Overview
Mary leads the firm’s Nashville office and represents employers in all aspects of the employment relationship.
She defends clients in complex litigation involving claims under Title VII, the ADA, ADEA, FLSA, and USERRA, as well as state law claims including breach of contract, fraud, negligence, and emotional distress. Mary’s litigation experience spans federal and state courts and includes a wide range of workplace issues, from discrimination and retaliation to wage and hour disputes and wrongful termination claims.
With a background in human resources in both union and non-union settings, Mary approaches legal challenges with a practical mindset and a strong focus on early issue resolution. She works closely with employers to address workplace concerns proactively and minimize the risk of litigation. Mary regularly provides training and speaks on employment law topics, including military re-employment rights under USERRA, workplace harassment prevention, and termination best practices.
Mary’s dual experience in legal practice and HR operations allows her to deliver legal advice that aligns with business needs. She supports clients through internal investigations, compliance assessments, and policy development, particularly in fast-moving or high-risk employment situations. Her commitment to clear communication and long-term solutions makes her a trusted advisor to both in-house counsel and HR professionals.
Honors & Recognition
- ABA/TIPS Leadership Academy (2010-2011)
- Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Employment Law – Management, Labor Law – Management, Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants and Litigation - Labor and Employment (2016-2022, 2024-2026)
- Recognized as "Lawyer of the Year" in Nashville, TN for Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants in The Best Lawyers in America® (2021)
- Best of the Bar, Nashville Business Journal (2017)
- Chambers USA Guide® (2016-2025)
- Chambers USA Guide® - Up and coming (2013, 2015)
- Fellow, American Bar Foundation
- Mid-South Super Lawyers® (2017-2019, 2022)
- Patriot Award, Employer Support for the Guard & Reserve (ESGR)
- Rising Star, Mid-South Super Lawyers® (2009-2012)
- Tennessee Bar Association Leadership Law Program (2009)
About Me
Mary enjoys spending her free time with her husband, Travis, and their two children. As a family, they enjoy traveling, scuba diving, hiking, camping and cheering for Army football. Mary also enjoys reading and cooking.
Credentials
Education
Marquette University Law School
- J.D., 2001
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
- B.S., Political Science & History, 1995
Media
News
Events
Constangy Streaming
Leigh E. Tyson, Partner - Atlanta, GAMary Dohner Smith, Partner - Nashville, TN
Professional & Civic Associations
Civic
- Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce
Professional
- American Bar Association, Trial, Tort & Insurance Practice Section
- Long Range Planning Committee, Vice Chair
- Past Corporate Counsel Vice Chair
- Leadership Academy
- Tennessee Bar Association
- Past District Governor
- Past Treasurer – Board of Governors
- Past Leadership Law Steering Committee
- Women in the Profession Committee
- Leadership Law Class 2009
- Nashville Bar Association
- Lawyers’ Association for Women, Marion Griffin Chapter
- Past President
More About Mary
More About Mary
The best advice I received from a mentor
It is a sign of maturity rather than weakness to ask for help when you need it.
Sports team I root for most
I was born and raised in Wisconsin so I root for the Green Bay Packers! Yes, I have a cheese head!
What I would be if I wasn't a lawyer
If I were not a lawyer, I would host a travel show. Who wouldn't love to get paid to travel the world!
Services
Industries
Admissions
- Tennessee, 2001
State Courts of Tennessee
U.S. District Court - TN - E.D., M.D., W.D.
"Don’t you dare settle for fine!"
Roy Kent
