Sam Smith

Having previously led the firm’s Property Department, he continues to advise clients on residential and commercial property matters whilst leading the firm’s strategy, operations and long-term development. 

Over more than 20 years in practice, Sam has built a reputation for calm judgement, practical thinking and guiding clients through important decisions. Clients value his ability to bring clarity to complex situations and to keep matters moving when challenges arise.

As Managing Partner, Sam's focus extends beyond individual transactions. He helped found the firm with a simple ambition: to build a different kind of law firm, one where exceptional legal advice and genuine personal connection carry equal importance. A firm that measures success not only by growth, but by the difference it makes to its clients, its people and the communities it serves. That belief continues to guide the way he leads and the future he is helping build for the firm.

Experience

With more than 20 years' experience, Sam has advised clients on a wide range of residential and commercial property matters, including high-value, time-sensitive and complex transactions.

While he remains actively involved in practice, much of Sam's focus today is on leading the firm and building for the future. Some of the aspects of his career that he is most proud of include: 

• Co-founding and helping grow Streathers Daynes Smith into a respected multi-office legal practice built on strong values, trusted relationships and exceptional client service;
• Mentoring and supporting colleagues throughout their careers, including many who have gone on to become senior lawyers and leaders within the firm;
• Helping thousands of clients navigate significant property transactions and life decisions.

What Sam finds most rewarding is seeing clients achieve their goals and colleagues flourish in their careers. He takes particular satisfaction in helping create an environment where people can grow, fulfil their potential and make a positive difference to others.

Testimonials

Streathers acted for us in the sale of a property and maintained their professionalism throughout the transaction. Sam Smith(Managing Partner), Victoria Kernahan (Senior Legal assistant) and their team were a pleasure to deal with. We always felt we were in very safe and capable hands.

Could not have been more professional or helpful. Would highly recommend and we will certainly use Sam and Victoria again.

Throughout the process of selling the house, I have been impressed with the sheer professionalism of Streathers. Never stuffy or boring, this Practice is also filled with people who are enjoyable to work with. Sam Smith was excellent at explaining - in plain English - the role of solicitors in the legal process and what exactly is required from sellers. And Victoria Kernahan, who dealt with the formalities, not only proved super-efficient at dealing with the legal stuff and excellent at chasing our buyer's tardy solicitors, but also has a keen sense of humour. Which meant that having to phone (or email) our solicitor was never a chore - or a bore. Today, as I raise a glass to completion, I salute Streathers and thank Sam and Victoria for their hard work!

We worked with Sam Smith at Streathers, Highgate on both our sale and purchase this summer. The purchase became complex and Sam went above and beyond helping us navigate unusual and challenging circumstances. We are very grateful to have hired this solicitor and would do so again in a heartbeat.

Beyond the Law

If Sam hadn’t pursued a career in law, he would most likely have become a sports coach. He has always enjoyed helping individuals and teams perform at their best, whether on the sports field or in the workplace. Many of the lessons he learned through sport, including discipline, teamwork and resilience, continue to shape his approach to leadership today. 

Outside work, Sam’s favourite role is being husband and dad. Much of his time is spent travelling and making memories with his wife and two boys.