About
Gerald M. Smith, Jr. is a Connecticut attorney Chinigo, Leone & Maruzo LLP, at whose practice focuses mainly on business law, residential and commercial real estate matters. He represents individuals, businesses, and local lenders in property transactions and helps clients address the legal details involved in purchases, sales, financing, and related agreements. His broader practice includes commercial leases, business formation, asset sales, general corporate matters, and estate planning.
Mr. Smith earned a B.A. in political science from The Johns Hopkins University in 1988. After college, he worked for a large law firm in Baltimore before returning to Connecticut. He later graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1993 and was admitted to the Connecticut Bar that same year.
Mr. Smith returned to Norwich and worked with another law office for several years after entering practice. He joined his current practice in May 2001 and has continued serving clients in eastern Connecticut. His real estate work covers transactions involving homes, commercial properties, business interests, and lending arrangements. He assists clients with reviewing documents, structuring agreements, and identifying legal concerns that may affect a transaction.
Mr. Smith also advises entrepreneurs and established companies on selecting and forming business entities, including corporations and LLCs. His commercial work extends to lease negotiations, business asset sales, and general legal guidance for ongoing operations. In estate planning matters, he helps individuals prepare for the future and organize important personal and financial decisions.
Gerald M. Smith, Jr., a Norwich native, has maintained strong ties to the local community throughout his career. His civic involvement has included service with the Three Rivers College Foundation, Norwich Arts Council, Norwich Community Cinema Foundation, Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, and Otis Library. His professional work reflects practical knowledge, careful preparation, and a continuing commitment to the community where he began his legal career.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, Chinigo, Leone & Maruzo LLP
- Member, Connecticut Bar Association
Licensed State
- Connecticut
Education
- University of Connecticut School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Johns Hopkins University
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges

- Business Litigation
- Corporate & Incorporation
- Equipment Finance & Leasing
- Franchise, Dealership & Partnership
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Professional Liability
- Probate
- Trusts
- Wills & Living Wills
- Insurance Claims
- Insurance Defense
- Commercial Real Estate
- Residential Real Estate
- Debt & Lending




