Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Litigation Partner in Summit, NJ
Smith + Schwartzstein is a litigation-first law firm dedicated to fierce advocacy and results-driven representation. With decades of experience in employment law, personal injury, civil rights, and business litigation, we fight for individuals and businesses in high-stakes legal disputes across New Jersey and New York. Our attorneys are known for their aggressive courtroom strategies, strategic negotiations, and relentless commitment to justice. We focus on trial advocacy, complex litigation, and aggressive legal strategies to win cases. Every client receives personalized attention, transparent communication, and a results-driven approach.From workplace discrimination to catastrophic injury cases and civil rights violations, we fight for those who need it most. Our mission is to deliver uncompromising legal advocacy that gets results. We take on powerful corporations, fight employment discrimination, secure high-value settlements, and challenge government overreach. With a track record of recovering millions for clients, we combine large-firm sophistication with personalized service.
Services
Employment Law
Civil Rights Litigation
Personal Injury
Business Disputes
Construction Law
Wrongful Termination
Workplace Discrimination
Sexual Harassment
Wage & Hour Violations
Whistleblower Protection
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- Over 15 years of experience in litigation across NJ & NY
- Track record of recovering millions for clients
- Aggressive courtroom advocacy and strategic negotiation
- Recognized in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Dedicated to personalized client attention and transparent communication
Associations and certifications
- Best Lawyers
- Super Lawyers
What people say
Exceptional legal expertise
Kept me updated
Resolved my case quickly
Caring professional
Highly recommend
Services
Employment Law Litigation
We defend employees facing workplace discrimination, harassment, and wage theft. Our firm handles wrongful termination, retaliation, and whistleblower cases with aggressive legal strategies. Clients benefit from our litigation-first approach and deep understanding of federal and state employment laws.
Civil Rights Litigation
Our team fights for justice in cases involving police misconduct, jail abuse, and constitutional violations. We represent clients in federal and state courts, holding powerful institutions accountable. Our experience includes high-profile cases with significant recoveries for victims of government overreach.
Personal Injury
We advocate for clients injured due to negligence, including car accidents and medical malpractice. Our firm pursues maximum compensation for medical costs and lost wages. With a focus on trial preparation, we ensure insurance companies take our clients' claims seriously.
Business Disputes
Our attorneys resolve complex business conflicts involving contracts, fraud, and trade secrets. We represent clients in state and federal courts, prioritizing strategic outcomes that protect financial interests. Services include arbitration, mediation, and courtroom litigation.
Construction Law
We handle construction disputes for contractors, developers, and property owners. Our services include breach of contract claims, defect litigation, and mechanics lien enforcement. Our team combines industry knowledge with litigation expertise to protect clients' investments.
People
Andrew B. Smith
Partner
Andrew focuses on civil litigation with 15+ years of experience. He co-founded Smith + Schwartzstein in 2009 and has recovered millions for clients in complex cases. Admitted in NJ, NY, and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
Kathryn Schwartzstein
Partner
Kathryn specializes in employment law and civil rights litigation. She has secured favorable outcomes for clients in high-stakes cases. Recognized in Super Lawyers, she combines aggressive advocacy with personalized client service.
Janell DeGennaro
Of Counsel
Janell brings expertise in business litigation and commercial disputes. With a focus on contract enforcement and fraud claims, she provides strategic legal solutions for corporate clients and executives.
Jason Halper
Of Counsel
Jason specializes in construction law and personal injury cases. He represents contractors and property owners in complex litigation, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the construction process.
Hector Melecio
Paralegal
Hector supports the litigation team with case management and client communication. His attention to detail ensures smooth operations for high-volume legal proceedings.
Questions
What types of cases do you handle?
We specialize in employment law, civil rights, personal injury, business disputes, and construction litigation. Our firm represents individuals and businesses in high-stakes legal matters across New Jersey and New York.
What should I expect in my lawsuit?
Your attorney will gather information, handle paperwork, and guide you through each step. Most cases involve evidence exchange and settlement negotiations, with trials if necessary. We keep you informed throughout the process.
How does contingency-based pricing work?
You pay no upfront fees. We only receive payment if we win your case, taking a percentage of the settlement or award. This ensures access to legal representation without financial risk.
How do I start a case with your firm?
Contact us for a consultation to discuss your case. If we proceed, you'll sign an agreement and our team will begin working on your case immediately, providing step-by-step guidance.
Are you available for emergency legal situations?
While we prioritize urgent matters, we recommend contacting us as soon as possible to discuss your specific needs and schedule a consultation.
