From Miami to Tallahassee, a Career Built on Opportunity, Trust and Community

Fifteen years ago, Nicole Smith began her journey with RumbergerKirk in the Miami office, where she built a strong foundation as a litigator. Seven years later, she made the move to the Tallahassee office—a transition she describes as seamless, thanks to the firm’s uniquely connected culture and supportive team environment.

“I’m really grateful to have had the opportunity to pick up my practice and relocate with my family,” Nicole shared. “RumbergerKirk trusted me to continue growing my career from one end of the state to the other. Because our firm is so collegial, I already knew partners in Tallahassee before the move, which made the transition incredibly smooth. That kind of cross-office connection is rare.”

Today, Nicole focuses her practice on Labor and Employment Law, an area she found a passion for after years as a general litigator. She credits the firm for giving her the freedom to explore and ultimately specialize in a field that aligns with both her interests and strengths.

“Being at a regional firm like ours, with such a broad range of practice areas, opens the door to so many opportunities,” she said. “You might start in one area of law and find that your perfect fit is somewhere entirely different—just like employment law was for me.”

Nicole also values the mentorship and professional development she’s received along the way, particularly through her involvement with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). With encouragement from the firm, she’s been able to deepen her knowledge and expand her network within the employment law community.

When asked what she enjoys most about RumbergerKirk, Nicole doesn’t hesitate. “It’s the people,” she said. “Our Tallahassee office feels like a close-knit family. Everyone is positive, supportive, and truly celebrates each other’s successes. That kind of atmosphere makes all the difference.”

Looking ahead, Nicole is energized by the firm’s future. “I’m excited to see the next generation of leaders grow and lead RumbergerKirk into its third generation,” she said. “That continuity is one of the reasons I chose to build my career here. The first firm I worked for dissolved overnight when leadership decided not to continue. When I was interviewing with RumbergerKirk, I was impressed by the fact that the firm had already transitioned into its second generation of leadership. Nearly 50 years later, the firm is still strong—and it’s exciting to be part of that legacy.”

From her early days in Miami to becoming a trusted partner in Tallahassee, Nicole’s 15-year journey at RumbergerKirk is a testament to growth, adaptability, and the power of community.