Norfolk

Ethan Smith

Attorney

Robert came to law as a second career committed to the idea that excellent skill, knowledge, and representation are not just a goal, but an absolute requirement.  As Managing Partner of KPM LAW’s Fairfax Office, Robert put together and manages an aggressive team of litigation professionals committed to aggressive, efficient and responsive promotion of client interests.

Robert focuses his practice on the defense of large loss and complex commercial and construction claims, contract disputes, professional and business liabilities, commercial transportation accidents, and premises liability, as well as insurance coverage analysis and litigation.  He has tried numerous cases in both state and federal courts and has successfully argued in the appellate courts of Virginia, Maryland and the Fourth Circuit.

After graduating from the University of Virginia, Robert received a full scholarship to study opera at the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia.  He sang for ten years on stages from the east coast to Chicago before returning to law school at the College of William and Mary, where he took second place in William Mary’s National Moot Court competition and was a member of the I’Anson-Hoffman Inns of Court.  Robert is happily married and also manages his boy-girl twins and a wonderful mixed-breed, rescue dog.

After growing up in Williamsburg, Virginia, Ethan earned his Bachelor’s degree from Virginia Military Institute in 2019 and his Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 2022. His decision to pursue law and his dedication to the profession were inspired by his father, who is also an attorney, and by witnessing the impact that legal advocacy can have on others.

Ethan joined KPM LAW’s Norfolk office in 2025, bringing a diverse background in trial practice and personal injury litigation. Before joining the firm, Ethan served as a prosecutor in the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, where he gained significant trial experience in cases involving violent felonies and felony firearms offenses. After serving as a prosecutor, he transitioned to working on civil matters and came to our firm with experience defending both private and government clients in medical malpractice litigation and workers’ compensation matters.

His early exposure to high-stakes litigation sharpened his advocacy skills and provided a strong foundation for his current practice in matters involving liability, automobile/trucking accidents, and other complex or unique personal injury and property damage cases. He represents insurance companies, self-insured entities,and other corporate clients, approaching every matter with the understanding that each one presents unique challenges and deserves a tailored defense strategy. His work involves both representing these clients in court once a suit has been filed and guiding them as they respond to incidents immediately after they happen. He is admitted to practice in the Virginia State Courts (2022) and the Eastern District of Virginia (2024).

Since joining KPM LAW, Ethan has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and collaboration, valuing the process of aligning with clients to solve complex issues and achieve optimal outcomes. He brings an innovative mindset and a passion for learning to each and every case.

Outside of the office, Ethan is an avid athlete who enjoys cycling, tennis, and skiing. Notably, he delivered the opening statement in a second-degree murder jury trial just seven weeks after passing the Virginia Bar Exam, an experience that continues to fuel his confidence and courtroom poise.