Bio
Peter J. Smiley, JD, MS-T: Founder and Managing Attorney, Centurion Legal Services
Peter Smiley is the founder of Centurion Legal Services, an estate and tax planning firm serving clients across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. A Milwaukee native, Peter built Centurion on a vision of combining sophisticated legal strategy with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to personal, community-focused service. His practice centers on guiding individuals, families, and closely held businesses through complex estate, tax, and succession planning, often involving multistate and high-net-worth portfolios.
Before founding Centurion, Peter served in leadership roles at prominent regional firms and as a national subject matter expert in private client services. Licensed in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, he is recognized as a Top Rated Super Lawyer, a Rising Star, and a “One to Watch” by Best Lawyers. He currently serves on the Wisconsin State Bar’s Taxation Section Board and Legislative Drafting Committee, and is an active member of multiple professional associations, including the Milwaukee and Chicago Bar Associations and the American Bar Association.
Beyond his legal work, Peter is deeply invested in the Milwaukee community. He serves as Vice President of the Friends of the Domes Board, contributing to the Domes Reimagined initiative, and is an advocate for the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Notre Dame Schools of Milwaukee. His conservation efforts—including restoring prairie habitats on his own property and supporting local environmental organizations—reflect his belief in stewardship, sustainability, and service. Through both his professional and civic work, Peter exemplifies the next generation of Milwaukee leadership: innovative, community-minded, and dedicated to leaving a lasting impact.
