Christina White Smith

Christina White Smith was designated as the Acting Director of the Office for Access to Justice (ATJ) in January 2025. She brought to the position a depth of Department of Justice experience and commitment to supporting the office’s growth, development and vision. Prior to her designation, Ms. Smith served as ATJ’s Deputy Director and worked on a wide range of initiatives to expand legal access.

During her tenure with the Justice Department, Ms. Smith served as a Senior Attorney Advisor in the Office of the Pardon Attorney where she provided legal and policy advice on matters related to executive clemency. She was also a Trial Attorney in the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of California. Ms. Smith is a recipient of the Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service.

Prior to joining the Department of Justice, Ms. Smith practiced civil and criminal litigation in Chicago and maintained an active pro bono practice. In addition, Ms. Smith previously served as an adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University Law Center and The George Washington University Law School. She received her undergraduate degree from Howard University and her J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law.