Wrede H. Smith

Wrede “Bud” Smith is an owner of a family business, American Pop Corn Company, which was founded in 1914 and is now run by the fourth and fifth generations of the Smith family. He brings a unique perspective to the task of advising the owners of closely-held and family-owned businesses. Whether you have concerns about succession planning, employment of children, compensating non-family executives, or deciding when and how to sell the business, Bud has the experience and judgment necessary to help your business and your family analyze their options and achieve their goals.

More than 25 years ago he helped to create the Family Business Center at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, which today offers educational forums and networking opportunities to more than 60 member companies. DeWitt has continued to sponsor the Family Business Center since its inception, and Bud has taken a leadership role at the Center as a board member, lecturer, financial contributor and active participant. He also has taught classes on family business at the U.W. Madison School of Business.

Bud also represents individuals who seek to develop or update their wills and trusts. Often, Bud recommends and implements sophisticated planning techniques designed to preserve the client’s wealth or pass a family farm, business or vacation home to the next generation. He also helps clients achieve their philanthropic goals with entities such as family foundations and charitable remainder trusts. For 25 years, he chaired the firm’s Estates & Trusts practice group and has served as a director and former President of the Madison Estate Council.

Additionally, Bud represents a number of other closely-held companies. These companies include corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies. He particularly enjoys helping his business clients expand, merge with other businesses or acquire new businesses. Each expansion, merger or acquisition involves a unique set of challenges, including financing, employee restrictive covenants, taxation, and ownership structure. Bud is responsive and creative in helping his clients meet and overcome those challenges.

Bud has also been named a Wisconsin “Super Lawyer” by his peers.

Bud represents individuals seeking estate planning advice and closely held businesses of all kinds, including many family owned businesses. A small sample of the family owned businesses that Bud represents includes Diesel Forward, Inc., The Bruce Company, Smart Motors, Inc. and Mid-State Equipment, Inc.