Matthew Pertuit Named to 2026 Louisiana Rising Stars List

The Rising Stars distinction is reserved for practitioners aged 40 or younger or those with fewer than 10 years of experience. Selection requires a rigorous, multiphase process that weighs peer nominations against independent research across 12 professional indicators, including trial outcomes, firm standing, and community involvement. Only 2.5% of attorneys in the state receive this designation.

Pertuit’s recognition coincides with the first year of the state's amended Civil Code article 2323. Under House Bill 431, which took effect January 1, 2026, plaintiffs found 51% or more at fault for their injuries are barred from recovering damages. For personal injury and wrongful death cases handled by the Smiley Law Firm, this change necessitates a more precise approach to liability assessment during negotiations and jury trials. Managing Attorney Seth Smiley emphasized that the firm maintains a focus on compassionate, personalized representation as it adapts to this new legal framework.