Prior to joining Simmons Wolfhagen Smithton office, Jonathan Smith operated his own legal practice based in Smithton for more than 40 years focussing on Commercial, Conveyancing, Wills, Probates, Family and Minor Civil Litigation.
In the 1980’s and 1990’s Jonathan gained significant specialised experience working in the Abalone and Rock Lobster fishing sector. Acting for major clients during this period of massive legislative changes, Jonathon helped define future legislative changes and other commercial practices in a series of significant Court cases.
Jonathan’s expertise in the transactional side of Farming (predominantly from New Zealand, but also other international and interstate farmers moving into the North West coast of Tasmania) and Forestry continues as a significant part of his work acting for beef and dairy farmers, both within, and outside of the Circular Head area. Jonathan’s capabilities include share farming arrangements, farm and stock leases, securities within that sector and equity partnership arrangements.
Jonathan’s strength in Business and Farm Succession and Estate Planning, including creation of Wills and conducting large Probate matters, has allowed him to assist families work through the complexity and challenge of business and farm succession through the generations.
As a long-standing member of the Taxation Institute of Australia and a member of the Family Law Practitioners Association of Tasmania, Jonathan regularly attends conferences and associated professional development.
Jonathan is the current Chairman of Emmerton Park Incorporated, the aged care provider in Circular Head and is a life member of that Association.
Jonathan prides himself on his clear communication, focus on client service and attention to detail.
When not actively involved in his practice Jonathan enjoys spending time at his shack, swimming, playing tennis, enjoying AFL both locally and nationally, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family.