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Ohio Lawyers

77 distinguished attorneys practicing in Ohio, each reviewed by the Lawyers of Distinction Selection Committee.

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Andrew Goodwin

Featured Lawyer

Wills and Trust Law

1350 Euclid Ave., Suite 280, Cleveland, OH 44115

Andrew C. Goodwin is principal attorney at Rhodium Law, LLC, in Cleveland, Ohio, where his practice includes estate planning and elder law. Before becoming a lawyer, he worked in information technology for more than a decade, holding management and senior positions at a Fortune 500 company and a flagship state university. Goodwin earned his law degree at Harvard Law School; his Ohio admission dates to 2015. Commercial agreements, privacy and cybersecurity were the subjects of his early legal work at a large firm. An in-house counsel position with a global health system followed. Outside his professional work, he was his mother’s primary caregiver during five and a half years with dementia. At Rhodium Law, Goodwin’s estate planning work ranges from wills and revocable living trusts to beneficiary reviews and trust funding. He advises families in Ohio about Medicaid planning, guardianship and special needs trusts, as well as planning for long-term care. Executors and successor trustees also turn to him for advice on administration, including the filings and court requirements that accompany those responsibilities. Business and property matters form another part of his practice. For entrepreneurs and business owners, his work includes operating agreements, contracts and succession planning; he also serves Ohio businesses as fractional general counsel. His real estate work covers both residential and commercial transactions, with assignments including title review, deeds and commercial leases. Goodwin’s professional memberships include WealthCounsel and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

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Benjamin Churchill

Workers Compensation Law

5 E Long St suite 200, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Benjamin P. Churchill was born in Columbus, Ohio. Ben graduated cum laude from The Ohio State University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 2003. He went on to Capital University where he received his Juris Doctor degree in 2008. During his time at Capital, Ben worked for the Franklin County Prosecutor and Columbus City Attorney Ben has fifteen years (15) of experience representing injured workers before the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and Ohio Industrial Commission. In addition, he has represented injured workers in various Ohio counties before the Court of Common Pleas in cases involving the injured worker’s right to participate in the Ohio Workers’ Compensation Fund. Ben was admitted to the Ohio Bar in 2008. Upon graduation, he entered private practice representing injured workers at Malek & Malek Law Firm from 2008 through 2020. He was admitted to the Southern District of Ohio Bar in 2011. Ben joined Cox, Koltak & Gibson, LLP as an Associate in 2021 and continues to focus solely on representing injured workers.

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Benjamin Luftman

Criminal Defense Law

601 S High St, Ste 107, Columbus, OH 43215

I am believer that people accused of a criminal offense deserve the most competent and experienced legal counsel possible for a fair and reasonable cost of representation. My team of criminal defense lawyers vigorously defends the rights of Ohioans accused of all types of State or Federal criminal offenses. I grew up in the Central Ohio area (small town of Bexley OH) and attended The Ohio State University for my undergraduate degree before obtaining my Juris Doctorate in Law at Capital University Law School. When I'm not in the court room, I like to spend my time with my family, volunteering with local organizations and charities, and playing sports. I also enjoy traveling that involves outdoor exploration and adventure.

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Brad Andringa

Social Security Disability Law

220 E Monument Ave., 305, Dayton, OH 45402

Brad Andringa is a Social Security Disability and veterans’ disability attorney with Horenstein, Nicholson & Blumenthal (HNB), which maintains an office in Dayton, Ohio. He assists Ohio workers seeking Social Security Disability benefits and military service members seeking veterans’ disability benefits. His firm profile lists practice admissions in Ohio and before the Department of Veterans Affairs, Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Social Security Administration and U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. It also identifies the National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates among his professional associations. The other associations listed are the American Bar Association, Ohio State Bar Association, Dayton Bar Association and Miami County Bar Association. Before receiving his Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law in 2015, Andringa completed a Bachelor of Science in economics at Florida State University in 2012, with a business minor. HNB includes a Pro Bono Commitment to Community Award in the education section of his biography. His background includes work in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. HNB serves clients across Ohio through offices in Dayton, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Columbus. The Dayton office is located at 220 E. Monument Avenue, Suite 305. Beyond the two disability practice areas identified for Andringa, the firm advertises long-term disability, personal injury, workers’ compensation and homeowner’s insurance services. These broader services describe HNB’s practice rather than additional fields of practice attributed to Andringa.

