​Smith Named First Partner At Ward Law Group

MANCHESTER, NH — On Jan. 1, Ward Law Group, PLLC proudly announced Dana K. Smith, as the firm’s first partner.

Dana has worked with Attorney Ward since 2013 and has been a major contributor to Ward Law Group, PLLC’s progressive growth since the firm’s formation in 2019.

“Dana is hard working, loyal, and a valued member of the team,” John Ward, managing partner, said. “I’m excited to have him as partner.”

Dana has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic and an unwavering commitment to excellence to our firm. He has not only fulfilled the responsibilities of his role with distinction, but has consistently sought opportunities to enhance the firm’s efficiency, strengthen its presence within the community, and exemplify the firm’s core values in every interaction with clients and colleagues.

Dana has worked alongside Founder and Managing Attorney John L. Ward since 2013, when both worked at Normand & Associates in Manchester. Smith is an active member of the New Hampshire Bar Association, served two consecutive terms as the Chairman of the New Hampshire Workers’ Compensation Section, held the first ever “Young Professional” seat with USA500 Club’s New Hampshire division, and previously served on the Board of Trustees for Kreiva Academy. Dana regularly appears in Concord before the New Hampshire Department of Labor and the Compensation Appeals Board in connection with Workers’ Compensation matters.

Throughout his career, Dana has earned numerous distinctions, including five consecutive selections (2021–2025) by Super Lawyers Magazine as one of New Hampshire’s Rising Stars. He’s also been recognized for his work in Workers’ Compensation, being named a Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff Attorney by the National Trial Lawyers Association for eight straight years and a Top 25 Workers’ Compensation Attorney in both 2024 and 2025. Dana maintains a 10.0 attorney rating on both Avvo and Justia, both supported by consistent five‑star feedback from satisfied clients, and was awarded the Client Choice Award by Avvo in 2025.

Dana is ready to take on new and bigger challenges as he assumes the role of partner. “I’m truly honored to be recognized for the commitment I’ve had to the core values of Ward Law Group” said Dana. “I’m looking forward to the prospect of continued growth for the firm in the future, and excited about assuming my new role as a partner.”

Congratulations once again on this well‑deserved promotion for an outstanding member of the Ward Law Group, PLLC team.

Ward Law Group, PLLC, a statewide practice, is headquartered in Manchester and includes six satellite offices around the state and Massachusetts. The personal injury-based law firm also has an office on Main Street in Littleton, NH. With over sixty years of combined experience, the highly qualified team of attorneys and dedicated staff assist clients with their Personal Injury, Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability claims in addition to providing services for Probate and Estate Planning.

For more information on our firm, visit our website at wardlawnh.com or call 603-232-5220. For all other inquiries, please contact our Marketing & Public Relations Manager, Deana McDonald at dtrombley@wardlawnh.com or 603-444-5499.

Submitted by Ward Law Group