Ian Wesley-Smith Named 2026 Emerging Legal Star

Hilo Partner Ian Wesley-Smith is recognized as a 2026 Emerging Legal Star by Hawaii Business Magazine. 

An experienced litigator, Ian’s practice focuses on commercial litigation in a wide array of matters including breach of contract, construction performance and defects, business entity disputes, intellectual property rights, and business torts. He represents a diverse range of clients from publicly traded companies to local individuals and companies, in both state and federal courts. 

Ian graduated first in his class from the William S. Richardson School of Law, obtaining his J.D., summa cum laude. During law school, he received thirteen CALI Excellence for the Future Awards, which are given to those who achieve the highest grade in the course. He was an Outside Articles Editor for the University of Hawaii Law Review and has co-authored two articles published in other law journals. 

Early in his legal career, Ian represented a client pro bono in a federal jury trial and prevailed, securing sizable damages for his client. In recognition of his support for the federal court’s efforts to expand access to justice in the community, Ian received the Ki’e Ki’e Award from the Hawaii State Bar Association (HSBA) for outstanding provision of pro bono legal services. He continues to contribute meaningfully to the community in his role as a Director of East Hawaii on the HSBA’s Young Lawyers Division Board. 

His professional accomplishments include recognition in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America in four areas: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Commercial Litigation, Construction Litigation, and Real Estate Litigation. Ian has also been selected multiple times by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star, demonstrating his professional achievement and leadership. 

Ian handles each case entrusted to him with diligence, passion, good judgment, and strong knowledge of the law. This is a well-deserved honor and we are proud of his exceptional achievements and dedicated service.