Warner-Smith-Harris PLC

The life of the law has not been logic: it has been experience. It is the spirit and not the form of law that keeps justice alive. A trial is the resolution of a dispute. Wherever Law ends, Tyranny begins. I consider trial by jury as the only anchor ever yet imagined by man, by which a government can be held to the principles of its constitution. The clearest way to show what the rule of law means to us in everyday life is to recall what has happened when there is no rule of law. The law is reason, free from passion. The law: it has honored us; may we honor it.

Attorneys

Joel D. Johnson

Joel D. Johnson • Partner

Joel Johnson has practiced as a defense lawyer for more than 25 years. Joel focuses his litigation practice in the areas of employment law, commercial liability defense, construction law and litigation, insurance defense, general litigation, railroad defense and oil & gas litigation. Joel serves clients such as construction companies, railroads, oil & gas companies, employers and individuals in his litigation practice. Joel also counsels clients so the clients can attempt to prevent litigation.

In addition to trying and negotiating cases, Joel has mediated many other cases. Joel’s success in mediation is outstanding – he has settled 95% of the disputes he has mediated.

Based upon his experience with the oil & gas industry, Joel is also providing title examinations and opinions.

Areas of Practice

  • Employment law counseling and litigation
  • Commercial Liability Defense
  • Products Liability
  • Construction Law and Litigation
  • Domestic Relations
  • Insurance Defense
  • General Litigation
  • Railroad Defense and Appellate Practice
  • Litigation and Appellate practice includes both state and federal court systems. A good portion of litigation is being resolved through mediation.

Industry Focus

  • Employers: employment law, construction industry, railroad

Education

  • University of Arkansas, J.D., December 1978
  • Baylor University, B.A., 1976

Bar and Court Admissions

  • Arkansas, April 1979

Activities and Community Service

  • Member, Sebastian County Bar Association
  • Member (House of Delegates, 1990-1995 and 2009-2012), Arkansas Bar Association
  • Member, American Bar Association
  • Member (president, 1990-2000), Arkansas Association of Defense Counsel
  • Master, W.B. Putman American Inns of Court
  • United Way
  • Board of Directors (1996-2003)
  • Chairman of Board (2003)
  • Campaign Chairman (2005)
  • Arkansas Bar Association Pro Bono Attorney of the Year (1993)
  • Arkansas Volunteer Lawyers for the Elderly
  • Pro Bono Attorney of the Year 2002 and 2007
  • Member, DRI (Defense Research Institute)
  • State Rep for Arkansas - 2002
  • BOTA (American Board of Trial Advocates)