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.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Litigation: Specialist Firms in White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations - New York

3
Band 3

What the Team is Known For

Clark Smith Villazor LLP is a respected boutique established by a strong group of former SDNY officials. Notable track record representing individuals in high-profile criminal trials, as well as domestic and international DOJ and SEC investigations involving a wide array of criminal allegations.

Work Highlights

  • Clark Smith Villazor LLP represented Richard Heart and three software programs he conceived of, in an enforcement action filed by the SEC in EDNY, alleging the client unlawfully offered and sold unregistered 'crypto asset securities' and committed fraud.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

Christopher J Clark
2
Christopher J Clark
2
Band 2
Christopher Clark regularly handles complex high-stakes criminal defense matters arising from the financial services sector, drawing on impressive government and private practice experience.

Christopher Clarke is a brilliant lawyer.

Chris is a really outstanding lawyer; he is fantastic.

Patrick J Smith
2
Patrick J Smith
2
Band 2
Patrick Smith is particularly noted for his trial work, offering significant experience handling proceedings for individuals facing all manner of criminal allegations.

He can successfully perform maneuvers that others can only stand back and envy.

Pat is superb. He is responsive, creative and pragmatic.

Pay answers quickly and makes clients feel valued. The way he gets the subject matter makes him stand out.

Rodney Villazor
4
Rodney Villazor
4
Band 4
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 spectacular. He is very hard-working and diligent.

Rodney is tremendous. He is extremely client-focused.

Ranked Lawyers at
Clark Smith Villazor LLP

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

New York

Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations

Christopher J Clark
2
Christopher J Clark
2
Band 2
Patrick J Smith
2
Patrick J Smith
2
Band 2
Rodney Villazor
4
Rodney Villazor
4
Band 4

Members

Provided by Clark Smith Villazor LLP

Industries

Provided by Clark Smith Villazor LLP

Financial Services

Life Sciences