We believe in:

• Solid long-term relationships with the top local and national experts in multiple fields including medical, mechanical and electrical engineering, accident reconstruction, biomechanics, toxicology, economics, rehabilitation, structured settlements, construction, and industrial accident prevention, among other areas.
• Judicious use of non-attorney staff to boost cost efficiency.
• Electronic filing in trial and appellate courts.
• The importance of electronic and paper research.
• Electronic billing.

Howie & Smith, LLP realizes that today's legal clients seek assurance as well as closure, and we provide honest, comprehensive assessments on a personal level. Howie & Smith, LLP is large enough to handle complex defense matters involving extensive facts and numerous legal theories, yet small enough to interact with the client on a one-to-one basis. We understand that the civil litigation process can be an arduous and expensive and work to forge a partnership with our clients in working toward a unified goal. We believe this serves to enhance client trust -- our most important asset.

Our practice includes trial and appellate advocacy, client counseling, and transactional services. The firm and its lawyers hold active memberships with the American Bar Association Product Liability and Torts and Insurance Practice sections, Association of Defense Counsel, the Defense Research Institute and the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce.

The firm's overall objective is to obtain the best legal solutions which are responsive to our clients' business objectives.

Philosophy

Howie & Smith, LLP offers clients the advantages of dealing with lawyers who are highly experienced in counseling and litigation. At the same time, clients enjoy the personal attention and focused quality of a smaller practice. The firm's lawyers are trained to provide the highest standard of professional service while making judicious use of legal resources. The object is to practice law in a way that adds significant value to the client's business. We achieve this through careful selection and hands-on training of our young lawyers; thoughtful, business-goal driven strategic planning in partnership with our clients; and cost-effective, well-considered use of firm and client resources.

History

Robert G. Howie founded Howie & Smith, LLP in 1996. At that time, Mr. Howie had practiced for twenty years in large Bay Area defense firms, from Owen & Melbye to Rohlff, Howie & Frischholz. Audrey Smith began practicing law in December 1995 and joined the firm at its outset. Mr. Howie and Ms. Smith share a dedication to the highest standards of professional conduct and service, and the development of client relationships based upon mutual trust. Since the firm was founded, new associate attorneys have been brought on board, each adding unique skills and background while sharing the commitment to excellence in litigation.

Community Service

The firm is a longtime and active supporter of local public television and radio. Mr. Howie is a charter member of the community Board of Directors for the Interfaith Hospitality Network of San Mateo County and Executive Director of the congregation effort. This ecumenical organization works to provide shelter for the homeless using spaces at local parish halls and synagogues.