Jarrod Smith is a member in Dickinson Wright's Lansing office, where his practice focuses on public finance, governmental policy and economic development law. Jarrod has extensive experience advising state and local issuers, as well as various underwriters and financial institutions in structuring and executing complex public finance transactions, leveraging his deep knowledge of governmental procedures and financial frameworks.
Prior to joining Dickinson Wright, Jarrod worked in public finance for over 20 years, initially as an Assistant Attorney General with the Michigan Attorney General's Office, and most recently as a member with a full-service national law firm. In these roles, he advised various state and local clients on a multitude of public finance and development initiatives, structuring and implementing sophisticated bond transactions and financing strategies. Jarrod has been instrumental in several landmark projects, including significant bond issuances that received national recognition for innovation and complexity.
With his comprehensive experience in public sector financing, Jarrod guides clients at Dickinson Wright through intricate transactional processes, helping them meet their financial objectives efficiently and effectively.
Education & Credentials
Education
Michigan State University College of Law
J.D.- cum laude
Michigan State University
B.S.Bar Admission
Acknowledgements
- Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business
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Public Finance, 2024
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Prominent Assignments
- Serves as Issuer’s and Bond Counsel for numerous State of Michigan entities, including the Department of Treasury, Department of Transportation, State Building Authority, Michigan Finance Authority, Michigan Strategic Fund and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.
- Represents a variety of municipal clients (including their authorities) for all types of financings, including Michigan’s capitol city, Lansing, and the City of Detroit Downtown Development Authority.
- Represents a range of underwriters and financial institutions in public finance transactions as Underwriter’s Counsel.
- Acted as General Counsel to the Michigan Strategic Fund, advising on financing structures and statutory compliance.
Professional Involvement
- Michigan Bar Association
- National Association of Bond Lawyers
- NABL Panelist
Community Involvement
- Trustee, Grand Ledge Public Schools Board of Education
- Church Membership Growth and Retention Committee Member