Attorney Alanis Smith received her Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University, where she cultivated her interest in advocating for underserved populations. She then earned her law degree from Wayne State University Law School, where she excelled in public service work, including organizing a 5k run that raised funds for the Public Interest Law Fellowship. As a student attorney at the Legal Advocacy for People with Cancer Clinic, Ms. Smith helped clients navigate complex legal challenges related to life planning, public benefits, Medicaid, and housing, solidifying her passion for helping individuals access essential resources.
Prior to joining Disability Law Group, Alanis gained practical experience as a legal assistant and later as a law clerk at an estate planning firm, where she drafted a variety of legal documents, including trusts, wills, powers of attorney, deeds, commercial leases, and business operating agreements. Her early exposure to advocacy began in high school and continued through her studies, volunteering with the Proud Equestrians Program, a therapeutic horseback riding initiative for individuals with disabilities.
Ms. Smith began her journey with DLG as a Social Security law clerk after her second year of law school, reviewing clients’ files, analyzing medical records, and drafting persuasive briefs for submission to Administrative Law Judges, all while providing critical support to the team. She stayed with the firm throughout her final year of law school, where she wrote numerous pre-hearing and on-record briefs, leading to favorable decisions for disabled clients, including On-Record Fully Favorable outcomes. After passing her bar exam, she transitioned into her role as an attorney with DLG.
Ms. Smith is admitted to the State Bar of Michigan and is an active member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives. Her compassion, attention to detail, and determination make her an invaluable advocate for clients navigating the complexities of disability law.
In her free time, Alanis enjoys spending time with friends and family, exploring new restaurants, and traveling to the East Coast to visit her extended family and enjoy the beaches.
