About
J. Christopher Smith is a respected civil rights lawyer with a broad practice that includes personal injury, estate planning, bankruptcy, property law, and mass tort settlement administration. Based in Hoover, Alabama, Christopher brings over two decades of experience to cases involving civil disputes, consumer protection, collections, and domestic relations.
Christopher earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, cum laude, from the University of Alabama in 1996, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. He went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1999. There, he was named to Who’s Who Among American Law Students, joined the Bench and Bar Legal Honor Society, and received the American Bankruptcy Institute Medal of Excellence.
Christopher spent a decade practicing law in Tuscaloosa before joining Gentle Turner & Benson, LLC in 2010. With extensive trial experience and strategic legal insight, he represents clients in a broad range of civil and criminal matters. His strong commitment to justice and client-focused advocacy underscores his dedication to both private and public legal service.
As part of his diverse practice, Christopher handles estate planning, family law, collections, landlord-tenant disputes, and probate law. His knowledge across multiple disciplines enables him to serve clients with complex legal needs while ensuring their rights are protected and their outcomes are maximized.
J. Christopher Smith is a member of the Alabama State Bar and continues to deliver reliable, informed legal counsel to clients throughout the state. As a civil rights lawyer and general practice attorney, Christopher remains committed to guiding individuals through difficult legal situations with professionalism and care.
Law Office Affiliations
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Partner, Gentle Turner & Benson, LLC
- Member, Alabama State Bar
Licensed State
- Alabama
Education
- University of Alabama School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Alabama
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Awards & Badges

- Banking & Finance
- Landlord & Tenant
- Litigation




