Civil Litigation
Civil litigation is at the heart of legal advocacy, and at Smith & Partners LP, we deliver strategic representation in a wide range of civil disputes. Our firm is known for its meticulous preparation, persuasive advocacy, and commitment to achieving favourable outcomes — whether through court proceedings, negotiation, or alternative dispute resolution.
Our practice covers contractual disputes, tortious claims, breach of fiduciary duties, land and property matters, personal injury claims, negligence, defamation, insurance claims, and commercial recovery. Our team comprises seasoned litigators who have successfully handled complex matters before all levels of courts in Nigeria, including appellate courts.
We are currently representing a multinational construction firm in a ₦1.8 billion contractual dispute arising from a terminated infrastructure project with a state government — involving intricate issues of contract interpretation, delay claims, and enforcement of performance bonds.
We recently secured judgment in favour of a client in a land dispute involving conflicting titles in Abuja. Our approach involved a successful summary judgment application and enforcement of court orders that restored our client's legal possession of the property.
Our civil litigation department is experienced in urgent matters requiring interim reliefs, injunctions, Mareva orders, Anton Piller orders, and enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards. We are equally skilled in appellate advocacy, having filed and argued appeals that have set precedents in Nigerian jurisprudence.
Criminal Litigation
Criminal litigation demands a blend of legal expertise, procedural precision, and strategic defence. At Smith & Partners LP, we represent individuals, corporate entities, and government bodies in a broad range of criminal matters — from white-collar crime and fraud to capital offences and regulatory breaches. Our firm approaches criminal cases with discretion, diligence, and a deep understanding of Nigeria's criminal justice system.
Our team has a strong background in criminal trial advocacy and appellate work. One of our partners was previously on the legal defence team in a high-profile financial crimes trial involving executives of a major Nigerian corporation — working on case theory development, evidence suppression motions, and cross-examination of forensic experts.
We are currently acting for a logistics company executive accused of complicity in the diversion of sensitive goods in breach of national security regulations. Our representation includes pre-trial advisory, liaising with investigative agencies, filing bail applications, and preparing the defence strategy for trial.
Our firm also provides representation in criminal cases involving cybercrime, financial fraud, money laundering, arms trafficking, sexual offences, and drug-related crimes. We have defended clients in EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, and NAPTIP matters — ensuring due process and protecting fundamental rights throughout investigation and trial.
At Smith & Partners LP, we understand the reputational, personal, and professional risks involved in criminal allegations. We act swiftly to protect our clients' interests, challenge irregular procedures, and uphold the right to a fair trial. Whether you are facing investigation, have been charged, or require post-conviction relief, our firm offers unwavering and intelligent criminal defence.
Key Matters & Experience
₦1.8 Billion Infrastructure Dispute
Representing a multinational construction firm in a ₦1.8 billion contractual dispute with a state government, involving contract interpretation, delay claims, and performance bond enforcement.
Medical Negligence Defence
Advised a private Lagos hospital facing a medical negligence lawsuit — strategy focused on expert evidence, procedural objections, and a successful motion to strike out defective claims, avoiding prolonged litigation.
Bank Shareholder Class-Action
Defended a major Nigerian bank in a shareholder class-action following corporate restructuring. Issues included breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation, and valuation disputes — resolved in the bank's favour through discovery and mediation.
High-Profile Financial Crimes Trial
Part of the legal defence team in a high-profile financial crimes trial involving executives of a major Nigerian corporation — case theory, evidence suppression motions, and forensic expert cross-examination.
EFCC, ICPC & Regulatory Defence
Representation in EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, and NAPTIP matters — ensuring due process, protecting fundamental rights throughout investigation and trial, and securing charge withdrawals based on procedural irregularities.
Immigration Fraud Defence
Advised a foreign expatriate arrested for alleged immigration fraud and passport violations — working with the Nigeria Immigration Service to secure a withdrawal of charges based on lack of prosecutable evidence and procedural irregularities.