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Bradley Groene

Criminal Defense Law

810 Sycamore St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Bradley J. Groene is a criminal defense attorney in Cincinnati with Luftman, Heck & Associates. His work in the greater Cincinnati area dates to 2009 and includes representing defendants facing both misdemeanor and felony charges. Groene’s listed practice areas range from traffic tickets and OVI/DUI charges to drug offenses, assault, and violent crimes. His individual profile also lists sex crimes, weapons crimes, theft and fraud, and warrants. Domestic violence defense is among the work described in his career history. The firm’s account of his case preparation includes negotiating with prosecutors while preparing for trial when a client seeks it or the circumstances require it. It also describes his work explaining legal options to clients as they make decisions about their cases. His interest in law began with a business law course during his undergraduate studies. Criminal law became his focus in law school, when he interned with the Hamilton County Public Defender’s office and handled cases in the county. He continued working in criminal law after law school. Away from his practice, Groene’s interests include playing softball and golf. He watches the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals and attends their games. His biography also describes time spent with his wife and daughter, socializing with friends, and playing board games with his family.

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Brian R. Redden

Brian R. Redden

Featured Lawyer

Civil Litigation

221 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA

Brian's primary work is helping privately-owned businesses avoid and, if necessary, defend against employment practices violations and lawsuits, and protect the competitive edge those businesses have gained through hard work and sacrifice. Brian handles the whole spectrum of employment and trade secret law: employment agreements, non-compete agreements, trade secret protection, employment policies, employee handbooks, executive compensation, employee recruiting and job placement, employee counseling, negotiation of severance agreements, non-litigated resolution of employment disputes, and trials and appeals of employment and trade secret disputes. Brian also handles disputes involving business transactions, business ownership, personal injury, construction (particularly mechanic's liens, lien enforcement, and general contractor and subcontractor issues), and environmental matters. In past practice, Brian represented amateur (high school and college age) and professional athletes in negotiating and enforcing player and endorsement contracts and has more recently pursued agent malpractice and professional liability claims for negligently negotiated agreements that damaged professional athletes and their earning potential. Brian has also assisted a number of professional athletes in creating and operating charitable foundations and non-profit organizations.

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Brianna J. Walsh

Brianna J. Walsh

Featured Lawyer

Family and Divorce Law

2 Miranova Pl., Suite 330, Colombus, OH 43215

Brianna joined Miller Bahnson in 2019 bringing several years of legal experience to the firm. She concentrates her practice in family law representing parties in dissolution proceedings, complex divorces, and child custody proceedings. She is a certified Guardian Ad Litem. Brianna was born and raised in Findlay, Ohio. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from The Ohio State University, with a minor in psychology. Upon graduation from The Ohio State University, Brianna attended Capital University’s paralegal program. After working several years as a paralegal at a general practice law firm in Dublin, Ohio, she enhanced her education at Capital University Law School. While in law school, she concentrated her studies on litigation and gained valuable experience participating in many organizations geared toward her love of family law. She received the CALI Award in the Ligation Clinic and Practicum where she served as a judicial intern on multiple domestic relations cases. She competed in oral arguments in the National Moot Court Competition in Child Welfare & Adoption Law, served on Capital’s Moot Court Executive Board, and on Capital’s Child and Family Law Advocates’ Executive Board. Brianna also served as a judicial extern for the Honorable Judge Elizabeth Gill in Franklin County’s Domestic Relations and Juvenile Court. Brianna is a member of the Columbus Bar Association, Ohio State Bar Association, and Women Lawyers of Franklin County.

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Bryan Steward

Distinguished Lawyer

Civil Litigation

6480 E. Main St., Suite A, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

Bryan Steward practices law in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, as managing member of The Steward Firm LLC. Business and nonprofit law are among his practice areas, along with entertainment law, civil litigation, personal injury and workers’ compensation defense. The firm has its office at 6480 East Main Street, Suite A. Columbus is Steward’s hometown, and he attended Columbus City Schools. He also served the district in elected office on its Board of Education; his tenure ended with service as vice president. Another former public role was special counsel to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. Outside his legal work, Steward’s background includes jobs with several Fortune 500 companies and adjunct teaching at colleges and universities. He earned his Bachelor of Science at Bowling Green State University’s College of Business Administration. Franklin University’s Graduate School of Business awarded his MBA, and he holds a law degree from Capital University Law School. His court admissions extend beyond Ohio to the federal district courts for both the Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio. He is also admitted to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court. Steward belongs to the Ohio State, Columbus, Licking County and National bar associations. His affiliations outside those professional organizations include Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

