LAS VEGAS – Aug. 14, 2019 – Pisanelli Bice announced the promotion of two attorneys, Jordan T. Smith and M. Magali Mercera.
Smith was promoted from Of Counsel to Partner. He joined the firm in 2012 and returned in 2019 after serving as deputy solicitor general of Nevada. His practice focuses on appellate and complex litigation. Smith has experience in all phases of litigation from strategic planning, trial and appeal. He has argued 18 times in various state and federal appellate courts on issues ranging from business disputes and administrative law to habeas corpus and the death penalty.
Smith also has published scholarly articles on subjects including gaming law, statutory interpretation, and appellate practice. While at the Nevada Attorney General’s Office, Smith represented the state in many constitutional cases and matters of statewide or national importance.
Smith has been recognized by his peers as one of Nevada’s leading litigators, including being named by Best Lawyers as the “Appellate Practice Lawyer of the Year” for Las Vegas. He also has been recognized by Super Lawyers, Nevada Business Magazine, and Desert Companion Magazine. Smith is also known for his community service. He has argued pro bono appeals in conjunction with the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada, and he regularly volunteers for the Special Olympics of Nevada.
James Pisanelli, founding partner of Pisanelli Bice offered praise for the firm’s newest partner. “Jordan has a very impressive background litigating in the state and federal courts. He represents the firm extremely well in both small and complex cases.”
Mercera was promoted from Associate to Of Counsel. She joined Pisanelli Bice in 2011 and represents clients in a variety of complex business cases. Her litigation practice is focused on commercial disputes ranging from breach of contract and fiduciary duty claims to property and construction disputes. Mercera has experience with all aspects of litigation from discovery through motion practice and trial. Additionally, she is an active volunteer with the Children’s Attorney Project, representing children in the foster care system.
While attending law school, Mercera served as the managing editor of the Nevada Law Journal and as a judicial extern to The Honorable James C. Mahan of the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada. Her accomplishments in the legal profession have earned her accolades from many organizations and publications, including Martindale-Hubbell, Super
Lawyers, VEGAS INC Magazine, Nevada Business Magazine, and the Las Vegas Business Press. She also was recognized by Best Lawyers in America in the area of commercial litigation.
“Magali is focused on excellence. She continually sets herself apart through her outstanding work ethic, her exceptional organizational skills and her passion for the litigation process,” said Pisanelli.
