Ryne Smith earned his bachelor’s degree from Columbia University in 2016 and his Juris Doctor with a Certificate of Public Interest Law from the University of Alabama School of Law in 2022.
After law school, Ryne joined the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program as Community Access Team attorney and Voting Rights Fellow, where he worked on critical issues affecting the disabled community. Following his role at ADAP, Ryne transitioned to Jones Law Firm, LLC in Albuquerque, where he specialized in criminal defense, undertaking significant work under a public defense contract. Ryne’s responsibilities at the firm extended to private criminal defense and a range of civil matters, including employment discrimination and personal injury cases.
Prior to his legal career, Ryne served with the Peace Corps in Lesotho, focusing on English education and HIV/AIDS mitigation. His law school years were marked by active involvement in social justice causes, such as animal advocacy, habeas relief for ICE detainees, and alternative dispute resolution for indigent clients. With a diverse background in both international service and legal advocacy, Ryne brings a unique perspective and unwavering dedication to every case he takes on.