Almuhtada Smith

Almuhtada Smith is the principal attorney at ARS IP Law Firm, P.C., also known as ARS Counsel.12 With over a decade of experience, he specializes in complex transactional matters, providing counsel to start-up enterprises, entertainment professionals, venture-backed companies, and family-owned businesses.1 His areas of expertise include intellectual property, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, licensing, e-commerce, securities compliance, and corporate governance.12

Background and Education

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, Smith overcame poverty through education and determination.1 He graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Morehouse College with a bachelor's degree in business administration.1 He then earned his J.D. from UCLA School of Law, where he served as the chief managing editor of the Entertainment Law Review.1

Career Highlights

• Spent nearly five years at corporate law firm Jenner & Block before founding ARS IP Law Firm, P.C.1
• Selected for the 2021 Southern California Rising Stars list, an honor reserved for only 2.5% of Southern California attorneys1
• Represents a wide range of clients, including media companies, emerging technology firms, fashion and beauty companies, authors, and individual artists12

Community Involvement

Smith is dedicated to community service and social change.1 He serves on the board of directors for the Los Angeles Southwest College Foundation, where he has been Chairman of the Board since 2018.1 He is also a lifetime member of the John M. Langston Bar Association and previously served on its board of directors as treasurer.1

Personal Interests

Outside of his legal practice and philanthropic work, Smith enjoys the arts, live music, and attending sporting events.12