Janette Smith has been practicing law in the public sector since 2007. Prior to pursuing her legal career, Janette spent over a decade working in information technology at prominent companies such as United Parcel Service and Nova Southeastern University. Janette earned a Bachelor of Science, Master’s in Business Administration and Juris Doctorate from Nova Southeastern University and she is the proud recipient of the Shepard Broad Law School Technology Scholarship for her work in strategic planning, technology implementation and governance.
For over a decade, Janette has served the public through various government positions at the city, county, and state level where she provided legal counsel while also improving technology services to enhance the inter-connectivity of government. Janette has held senior level positions such as City Attorney, City Clerk, Chief Information Officer, Assistant State Attorney, Assistant County Attorney and Assistant General School Board Counsel.
Since joining Vernis & Bowling, Janette handles various matters for several local government entities including the School Board of Monroe County, City of Key Colony Beach, City of Layton, Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, and Key Largo Fire & EMS District.
Janette also understands the importance of volunteering and giving back to the legal profession and the community. She currently serves on multiple state and local boards, including Florida Bar – City, County and Local Government Section Executive Board as Section Chair.
Janette is available train electives and staff in multiple areas related to government work.
In her free time, Janette enjoys learning about new technologies (such as Artificial Intelligence). She loves to travel, and also has two amazing dogs (her “fur buddies”), Nyla and Broddy.