Last week, Venable announced that effective January 1, 2013, partner Joe Schmelter will assume the position of Partner-in-Charge of the firm’s Tysons Corner, VA Office. Schmelter takes over the position from David Smith who returns to his expanding labor and healthcare practice. News of Schmelter’s new position was featured in the Blog of Legal Times and Washington Business Journal on December 12, 2012.
In an interview with the Blog of Legal Times, Schmelter said he plans to continue his practice in addition to his new leadership role. “I certainly hope it does not mean time away from continuing to build an M&A practice out here in Tysons Corner and furthering our client relationships,” Schmelter said. “The larger picture is that the changing of the guard is something we do from time to time.” Over the next five to ten years, Schmelter said the firm plans to grow its government contracting, technology and real estate practices. Additionally, he wants to expand the firm’s pro bono efforts which will help attract new talent. Schmelter also said he wants to continue Smith’s efforts. “He presided over a difficult time not only for Venable but other firms, Schmelter said of Smith. “We're coming out of that now and my goal is to continue what David has started over the past few years.”
In an interview with the Blog of Legal Times, Schmelter said he plans to continue his practice in addition to his new leadership role. “I certainly hope it does not mean time away from continuing to build an M&A practice out here in Tysons Corner and furthering our client relationships,” Schmelter said. “The larger picture is that the changing of the guard is something we do from time to time.” Over the next five to ten years, Schmelter said the firm plans to grow its government contracting, technology and real estate practices. Additionally, he wants to expand the firm’s pro bono efforts which will help attract new talent. Schmelter also said he wants to continue Smith’s efforts. “He presided over a difficult time not only for Venable but other firms, Schmelter said of Smith. “We're coming out of that now and my goal is to continue what David has started over the past few years.”