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Casey O'Brien

Casey O'Brien

Distinguished Lawyer

Personal Injury Law

401 South St, Chardon, OH 44024, USA

Mr. O'Brien graduated from Notre Dame Cathedral Latin High School in Munson Township, Ohio, in 1993. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Walsh University in 1997, and obtained a JD Degree from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in 2000. Mr. O' Brien joined Petersen & Ibold upon his admission to the practice of law in 2000. Mr. O'Brien is a member of the Geauga County, Ashtabula County and Ohio State Bar Associations. Mr. O'Brien practices in the areas of general litigation, criminal and juvenile law, personal injury, real estate, business law and estate planning.

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Chad A. Foisset

Chad A. Foisset

Distinguished Lawyer

General Practice Law

575 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Chad A. Foisset joined the firm in 2020 with 20 years of professional experience, including 16 years engaged in the practice of law at Price Law Firm, LLC, and four years of service as a tax consultant in Big Four public accounting. With his prior service in a general law practice, Mr. Foisset has extensive experience in assisting individuals and businesses over a variety of legal areas, including Family Law, Estate Planning, Business Formation and Planning, Probate, Consumer Bankruptcy, and general civil litigation. Originally from Granville, Ohio, Chad earned his Bachelor's degree from Miami University (B.A., 1996), and law degree from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law (J.D., 1999). He is licensed to practice in the State of Ohio, the United States District Court for the Southern and Northern Districts of Ohio, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern and Northern Districts of Ohio, and in the United States Tax Court. Mr. Foisset is a member of the Ohio State Bar Association and the Columbus Bar Association, where he is involved in the Family Law, Probate Law, and Bankruptcy Law committees. He is a past member of the Judicial Liaison Committee to the United States Bankruptcy Court in Columbus.

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Charles Niehaus

Charles Niehaus

Distinguished Lawyer

Corporate and Transactional Law

2927 North McCord Road, Suite 300, Toledo, OH 43615

Charles D. Niehaus has represented corporate and business clients for over 25 years on a wide range of business issues including securities, venture capital, corporate, banking, international law, and renewable energy matters.

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Elder Law

27 W Mulberry St, Lebanon, OH 45036, USA

Since graduating from the University of Dayton College of Law in 1998, Attorney Lavin has focused his practice in the area of Elder Law serving the needs of senior citizens, including but not limited to, a dedication to the areas of estate planning, retirement planning and asset protection with a specific concentration towards nursing home qualification, comprehensive use of trusts, wills, probate issues and durable powers of attorney. Attorney Lavin previously worked for Pro Seniors, Inc. in Cincinnati, where he assisted seniors with diverse Elder Law issues, including nursing home planning. Attorney Lavin now serves as the managing partner of the Lavin Law Group LLC, which was founded on the idea that estate planning is for everyone, and that an educated client will make the best decision for themselves and their families. We all have options. In addition to his law degree, Attorney Lavin holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree from Xavier University. Attorney Lavin is licensed to practice law in the State of Ohio as well as the State of Kentucky, and has been admitted to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. He is a member of the Ohio State Bar Association, the Cincinnati Bar Association, the Kentucky Bar Association, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and Wealth Counsel. He also serves on the Elder Law Committee of the Cincinnati Bar Association. Attorney Lavin is a frequent lecturer for various professional groups on legal issues affecting seniors including the Warren County Alzheimer’s Association, the Ohio Parkinson’s Association, The Dayton Chapter of the Ohio Tax Society, and the Wright-Patterson AFB Retiree Support Squadron. Attorney Lavin has also taught Medicaid to attorneys and other professionals for the National Business Institute, and co-authored 101 Questions about Living Estate Planning and Living Trusts.

