Description of field of expertise

Nana Asante-Smith is a litigation, white collar, and investigations attorney who helps clients navigate high-stakes moments where legal risk, reputation, and business priorities converge. Her practice focuses on internal and government investigations, white collar crime, complex business litigation, and allegations of sex discrimination in higher education.

Drawing on her experience as a former prosecutor, Nana approaches each situation with a prosecutor’s mindset by carefully evaluating facts and positioning clients to respond strategically. She also routinely leads internal investigations across industries that include financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. She helps clients uncover critical information while assessing potential civil, criminal, and regulatory risk.

In addition to her investigations work, Nana maintains an active litigation practice, representing clients in a wide array of litigation disputes across industries. She has experience in federal and state courts as well as administrative proceedings and quasi-judicial forums.

A significant component of her work involves sensitive and high-profile investigations under Title IX, where Nana has examined allegations of sexual misconduct and discrimination at major institutions. In each case, she balances the demands of legal compliance with the broader considerations of institutional integrity and public trust. She also serves as a Hearing Advisor for reporting and responding parties in Title IX proceedings.

Nana is known for her ability to distill complex situations into clear, actionable guidance. Ultimately, regardless of the industry or circumstances, her primary goal is to help clients get to the root of the challenges they face, identify solutions, and seize opportunities.

 

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

Don’t underestimate the value of your lived experiences. Whether you are a parent, first-generation professional, survivor, or someone who has had to overcome significant obstacles, those perspectives are not barriers. They are assets. They sharpen your judgment, deepen your empathy, and make you a more effective advocate. Honoring your lived experiences in the legal field will also help you stay grounded in your purpose. There will be long days and moments where the path forward is not always clear. In those moments, it is especially important to remember why you chose this work and what lights your fire. I sincerely believe that if you stay committed, remain adaptable, and keep pushing forward in this work, you will always find your voice and show your impact. 

Additional Information

Fun facts:

1. My kids and husband have the same middle name.
2. If I was not an attorney, I would be one of the following: an event planner, a mortician, or a funeral home director.
3. Being a contestant on the Wheel of Fortune is a dream of mine!