Former FEC chairman joins Steptoe & Johnson PLLC

COLUMBUS, Ohio (Legal Newsline) - A former Federal Ethics Commission chairman is bringing his political expertise to a Columbus law firm.

Professor, attorney and political commentator Attorney Bradley Smith has joined Steptoe & Johnson PLLC. Smith will focus his practice in the areas of political law and government relations from the firm's Columbus, Ohio, office, according to a recent press release.

Smith is currently a law professor at Capital University and is a visiting professor for the West Virginia University College of Law. He was appointed by President Clinton to serve as a commissioner of the Federal Election Commission from 2000-2005 and elected chairman for 2004.

In addition to his professorship, Smith maintains an active appellate legal practice in Columbus as well as Washington, D.C. He is best known for his knowledge of politics, particularly in the campaign finance, lobbying, and election law areas, according to the press release.

"Steptoe & Johnson is fortunate to have someone with Brad's legal and scholarly knowledge as part of our team," firm CEO Susan Brewer said. "His experience in campaign law is sure to benefit our clients throughout the country."

Smith is also a founding member and chairman of the board for the Center for Competitive Politics.

"(Smith) is a go-to resource for clients seeking advice in campaign finance, election law, and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act," said Richard Lewis, a business department chair at the firm. "We are very pleased to have (him) join our firm. The experience he has gained in law and during his tenure at the FEC will be invaluable to our clients."

From Legal Newsline: Reach David Yates at elections@legalnewsline.com