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Christopher Schmitt

Family and Divorce Law

146 East Liberty Street, 185, Wooster, OH 44691

Christopher A. Schmitt is a family law attorney in Wooster, Ohio, with Schmitt Law, Ltd. His practice has been limited to family law since 2001. Divorce and dissolution are part of that work, alongside prenuptial agreements, adoption and establishing parentage. His biography also lists parental rights and responsibilities, grandparents’ rights, juvenile law, contempt of court and appeals. Schmitt returned to Wooster in 1994 and worked as a Wayne County assistant prosecuting attorney and civil counsel for the Wayne County Children Service Board. That same year, he received his law degree from Capital University Law School and was admitted to the Ohio bar. Before law school, he completed undergraduate studies at Otterbein College in 1991. He graduated from Wooster High School in 1987. Wooster has remained his practice location since 1994, though his cases have extended beyond Wayne County. His biography names Holmes, Ashland, Medina, Summit, Cuyahoga, Knox, Tuscarawas, Franklin and Stark among the other counties where he has represented clients. Schmitt served as an acting judge at Wayne County Municipal Court from 2008 to 2012. He later chaired two Wayne County Bar Association committees: Juvenile Court in 2013 and Certified Grievance in 2014. Outside his legal work, Schmitt served as a trustee of The Village Network from 2008 to 2012. He also coached travel soccer for the Wooster Edge Soccer Club between 2009 and 2015 and was president of the Wooster Soccer Association from 2013 to 2015.

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Clifford M. Farrell

Clifford M. Farrell

Featured Lawyer

Social Security Disability Law

5810 Shier Rings Rd, Dublin, OH 43016

Area of Practice: Social Security Disability Law & Veterans Compensation Disability Clifford M. Farrell is owner of the firm of Manring & Farrell. He received his B.A. degree from Moravian College and his J.D. degree from Capital University Law School, and is licensed in Pennsylvania, Virginia and Ohio. His practice is limited to handling of veterans’ disability claims, and Social Security and SSI claims and at the administrative level and in federal courts around the US. Cliff is a sustaining member and is a past member of the Board of Directors for the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) NOSSCR, and is a frequent lecturer for NOSSCR and other organizations on Social Security related matters. He is recognized in Ohio as a Board-Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy Social Security Disability Advocacy, and serves on the NBTA Social Security Advisory Committee, which certifies lawyers as specialists in Social Security law.

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Insurance Law

441 Wolf Ledges Pkwy, Akron, OH 44311, USA

Cynthia Curtin serves as a magistrate at the Summit County Domestic Relations Court in Akron, Ohio, following service as a Stow Municipal Court judge. The Ohio Association of Magistrates identifies her position as part time. Her legal career began in Cleveland in 1989, when she joined Keller, Scully, and Williams as an associate after earning her law degree at Cleveland State University College of Law. Her undergraduate degree is from Indiana University, where she studied business administration. Her legal education included an externship with Judge Ann McManamon of the Eighth District Court of Appeals. In 2003, Curtin and her husband, G. Michael Curtin, opened a litigation firm in Akron. She took over as managing partner in 2009. They practiced together until his death in 2017; she kept the firm operating until 2023, then joined Perez Morris in Cleveland. Her work before entering the judiciary included jury trials and appellate arguments, as well as mediation and arbitration. Governor Mike DeWine appointed Curtin to the Stow Municipal Court to fill the remainder of Judge Kim Hoover’s term. That term ended on December 31, 2025. At Stow, she heard misdemeanor and traffic matters and civil cases involving less than $15,000. Outside her law practice, Curtin served on the Hudson Planning Commission, including periods as vice chairman and chairman. She also co-chaired the Western Reserve Academy Antiques Festival for two years.

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Daniel Abraham

Medical Malpractice Law

536 S. High Street, Floor 2, Columbus, OH 43215

Practice Areas: Products Liability Law Personal Injury Law Medical Malpractice Employer Intentional Torts Bar Admissions: Ohio, 1982 U.S. District Court Southern District of Ohio, 1994 U.S. District Court Northern District of Ohio, 1995 U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 1991 U.S. Supreme Court, 1991 U.S. Court of Federal Claims Representative Cases: William James, et al. v. Paul Herrell, et al., Employment class action case, class certified and settlement obtained, currently pending final distribution of settlement proceeds Vicki Grant, et al. v. Becton Dickinson & Co., et al., Product liability class action case, class certification obtained, reversed on appeal; now pending re-hearing before trial court Roberta Booth, et al. v. Georgia-Pacific Corporation, et al., Environmental class action case, class certified and settlement obtained, currently implementing community liaison program and medical examination program In Re: Diet Drugs Products Liability Litigation, Single plaintiff in nationwide class action case involving the drugs Phentermine, Fenfluramine and Dexfenfluramin, case pending settlement agreement In Re: Silicone Gel Breast Implants Products Liability Litigation, Multiple plaintiffs in a nationwide product liability class action case involving breast implants, final resolution pending Horton v. Harwick Chem. Corp. ( Case clarifying the application of the theory of alternative liability rejecting the “frequency-proximity” test in asbestos [product liability] cases in Ohio), 73 Ohio St. 3d 679 , 1995 Priscilla Goodin v. Columbia Gas of Ohio, et al. (Review of Ohio employer liability for intentional torts), 93 Ohio St. 3d 1434 , 2001

