J Arthur Smith III Law Office – Baton Rouge, LA

A Champion for Workers’ Rights and Civil Liberties

For over 50 years, J. Arthur Smith III has been a towering figure in the legal landscape of Louisiana, fighting tirelessly for the rights of employees and the oppressed. Establishing his firm in 1972, Mr. Smith dedicated his career to a clear mission: ensuring that powerful corporations and government entities are held accountable for their actions. Unlike firms that represent management, the J Arthur Smith III Law Office stands firmly on the side of the individual worker. Mr. Smith is a renowned specialist in labor and employment law, known for taking on difficult cases involving discrimination, whistleblower retaliation, and constitutional violations.

Mr. Smith’s reputation as a fearless advocate is backed by a history of landmark victories. He has successfully litigated cases in state and federal courts, including the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court. He is a founder of the "Stand Up for Workers" Political Action Committee, demonstrating his commitment to advocacy both inside and outside the courtroom. Clients who choose this firm are not just hiring a lawyer; they are enlisting a lifelong crusader for justice who understands the profound emotional and financial toll that workplace injustice can inflict on a family.

Areas of Practice

The firm specializes in protecting individual rights in the workplace and beyond:

• Employment Discrimination: Representing victims of bias based on race, sex, religion, age, or disability. Mr. Smith has a deep understanding of the nuances of Title VII and state anti-discrimination laws.
• Whistleblower Protection: defending brave employees who have been fired or demoted for reporting illegal activity, fraud, or safety violations.
• Wrongful Termination: Challenging firings that violate employment contracts or public policy.
• Civil Rights Violations: Litigating cases involving police misconduct, excessive force, and violations of First Amendment rights.
• Sexual Harassment: Providing a safe and supportive environment for victims to seek justice against harassers and the employers who enable them.

Peer-Reviewed Excellence

J. Arthur Smith III is one of the few plaintiff’s lawyers in Louisiana to be inducted as a Fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers, a prestigious honor reserved for the most accomplished attorneys in the field. He is also consistently listed in The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and has received the highest possible ratings from his peers for ethical standards and legal ability. His deep involvement with the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA) ensures that his firm is always at the cutting edge of employee rights litigation.

Historic Downtown Location

The firm operates from a historic building in the Spanish Town neighborhood, just steps from the center of power in Baton Rouge.

Address: 830 North St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

This location is symbolic of the firm’s work, situated in the shadow of the State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion. It allows for immediate access to the federal and state courthouses where Mr. Smith fights his battles.

"Standing Up for the Little Guy." In a system often stacked against the worker, J. Arthur Smith III provides the level playing field necessary for justice to prevail.

If you have been mistreated at work or have had your civil rights violated, do not stay silent. Contact the J Arthur Smith III Law Office to speak with a legend in Louisiana labor law.