Alex J. Smith represents clients in a broad range of litigation related to commercial and residential real estate in Washington, D.C.
She advises clients on contract disputes, Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) matters, D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act (CPPA) matters, bankruptcy and post-judgment collections, D.C. matters before the D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), housing discrimination claims, ADA reasonable accommodation issues, and related matters.
Alex represents commercial landlords across the full spectrum of landlord-tenant disputes, including lease and guaranty enforcement and representation of creditors in bankruptcy matters. She also counsels residential landlords and property managers on eviction matters arising from non-monetary lease violations, including dangerous or disruptive behavior, illegal activity, and property damage.
In addition, Alex represents residential landlords and property managers in investigations, mediations, and litigation initiated by the D.C. Office of the Attorney General (OAG). She responds to OAG inquiries and complaints by quickly assembling documentation, addressing issues, and guiding clients through each stage of the process.
An organized and detail-oriented attorney, Alex is highly responsive at every stage of the litigation process – from fact investigation and case strategy to dispositive motions and discovery. She is skilled at managing large amounts of documentation and leveraging technology to efficiently extract, analyze, and present compelling evidence in support of her clients’ cases. Alex is also well regarded for her adaptability and emotional intelligence.
Prior to joining the firm, she served as a judicial law clerk at the D.C. Superior Court and interned for two judges. Her experience in chambers provided valuable insight into judicial process, norms, and expectations. She brings this perspective, along with a strong commitment to client service, to resolve matters in a practice and effective manner.
Representative Matters
Represented a property manager in an evidentiary hearing before the D.C. OAH, formulating a strong defense strategy and successfully negotiating a favorable settlement.
Represented a property manager of a large Washington, D.C. multifamily residence in litigation related to the violation of the D.C. CPPA, developing a vigorous defense to leverage a favorable settlement with the D.C. OAG.
Represented a commercial landlord in Washington, D.C. in a complex civil dispute involving claims of breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and conversion, successfully securing a favorable settlement.
Represented a title company in a civil action alleging negligence, securing dismissal of the claim on a motion to dismiss.
Represented a property manager in eviction proceedings against a tenant for violating a lease by repeatedly damaging property, negotiating a settlement for expeditious move-out.
