Peter A. Smit

Litigation - Banking and Finance

3.0 (1 reviews)

Grand Rapids, Michigan

48+ years experience

Varnum LLP

Updated: Jan 03, 2026

Contact Information

616-336-6000

https://www.varnumlaw.com/people/peter-a-smit

Bridgewater Place, Suite 1700, 333 Bridge Street, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

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Bio

Peter is a trial attorney with a focus on business litigation defense (FSLA, Product Liability Defense, Malpractice Defense) as well as significant experience in personal injury, wrongful death, auto and trucking litigation. Peter is certified in Alternative Dispute Resolution for practice in the U.S. District Court for Western District of Michigan and in Michigan circuit courts.

Practice Areas

Litigation - Banking and Finance

Awards & Recognition

Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - Intellectual Property, Grand Rapids (2022)
Recognized: Litigation - Banking and Finance
Recognized: Litigation - Intellectual Property
Recognized: Litigation - Labor and Employment
Recognized: Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
Practice Area: Commercial Litigation
Practice Area: Personal Injury Litigation
Practice Area: Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants
Named a leading Plaintiff's star in Michigan by Benchmark: Plaintiffs, 2012

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2013

Education

Wayne State University, J.D., graduated 1977
Calvin College, BA, graduated 1974

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Reviews

Stephanie Flores

2 weeks ago

Experienced and capable, but communication could be more consistent

I hired Peter Smit at Varnum to handle a complex business litigation matter for my small manufacturing company. We were facing a product liability claim that, while ultimately without merit, threatened significant disruption. Peter's deep experience was immediately evident. With nearly five decades in practice, his strategic approach to our defense was methodical and grounded in a clear understanding of Michigan law. His recognition in areas like intellectual property and banking litigation speaks to a respected reputation, and his calm, steady demeanor in our meetings was reassuring. The case was resolved favorably, which is the primary goal. However, the process itself felt somewhat detached at times. Responses to emails or calls could take several days, and updates often felt like they were on his schedule rather than being proactively communicated. While I never doubted his legal acumen or the quality of the firm's work, managing client expectations around timelines and communication seemed to be a secondary priority. For a straightforward matter where you simply need a competent veteran to handle it, Peter is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a pace and communication style that reflects a very established practice, and ensure you are clear about your need for regular updates from the outset.