Michael A. Smith

Attorney and Counselor At Law

Micheal A. Smith’s legal practice focuses on estate and probate law, real estate, family law, and business and corporate matters. Drawing on more than three decades of experience with closely held businesses, nonprofits, and families, he brings a practical, relationship-centered approach to entity formation, contracts, and long-term business and estate planning. Before joining McLeod Legal Advisors, LLC, he served as an associate in the Corporate Practice Group at Dykema Gossett PLLC in Detroit, Michigan, before commencing a solo practice representing corporations and nonprofit organizations in a wide range of transactional work.

In addition to his legal experience, Micheal has worked in financial reporting and public accounting, and has held leadership roles in theological education, including serving as Vice President for Administration at Ecumenical Theological Seminary. He holds a Doctor of Ministry and Master of Divinity from Ecumenical Theological Seminary, a Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Howard University.

How He Helps Clients

Micheal helps clients safeguard their wealth and business interests by combining careful planning with practical, ongoing advice. He works with owners and families to structure entities, contracts, and buy-sell arrangements that limit personal exposure and clarify rights and responsibilities. For estate planning, he uses tools like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to protect assets, provide for loved ones, and ensure a smooth transition of ownership or control. His approach is deeply relational; he starts by listening carefully to his clients’ goals, family dynamics, and business realities to build a plan around what matters most to them.

Micheal is dedicated to clarity and practicality, using plain language and straightforward documents so his clients always understand their options and feel in control. He frequently guides families through overwhelming circumstances—such as a parent's sudden illness—helping them establish clear roadmaps, choose trusted decision-makers, and prevent long-lasting conflict. Overall, his work is about protecting what his clients have built while making day-to-day life and future transitions easier on them and their families.

Get to Know Michael:

  • Originally From: Detroit, MI

  • What he loves about the local area: The walking and riding paths along the lakefront.

  • Hobbies & Interests: Cooking, traveling, playing golf, and collecting comic books.

  • Community Involvement: Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Guiding Wisdom: "If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception; it is a prevailing attitude." – Colin Powell

Areas of Practice & Specialties

  • Estate Planning Documentation & Probate

  • Business Entity Formation & Corporate Law

  • Real Estate Law & Contract Drafting

  • Asset Protection

  • Family Law

Contact Information

Phone:( 313) 283-5746

Email: msmith@mcleodlegaladvisors.com

Professional Designations: JD; M.Div.; D. Min.; BCC