Douglas J. Smillie

Douglas J. Smillie is a respected litigation and bankruptcy attorney with decades of experience guiding clients through high-stakes lawsuits and disputes. As Co-Chair and shareholder of the Litigation & Trial Practice Group at Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, P.C., he focuses on commercial litigation, business conflicts, shareholder disputes, employment matters, non-competition and trade secret cases, media law, and creditors’ rights. He is known for handling complex cases from start to finish, helping companies and individuals protect their interests in court and through negotiation.

Mr. Smillie earned a B.A., cum laude, from Muhlenberg College and a J.D. from Villanova University School of Law, where he served as Editor of the Villanova Law Review. His strong academic background built the foundation for his detailed, research-driven approach to litigation and appellate work.

Mr. Smillie has helped clients throughout his career solve complex legal problems with clear strategies and strong courtroom advocacy. He has represented businesses in significant commercial disputes, protected creditors’ rights in bankruptcy matters, and resolved sensitive employment and trade secret cases. His reported decisions reflect a long list of victories in state and federal courts, including the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, Pennsylvania appellate courts, and multiple federal district courts. These decisions highlight his skill in addressing complex legal issues and creating favorable outcomes for clients in matters involving contracts, corporate governance, media law, and restructuring.

Douglas J. Smillie is active in many professional organizations, including the American Bankruptcy Institute, Commercial Law League of America, Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference, and multiple state and local bar associations. His work has earned recognition in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, Select Lawyers, and Top Attorneys lists. Through years of dedicated practice, he has built a reputation as a trusted advocate who helps clients navigate disputes with confidence and clarity.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder and Co-Chair, Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba
• Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
• Member, New Jersey State Bar Association, Bankruptcy Section
• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute
• Member, Turnaround Management Association
• Member, Commercial Law League of America
• Member, Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference
• Member, Pennsylvania Newspaper Association
• Member, Philadelphia Bar Association
• Member, Bar Association of Lehigh County
• Member, American Bar Association, Litigation Section

Licensed State

• Pennsylvania
• New Jersey

Education

• Villanova University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Muhlenberg College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges