Abel L. Smith III is an attorney with more than three decades of legal experience in federal and local government handling advisory and litigation matters. He recently retired as the Assistant Chief Counsel for General Law, in the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, where he managed a team of attorneys and paralegals that advised the Agency in several operational areas including: appropriations, procurement, grants, labor, employment, tort litigation, civil rights, and ethics.

Abel has also held positions in the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights; the City of Chicago; and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. His work focused on ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, providing legal support on strategic governmental initiatives, and providing representation in litigation matters. He also has represented numerous private clients in residential and commercial real estate matters. Known for his thoughtful leadership and collaborative approach, Abel has built a reputation as a trusted advisor and advocate.

Abel earned his B.A. in economics from Grinnell College and received his J.D. from Northern Illinois University College of Law.

Abel resides in Bethesda, Maryland. He has served on boards and/or committees of several organizations, including a school trustee’s council, condominium and building associations, and church organizations. He enjoys salsa dancing, walks, biking, weightlifting and cardio exercise, and Krav Maga, a hybrid martial art.