Mary Dohner Smith

Labor and Employment

Class/Collective Actions

Employment Litigation Prevention & Defense

Investigations

Wage and Hour Compliance & Litigation

Mary leads the firm’s Nashville office and represents employers in all aspects of the employment relationship.

She defends clients in complex litigation involving claims under Title VII, the ADA, ADEA, FLSA, and USERRA, as well as state law claims including breach of contract, fraud, negligence, and emotional distress. Mary’s litigation experience spans federal and state courts and includes a wide range of workplace issues, from discrimination and retaliation to wage and hour disputes and wrongful termination claims.

Mary is a Tennessee Supreme Court designated Rule 31 Mediator. With a background in human resources in both union and non-union settings, Mary approaches legal challenges with a practical mindset and a strong focus on early issue resolution. She works closely with employers to address workplace concerns proactively and minimize the risk of litigation. Mary regularly provides training and speaks on employment law topics, including military re-employment rights under USERRA, workplace harassment prevention, and termination best practices.

Mary’s dual experience in legal practice and HR operations allows her to deliver legal advice that aligns with business needs. She supports clients through internal investigations, compliance assessments, and policy development, particularly in fast-moving or high-risk employment situations. Her commitment to clear communication and long-term solutions makes her a trusted advisor to both in-house counsel and HR professionals.

American Bar Association, Trial, Tort & Insurance Practice Section

Tennessee Bar Association

Nashville Bar Association

Lawyers’ Association for Women, Marion Griffin Chapter

Mary enjoys spending her free time with her husband, Travis, and their two children. As a family, they enjoy traveling, scuba diving, hiking, camping and cheering for Army football. Mary also enjoys reading and cooking.

Marquette University Law School

J.D.

2001

mployment Law – Management, Labor Law – Management, Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants and Litigation - Labor and Employment

The Best Lawyers in America

2026

"Lawyer of the Year" for Litigation - Labor and Employment in Nashville, TN for Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions - Defendants

The Best Lawyers in America®

2021

Best of the Bar

Nashville Business Journal

2017

Mid-South Super Lawyers®

2022