Derrick Smith Named Managing Director of Mitchell Williams

UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law alum Derrick W. Smith has been named managing director of Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Smith joined the firm following his graduation from Bowen Law in 2000 and has since served in a range of leadership roles, including chair of the Regulated Business Practice Group and as a member of the firm’s board of directors. In his new role, he will work with the board to guide the firm’s strategic direction and oversee operations.

His legal practice focuses on insurance regulatory law and government relations, advising clients on regulatory compliance, legislative matters, and interactions with insurance departments and government officials at the state and federal levels.

Smith has been recognized multiple times by The Best Lawyers in America and was named 2026 Arkansas “Lawyer of the Year” in Government Relations.

He earned his Juris Doctor with honors from UA Little Rock’s Bowen School of Law and holds a bachelor’s degree in American studies from Hendrix College.