Edward L. Smilow, Esq., PGM, is an Attorney at Law, Golf Professional, and Professor of Golf and the Law. As a trial and appellate lawyer for 35 years, a golfer for 55 years, a golf professional for 18 years, and the creator and professor of the only college course taught on golf course law in the United States, he has the unique ability to represent the Game of Golf and the people who make a living in the game.
Litigation Support- As general counsel to numerous golf courses, country clubs and resort properties, Mr. Smilow has broad-based knowledge and experience to provide legal counsel and representation to avoid legal entanglements, successfully defend against unwarranted claims, and effectively advocate the rights of those who have invested their lives and fortunes in the Game of Golf.
Mr. Smilow represents owners, operators, general managers, PGA professionals, superintendents, country club controllers, golf industry entrepreneurs, golf vendors, and industry leaders have all sought his counsel on the myriad of ways that golf is affected by the law. A much-requested and noted speaker at golf industry forums, he has a unique perspective reflective of his extensive knowledge of golf history, the importance of golf in today's society, and the need to avoid legal entanglements through the introduction of proactive measures and aggressive representation when needed.
Areas of Expertise:
- Errant Golf Ball and Personal Injury Law
- Golf Course Labor and Employment Law
- Contract Negotiation, Review and Implementation
- Purchase and Sale of Golf Course Property
- Government Relations
| - Golf Course and Country Club Organization, Management and Operation
- Golf Course ADA and Civil Rights Compliance
- Golf Course Architecture and Design Standards
- Non-profit Organizations
- Environmental Law and Compliance
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Background Experience - Graduate of Cornell University, the New England School of Law, the Professional Golfers Career College (Valedictorian) and advanced legal certification from the University of Southern California. Member of the bar of the State of California and the Supreme Court of the United States. Elected to membership in the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates and designated a "Citizen of Distinction" by the NAACP, City of Santa Ana, State of CA, and the Congress of the United States.
Past Executive Director of the California Golf Course Owners Association, Member of the CGCOA Advisory Board, Mr. Smilow represents owners and operators throughout the State of California.