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Daniel Mordarski

Daniel Mordarski

Distinguished Lawyer

Civil Litigation

5 E. Long St., Suite 1100, Columbus, OH 43215

Dan Mordarski worked for a commercial litigation law firm for 12 years and represented some of the largest international companies. In 2006, he resigned as a partner and started his own firm. Mordarski represents plaintiffs and defendants in civil litigation matters including wrongful death, serious personal injury, sexual abuse, civil rights, employment, legal malpractice, product liability and all types of commercial litigation. His practice also includes attorney ethics and expert witness assistance in legal malpractice and attorney fee matters. As a result of his extensive experience with complex litigation and his record of successfully trying cases for both defendants and plaintiffs, Mordarski has become a top choice mediator for sophisticated, complex and high value claims. Mordarski has appeared on the Today Show, Anderson Cooper, Dr. Drew and other local television and radio programs. He also lectures on civil litigation matters, attorney ethics and professionalism.

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David P. Meyer

Securities Law

305 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

David P. Meyer is the founder and managing principal of the Meyer Wilson Werning law firm. David is an financial fraud attorney with more than twenty-five years’ of experience in federal and state trial courts and arbitration cases, representing clients from all over the world. David has the honor of winning a record-breaking $261 million class action jury verdict against Prudential Securities on behalf of 200 retirees. David filed the class action lawsuit back in 1999 when he was 29 years old. After a seven-year court battle against Prudential, including two appeals, every one of the retirees in the class action recovered 100% of their losses and their attorneys’ fees. Since that case, over 1,500 individual investors from around the world have trusted David and his team with their investor claims. The firm has recovered more than $350 million on behalf of its clients in verdicts, judgments, and settlements. As further demonstration of David’s strong leadership, experience, and strong reputation, he has been elected to lead three separate plaintiff bar associations, including the Public Investors Advocate Bar Association (PIABA), the national association of lawyers who represent individual investors in cases of financial advisor misconduct; and the Ohio Association for Justice, Ohio’s statewide trial bar association of over 1,000 trial lawyers. David is the author of the Amazon #1 Best-Seller, The Investor Protector; Stories of Triumph of Financial Advisors Who Lie, Cheat and Steal. He wrote the book to help prevent hard-working retirement savers from becoming victims of investment fraud and to share his experiences of cases he has handled over the past 20+ years. The book is available on Amazon. Following the release of the book, more than a dozen podcast hosts invited David as a guest to talk about the book and his career as an investment fraud lawyer. David continues to receive the highest recognition from the legal community. He was once again awarded “Lawyer of the Year” in his practice area and location by Best Lawyers® for 2025 and has been recognized by “Best Lawyers” and “Super Lawyers” from 2011-2025. Also, U.S. News once again selected Meyer Wilson Werning as a Tier 1 “Best Law Firm” for 2025.

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Medical Malpractice Law

6294 Ridge Road, P. O. Box 189, Sharon Center, OH 44274

Gary T. Mantkowski is an attorney in Sharon Center, Ohio, with a background in mechanical engineering and a legal career focused on representing injured people. His office, Gary T. Mantkowski Co., L.P.A., is on Ridge Road. Before entering law school, Mantkowski worked on tires for earth-moving equipment. He was a design engineer in Off-the-Road Tire Development at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron, having earned his mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree at Ohio State University in June 1978. He had grown up in Brecksville and finished high school there in 1974. The move to law came in fall 1979, when he enrolled at the University of Akron. During law school he held the managing editor position on the Akron Law Review; his law degree followed in May 1982. He passed the Ohio bar examination that summer and gained admission to practice in November. Mantkowski’s professional biography describes using his engineering background in work for people injured through medical malpractice, vehicle collisions and defective products. It places most of his clients in Cuyahoga, Medina and Summit counties, though his representation has also extended to surrounding counties. His professional service has included membership on the Medina County Bar Association’s Certified Grievance Committee and service as its chairman. The firm also lists services beyond injury claims: wills, powers of attorney, living wills, probate estates and simple contract matters.

