–2021.
Insights & News
Credentials
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Education
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JD, University of Michigan Law School, 2011
magna cum laude Order of the Coif -
BA, History, Yale University, 2006
with distinction
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Admissions
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Massachusetts
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Clerkships
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The Hon. Christopher F. Droney, US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, 2013 - 2014
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Credentials
-
Education
-
JD, University of Michigan Law School, 2011
magna cum laude Order of the Coif -
BA, History, Yale University, 2006
with distinction
-
-
Admissions
-
Massachusetts
-
-
Clerkships
-
The Hon. Christopher F. Droney, US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, 2013 - 2014
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