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 favorable 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. The case involves intricate issues of contract interpretation, delay claims, and enforcement of performance bonds.

In a recent matter, we advised a private hospital in Lagos that faced a lawsuit over alleged medical negligence. Our legal strategy focused on expert evidence, procedural objections, and a successful motion to strike out defective claims, saving the client from prolonged litigation and reputational harm.

One of our partners was involved in the litigation team that defended a major Nigerian bank in a class-action suit filed by disgruntled shareholders following a corporate restructuring. The legal issues included breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation, and valuation disputes. The case was resolved in the bank’s favor through aggressive discovery and mediation.

We also recently secured judgment in favor of a client in a land dispute involving conflicting titles in Abuja. Our team’s 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.

At Smith & Partners LP, we understand that litigation is not just about legal principles—it’s about people, property, and livelihoods. We commit to providing efficient, effective, and results-oriented legal solutions tailored to the specific goals of our clients.

Criminal litigation

Criminal litigation demands a blend of legal expertise, procedural precision, and strategic defense. 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 offenses and regulatory breaches. Our firm approaches criminal cases with discretion, diligence, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

Our attorneys possess a strong background in criminal trial advocacy and appellate work. One of our partners was previously on the legal defense 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 applications for bail, and preparing the defense strategy for trial.

Our firm also provides legal representation in criminal cases involving cybercrime, financial fraud, money laundering, arms trafficking, sexual offenses, and drug-related crimes. We have defended clients in EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, and NAPTIP matters—ensuring due process and protecting fundamental rights throughout the investigation and trial process.

In one of our recent briefs, we advised a foreign expatriate arrested for alleged immigration fraud and passport violations. Our team worked closely with the Nigeria Immigration Service to secure a withdrawal of charges based on lack of prosecutable evidence and procedural irregularities during arrest.

Our criminal litigation team is also skilled in preparing petitions for human rights violations arising from unlawful arrest, detention, and abuse of prosecutorial powers. We have brought actions against enforcement authorities and successfully obtained declarations, compensation orders, and judicial reprimands.

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 defense.