Barbara Smith, Esq.—Co-Founder, Mediator, Legal Strategist
A Trusted Voice in Mediation, Conflict Resolution, and Community Leadership
Barbara Smith, Esq., is more than a highly accomplished attorney and mediator—she’s a steady presence for clients navigating some of the most emotional and complex moments in their personal or professional lives.
As the co-founder and partner of Smith Mediation Center, Barbara brings over 25 years of legal and judicial experience to her practice. She has served as an administrative law judge, district court magistrate, arbitrator, and mediator—as well as a long-standing advocate for peaceful, cost-effective conflict resolution.
Known for her calm demeanor, deep compassion, and grounded legal insight, Barbara is a go-to advisor for individuals, families, business owners, and legal professionals across Michigan and beyond.
📧 Email Barbara directly: bsmith@smithworkforce.com
📞 Or call the Smith Mediation Center at (248) 646-8000.
Legal Experience Rooted in Integrity and Empathy
Barbara’s career spans multiple sectors of the legal system. Her work has focused on general civil litigation, domestic relations, and alternative dispute resolution, where she’s built a reputation for helping parties reach fair, balanced, and mutually agreeable outcomes—even when emotions run high.
She is currently a court-approved domestic relations mediator and has guided hundreds of clients through mediation and coaching with clarity and care.
Her legal experience includes:
- Over 25 years practicing law
- Domestic and civil litigation
- Divorce and family law mediation
- Judicial and administrative appointments
- Arbitration and dispute resolution
Barbara believes that conflict is not the end—it’s an opportunity for resolution and transformation. That belief drives every session, every case, and every client relationship she nurtures.
A Background in Leadership, Education, and Service
Barbara’s leadership extends beyond the courtroom. She has served as:
- President of Michigan Malpractice Mediators, Inc.
- Chairperson of the Attorney Grievance Commission
- Appointee to the Michigan Gaming Control Board
She has also spent years mentoring young professionals and teaching in community legal programs, giving back to the same systems that shaped her. As a business owner, legal advisor, and mother of three, Barbara knows the pressures people face—and how much clarity and confidence a trusted professional can bring.
Her rare combination of legal knowledge, practical experience, and emotional intelligence makes her not only a skilled mediator but also a compassionate guide.
Education and Professional Affiliations
Education
- J.D., Thomas M. Cooley Law School
- B.A., Michigan State University
Bar Memberships and Credentials
- Member, State Bar of Michigan
- Member, Oakland County Bar Association (OCBA)
- Court-Approved Mediator
- Fellow, Michigan State Bar Foundation
Barbara continues to remain active in both legal and community circles, advocating for peaceful solutions, accessible mediation, and equitable legal outcomes for all.
Appointments and Public Service Roles
Barbara Smith’s legal credibility has earned her appointments to major judicial and administrative positions, including
- Administrative Law Judge, Michigan
- District Court Magistrate
- Chairperson, Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission
- Board Member, Michigan Gaming Control Board
These roles reflect the depth of trust and respect she’s earned throughout her legal career—and her ongoing commitment to ethical, community-centered law.
Approach to Mediation and Conflict Resolution
Barbara is known for her "diplomacy, not war" philosophy—a mindset that guides every session she leads. Clients describe her as grounded, approachable, and firm when needed, but always focused on creating forward momentum.
She helps people:
- Communicate with clarity and confidence
- Make difficult decisions with dignity
- Avoid costly and emotionally draining litigation
- Protect their families, businesses, and well-being
- Find common ground during conflict
Whether she’s working with divorcing couples, siblings navigating elder care, or business owners trying to prevent internal breakdowns, Barbara is always working toward one goal:
resolution that honors everyone involved.
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Contact Barbara Smith, Esq.
If you’re seeking legal guidance that prioritizes peace, clarity, and fairness—Barbara Smith is ready to support you.
📧 Email: bsmith@smithworkforce.com
📞 Phone: (248) 646-8000
📍 Based in Michigan, serving clients nationwide
💬 Start your consultation via our Contact Page.
