Derrick W. Smith
Managing Director, Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard
A SKILL I NEVER EXPECTED TO USE IN THIS FIELD
Listening to understand rather than to respond. In my experience, viewing counterpoints as opportunities to learn rather than merely hurdles to be overcome, more often than not, leads to win-win solutions.
ONE THING I WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT MY COMPANY
Since our founding, Mitchell Williams has been singularly focused on providing excellent representation to our clients and serving the communities in which we live and work. We take our work very seriously. But we do not take ourselves that seriously.
BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED
Be on time. Be prepared. Be succinct.
NONPROFIT I WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT
Youth Home provides services to adolescents who have experienced severe trauma and subsequent mental health challenges. It is a wonderful organization serving families and their surrounding communities.
HOW I UNPLUG AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK
Exercising is what I should say, but I have found nothing beats sitting in a big chair with something to read and one or both of our Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR
The moment the attorneys who taught me how and what it means to actually practice offered me the opportunity to be one of their partners stands out.
MY FIRST JOB AND WHAT IT TAUGHT ME
My first real job was as a bagger for Food Giant. I learned a lot about quality customer service and punctuality. I also learned about responsibility and accountability within a team.
IN THE DETAILS:
Hometown: Marianna
Favorite Local Purchase: Anything from Baumans
Little Rock’s Hidden Gem: West Little Rock Farmers Market
Sunday Routine: Read a collection of newspapers while our dogs take their post-breakfast naps, go to church and have a late lunch with the family
Favorite Local Dish: Margherita pizza from Zaza 425 W. Capitol Ave., Little Rock 501.688.8800 mitchellwilliamslaw.com Facebook: Mitchell Williams Law Linkedin: Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C.
425 W. Capitol Ave., Little Rock | 501.688.8800
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