Introducing Markeishia Smith: Polk County Native and Local Attorney
I met Markeishia earlier this year at a networking event, and I’ll admit, I was a bit intimidated at first. She’s a statuesque beauty with a dazzling smile, a friendly personality, and she’s incredibly smart to boot. I was worried I’d say something silly, but her warm and approachable attitude put me at ease right away. Her down-to-earth outlook on life is both refreshing and inspiring. She is active in her community through various organizations like the recent Back to School Breakfast for Bethune Academy. Over tacos and guacamole, we had a great chat, and I got to know a little more about the remarkable Markeishia Smith, Esq.
About Markeishia Smith, Esq.
Markeishia Smith was born and raised in Polk County, Florida, where she graduated from Haines City High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English from Florida State University, followed by a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Before starting her career in law, Markeishia worked as an elementary school teacher and reading coach, eventually advancing to the roles of assistant principal and then principal at an elementary school.
Markeishia gained valuable experience at a local law firm in Winter Haven before deciding to open her own legal practice in the summer of 2017. She believes in educating her clients to empower them, making sure they fully understand their legal matters.
Interview with Markeishia Smith: Navigating Challenges and Finding Success in the Legal Field
Q: What has been the biggest challenge in your career?
Markeishia Smith: The biggest challenge in my career is often demystifying what clients believe should happen to resolve their case. People come in with preconceived notions about how things should go, often shaped by TV shows or what they’ve heard from others. It’s my job to guide them through the reality of the legal process and help them understand what’s truly possible.
Q: What do you consider to be your biggest successes?
Markeishia Smith: My biggest successes are when I can help clients find closure. It’s incredibly rewarding to assist someone in putting a difficult chapter of their life behind them and watching them start to move forward. Seeing that transformation is what makes all the hard work worth it.
Q: What is your biggest goal?
Markeishia Smith: My biggest goal is to live a life filled with meaningful work that aligns with my beliefs about what comes after this life. Simply put, I want to do good work and do right by people. On a more personal note, I also aim to raise self-sufficient, confident children who become productive members of society and are able to realize their own goals in this lifetime.
Q: What or who inspires you?
Markeishia Smith: My inspiration comes from many sources. Leading the way has always been my mom, who set a strong example for me. But now, I’d have to say it’s my old self. I’ve overcome a lot of adversity and never gave up, even when things got tough. Reflecting on that version of myself inspires me to keep pushing forward, even when the road ahead seems difficult.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Markeishia Smith: The best advice I’ve ever received was, “It doesn’t matter what they think of you. Just don’t prove them right.” This, of course, assumes their thoughts of you aren’t very high. It’s a reminder to stay focused on what you know to be true about yourself and not let others’ perceptions dictate your actions.
Q: Do you have any advice for young women who want to become lawyers or enter the legal field?
Markeishia Smith: My advice to young women aspiring to join the legal field is simple: Do it. Believe in yourself. Write a plan. Get help when you need it. And keep working at it until you achieve your goals. It’s all about persistence and self-belief. If you’re determined, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish.
