About the Firm

Niven & Smith, LLP is a small law firm that provides legal services in the Bay Area of California. Founded in 1977, the firm focuses on real estate and commercial litigation at the trial and appellate levels, business litigation and transactional work, and mediation. It has established a reputation throughout the Bay Area for effective and efficient representation. The firm’s four partners have a broad range of experience that enables them to provide comprehensive legal services. They can resolve many disputes before trial, but they will fight vigorously to protect their clients’ rights in court when settlement is not possible. One partner is a trained mediator in addition to his work as a litigator.

Experienced Advocates

Each of Niven & Smith’s partners have at least thirty-five years of experience as an attorney. Founder James Niven has practiced law for more than fifty years.

Their legal practice has included litigation, transactional work, and appellate work in multiple industries and areas of law. Real estate makes up a large portion of the firm’s work, including partnership disputes among co-owners of real estate, landlord-tenant disputes, and mediation of real estate disputes. The firm also handles complex business matters involving both litigation and transactional work, and legal issues involving wineries, vineyards, and other businesses in California Wine Country.

Dedicated Litigators

Every partner at Niven & Smith, LLP is a seasoned litigator. They have handled a vast array of real estate disputes and claims, including broker malpractice, purchase and sale agreements, title and escrow disputes, partnership disputes, and easement claims. They provide vigilant representation to clients on both the plaintiff and defense sides in litigation matters.

Very few lawsuits go all the way to trial. Most end with a settlement agreement. Niven & Smith’s attorneys advocate tirelessly for their clients at the negotiating table. When negotiations break down, they will continue pursuing their clients’ rights and interests in the courtroom.

Skilled Mediation

California’s legal system often encourages mediation as an alternative to traditional litigation. Partner Stanley Smith has an active mediation practice in addition to his other work for the firm. He focuses on mediating real estate disputes, ranging from residential real estate contracts to complex matters involving the partition of real property among business partners.

Contact Niven & Smith, LLP today to schedule a consultation to see how their team can assist you.