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Gayle P. Vojtush

Gayle P. Vojtush

Featured Lawyer

Personal Injury Law

9521 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, USA

Gayle Vojtush has handled detailed complex and high stakes cases in personal injury, litigation, and social security areas. She has knowledge and experience with mediations, arbitrations, alternative dispute resolution, bench trials, jury trials, default hearings and administrative law hearings. Gayle is honored to have been selected by The National Trial Lawyers as one of the top 100 Civil Plaintiff attorneys in the United States. Gayle does incredible work for accident victims because she understands the mechanics of the accident, the medicine behind the injury, the law related to liability, and the damages to the victim. She has handled every kind of injury case imaginable with outstanding results. Gayle will go to trial, and has done so many times for clients. Every attorney would prefer to settle cases, but if the other side is simply being unreasonable during settlement, then Gayle is as comfortable in the courtroom as she is in the boardroom. Gayle's advantage over an attorney that will not go to trial is that she forces the person responsible for your injury to be reasonable, or face a jury. Gayle believes in giving back to the community, where people value her commitment to the law and levelheaded judgment. Gayle taught the civil trial process as a part time professor at Lakeland Community College in Kirkland, Ohio. She taught Civil Law and Law Office Management and Procedures. Gayle served on the Board of Trustees for Big Brothers & Sisters of Greater Akron, Ohio where she was appointed as one of the Trustees for the Rules and Compliance Committee, and Fund Raising. Gayle received her law degree from the Cleveland Marshall College of Law, Cleveland, Ohio, where she had Dean's List honors, served on the Moot Court Team, including serving on the Moot Court Board of Governors, and was a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. She received her undergraduate degree at the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, where she received a B.S. in Political Science, and an A.A.S. in Criminal Justice Technology. Phillips Law Firm, Inc. is extremely proud of the work that Gayle has done for clients that need help with their personal injury cases. When you have been injured, you need to talk to Gayle. When you hire an attorney that has been designated as one of the top 100 lawyers in the United States, you can expect outstanding representation.

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Criminal Defense Law

323 West Lakeside Ave., Suite 200, Cleveland, OH 44113

Henry Hilow’s legal career in Cleveland has encompassed criminal defense, prosecution and litigation involving the Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association. His legal education culminated in a Juris Doctor from Cleveland Marshall Law School in 1981. Before law school, he studied history and English at Miami University, earning his undergraduate degree in 1978. After his admission to the Ohio bar in November 1981, John T. Corrigan hired Hilow as an assistant county prosecutor in the criminal division. He spent eleven years in the prosecutor’s office. An assignment to the major trial division followed in 1985, with work that included murder cases, rape cases and special investigations. Hilow moved into private practice after an unsuccessful campaign for a judgeship. In 1992, he and William McGinty established McGinty Hilow; Kevin Spellacy joined them in 1994. His earlier exposure to legal work included a job as a messenger at Jones Day while he was a high-school freshman. In December 2022, Ohio’s Eighth District Court of Appeals listed Hilow as counsel for the Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association in Cleveland v. Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Assn. The appeal concerned the city’s challenge to an arbitration award and the association’s request to confirm it. The appellate court affirmed the trial court’s judgment confirming the award. His civic background also includes service on Lakewood’s Zoning Board of Appeal.

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Howard L. Richshafer

Tax Law

600 VINE STREET, 25TH FLOOR, CINCINNATI, OH 45202

Howard is partner in charge of the Tax Controversy Group at the Cincinnati law firm Wood & Lamping, LLP. He has practiced law for over 39 years. He is also a licensed Ohio CPA. HE has a BBA accounting degree from the University of Cincinnati, and, received his Juris Doctorate (law) degree from Salmon P. Chase College of Law. He is licensed to practice law in all Ohio courts, the United States Tax Court, U.S. District Court in Cincinnati, 6TH Circuit Court of Appeals, and United States Supreme Court. Howard’s practice concentrates in civil and criminal tax problems, estate planning and probate, and tax court trial work. From 1968 to 1978, he was a federal agent with the U.S. Treasury Department/IRS. While there, he served in several technical and management positions. For approximately 39 years, he has taught in the graduate Tax program at the University of Cincinnati, Adjunct Professor of Taxation.

