Nanci A. Smith

Nanci A. Smith is a Vermont family law lawyer who works exclusively in family law after decades of litigation experience. Her practice at Nanci A. Smith, Esq. PLLC, focuses on collaborative divorce, collaborative mediation, prenuptial agreements, and consultation services for people facing difficult family transitions. She brings experience from civil litigation, criminal litigation, family law, legal aid work, domestic violence advocacy, and mental health commitment proceedings. That background supports sensitive matters with careful judgment, patience, and focus.

Nanci earned a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of California, San Diego. She received a J.D. from VT Law School (Vermont Law School). She also completed a master’s degree in the Study of Environmental Law there. Her education supports analysis, negotiation, and client counseling in family matters where emotions, finances, parenting concerns, and long-term stability often intersect. That training helps clients seek durable, informed choices during separation, divorce, mediation, and collaborative planning.

Nanci has practiced law since 1992 and began solo private practice in 2005. Her work includes advanced training in collaborative divorce, mediation, negotiation, collaboration, and leadership. She teaches family law seminars for the Vermont Bar Association and the National Business Institute. She has also represented children as counsel or guardian ad litem when appointed by courts in matters requiring independent attention and careful advocacy during highly personal family court disputes.

Nanci A. Smith is admitted in Vermont and New York and belongs to the Vermont Bar Association and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. Her leadership includes service as Past-President of Vermont Legal Aid and Legal Services of Vermont trustees, and Chair of the Vermont Bar Association Collaborative Section. She helps clients pursue successful outcomes through preparation, respectful problem solving, and steady guidance in family law disputes and mediation processes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Nanci A. Smith, Esq. PLLC
• Chair, Vermont Bar Association, Collaborative Section
• Member, New York State Bar Association
• Member, Collaborative Practice Vermont, Interdisciplinary Practice Group

Licensed State

• Vermont
• New York

Education

Awards & Badges