Department profile
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations
USA Guide 2026 : New York
Rankings
Ranked Individuals
Ranked Individuals
About
Provided by Clark Smith Villazor LLP
Clark Smith Villazor LLP is a boutique litigation firm in New York City founded by former federal prosecutors that has, at the core of its mission, represented individuals in government investigations. Among other distinguishing factors, founding partners Chris Clark, Patrick Smith and Rodney Villazor have between them tried more than 50 cases to verdict. From major criminal cases to complex commercial disputes, Smith Villazor LLP has a depth of trial experience that many larger law firms lack. Clark Smith Villazor LLP is a “go to” firm for clients in the highest profile investigations in the country to defend in government and regulatory investigations. Clark Smith Villazor LLP also represents investment funds and corporate clients looking for conflict-free representation in complex civil litigation.
Industries (2)
- Financial Services
- Life Sciences
Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Work Highlights
Provided by Chambers
Clark Smith Villazor LLP represented Amit Dagar, a former Pfizer employee accused of insider trading.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
They are organised, proactive and communicate well. They make complex scenarios easy to understand.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSAThey were all very adept and extremely knowledgeable.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSAClark Smith Villazor brings a very personal touch to their representation.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSA
Notable Practitioners
Provided by Chambers
Band 2 
Band 2 Christopher J Clark
Christopher Clark regularly handles complex high-stakes criminal defense matters arising from the financial services sector, drawing on impressive government and private practice experience. Chris is incredibly smart, has great judgment and writes beautifully. He has all the qualities you want.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSAChris cuts right through the issues. He is very savvy and incredibly astute in identifying how the legal issues impact commercial issues.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSA
Band 2 
Band 2 Patrick J Smith
Patrick Smith is particularly noted for his trial work, offering significant experience handling proceedings for individuals facing all manner of criminal allegations. Pat is very sharp and shrewd. He thinks in advance and anticipates strengths and weaknesses well.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSA
Band 4 
Band 4 Rodney Villazor
Rodney Villazor provides individuals and companies with representation in a range of criminal and civil proceedings. His experience includes cases involving allegations of financial fraud. Rodney is excellent. He is able to handle very complex matters and is very client-friendly.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSARodney provides excellent responsiveness, attention and judgment.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSAHe is a calm, measured and personable individual.
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations respondentUSA
Ranked Individuals at Clark Smith Villazor LLP (3)
New York
Christopher J Clark
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations
View profile Patrick J Smith
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations
View profile Rodney Villazor
Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations
View profile
Members
Provided by Clark Smith Villazor LLP
Christopher J Clark
View profile of Christopher J ClarkRodney Villazor
View profile of Rodney VillazorPatrick J Smith
View profile of Patrick J Smith
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