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J. Kevin Lundholm

Civil Litigation

300 E. Third Street, Dover, OH 44622

J. Kevin Lundholm has maintained an active litigation practice since his admission to the bar in 1985. In October, 1999, Mr. Lundholm became board certified in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in Boston, Massachusetts. In order to achieve this board certification, Kevin had to demonstrate substantial trial experience, obtain recommendations from judges and opposing counsel, complete extensive continuing legal education requirements, and pass a day-long written examination. Mr. Lundholm received mediation training in January, 2001, at the Private Adjudication Center, Duke University. He represents clients in mediations and has served as a mediator as well. In 2007, Kevin served as lead trial counsel for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District at the confirmation hearing of a $210,000,000 assessment. The 18 judge panel of the Conservancy Court confirmed the award, which was later upheld after a series of appeals. In 2012, Kevin became board certified in Civil Pretrial Advocacy by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification. Kevin attended Blackburn College in Carlinville, Illinois, where he received a B.A. Magna Cum Laude in 1982. He graduated Cum Laude with a Juris Doctor degree from The University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio in 1985. He is a member of the Tuscarawas County Bar Association and the Ohio State Bar Association.

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Jack Diehl

Jack Diehl

Distinguished Lawyer

Personal Injury Law

304 E Warren St, Lebanon, OH 45036, USA

Jack Diehl is an associate attorney at Diehl Law, practicing in the areas of personal injury, criminal defense, and domestic relations. He works closely with attorneys Tom Diehl and W. Scott Russell, providing dedicated, client-centered representation. Jack has deep roots in Southwest Ohio. He graduated from Springboro High School before earning his undergraduate degree from Miami University in Oxford and his Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2025. While in law school, Jack was awarded both a College of Law scholarship and the Warren County Bar Association Scholarship. During law school, Jack gained extensive hands-on legal experience through coursework which included a trial practice course and a writing seminar taught by Justice DeWine of the Ohio Supreme Court. He also worked as a Law Clerk for Cincinnati attorney Jay Brinker, building a strong foundation in the areas of estate planning and small business law. His responsibilities included drafting wills and trusts (both revocable and irrevocable), preparing probate administration filings, and drafting and recording real estate transfer and business formation documents. Jack is a 2021 graduate of Miami University, where he attended on the RedHawk Excellence Scholarship. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics with minors in Computer Science and Economics, and served as the Philanthropy Chairman of the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity. After college, Jack worked as an Anti-Money Laundering Analyst for Protiviti, analyzing financial transactions to identify potential money laundering, human trafficking, and other illicit activities—experience that sharpened his analytical skills and attention to detail. An accomplished athlete, Jack was a four-year varsity tennis player at Springboro High School, a District Qualifier, GWOC Conference Player of the Year, First Team All-Dayton in singles, and the 2017 Springboro High School Male Student-Athlete of the Year. Outside of work Jack enjoys golf, fantasy football, country music, snowboarding, and wake surfing in Northern Michigan.

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James M. Kelley

James M. Kelley

Featured Lawyer

Medical Malpractice Law

6105 Parkland Blvd #200, Cleveland, OH 44124, USA

Jay Kelley is the Managing Partner of Elk + Elk and one of Ohio’s most respected medical malpractice attorneys, with more than 25 years of courtroom experience. Based in Cleveland, Jay has handled high-profile birth injury, maternal death, surgical error, and wrongful death cases across the state. Jay’s legal career began as a felony prosecutor, followed by a role defending major Ohio hospital systems. This rare dual background gives him a unique advantage in medical negligence litigation, allowing him to anticipate defense strategies and advocate effectively for injured clients and their families. In 2002, Jay joined Elk + Elk. He became a Partner in 2011 and was named Managing Partner in 2017, where he now leads the firm’s litigation strategy and case development in state, federal, and appellate courts.

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Jamie R. Lebovitz

Jamie R. Lebovitz

Distinguished Lawyer

Aviation

600 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA

Area of Practice: Aviation Law With compassion, dedication, and years of aviation litigation experience, Jamie R. Lebovitz has focused his practice on helping families who have lost loved ones in aviation disasters. Jamie is a senior partner at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy. He practices in the areas of personal injury and wrongful death litigation with a concentration in aviation, railroad, and trucking calamities. Jamie has more than 35 years of experience as a trial attorney, and he has recovered numerous multi-million dollar settlements and jury verdicts in cases against commercial airlines, aircraft manufacturers, railroad and trucking companies, and the federal government. He’s a member of the American Association for Justice, the Ohio Association of Justice, the Cleveland Academy of Trial Attorneys, the Ohio State, Cleveland, and Cuyahoga County Bar Associations, the Lawyers-Pilots Bar Association, and numerous other organizations. Jamie has been appointed by federal and state courts as a member of the lead trial counsel team and the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in aviation and railroad accident cases. In these roles, he has coordinated the investigation and preparation of cases for trial on behalf of all claimants and litigants. He has earned an AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, which has been the leading authority on peer review evaluation of a lawyer’s capabilities for more than 100 years. The rating is awarded to lawyers who have achieved the highest levels of professional skill and integrity in their fields. In addition, Law & Politics recognizes Jamie as an Ohio Super Lawyer®. Attorneys who receive this title are chosen by their peers and the independent research of Law & Politics as representatives of the top attorneys in their state. Jamie is married and has three children. Outside of the office, he enjoys skiing, reading, traveling, playing golf and tennis, and wine tasting.

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Janice Innis-Thompson

Janice Innis-Thompson

Distinguished Lawyer

Corporate and Transactional Law

1 W Nationwide Blvd 34th floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Janice Innis-Thompson is a highly accomplished attorney and former federal prosecutor who has made significant contributions to the legal field. With a distinguished career working for leading financial services, technology and manufacturing companies, Janice currently serves as Senior Vice President and Lead Attorney for Nationwide Financial Services. Throughout her career, Janice has held key roles as Chief Compliance Counsel and Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer for Fortune 100 Companies such as TIAA, Samsung N.A. and Tyco International. In her current position, Janice leads a team of attorneys and legal professionals who provide invaluable counsel to Nationwide’s Financial Services. Janice's achievements extend beyond her professional endeavors. She currently serves on several boards, including MBIA, The Executive Leadership Council, National Forest Foundation, and The Children’s Hunger Alliance. Janice was also an inception member of Edward Jones’ BridgeBuilder Mutual Funds.

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Jason Donnell

Family and Divorce Law

118 S Pearl Ave, Lancaster, OH 43130, USA

Jason Mark Donnell is an attorney in Lancaster, Ohio, whose listed practice areas include family, custody and criminal law. He founded the Law Offices of Jason M. Donnell, LLC, which was established in 2010. His attorney profile identifies him as a sole practitioner. Donnell’s education includes a Bachelor of Arts from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, awarded in 2003, with a major in political science. He also earned a Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School in Columbus. His professional profile lists Geygan v. Geygan among his representative cases, identifying it as a 2012 Ohio Tenth District matter with the citation 2012-OHIO-1965. The same profile reports that litigation accounts for 80 percent of his practice. Beyond family, custody and criminal matters, Donnell’s individual practice-area listing includes corporate law, contract law and small-business representation. Probate, juvenile law and estate planning also appear in that listing. The firm describes its work as primarily involving family law, estate planning, small and medium business matters, and criminal defense. Based in Lancaster, it states that it serves clients in surrounding areas of Southeast Ohio. Its description of its local community ties specifically refers to serving people in Fairfield County. The firm’s website currently lists its Lancaster office at 302 East Main Street.

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Jesse Taylor

Jesse Taylor

Distinguished Lawyer

Sports Law

4030 Mt Carmel Tobasco Rd #216, Cincinnati, OH 45255, USA

Jesse James Taylor is an accomplished attorney, licensed in both Ohio and Kentucky, with a rich and diverse legal career. He graduated cum laude from both, the University of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky University Chase College of Law, where his academic excellence set the foundation for his future success. Jesse's legal journey began with attorney Richard Katz, where he honed his skills across various fields including business law, sports law, family law, and personal injury. His passion for trial work led him to the Clermont County Prosecutor's Office, where he gained invaluable experience in handling both misdemeanor and felony criminal matters. After five years with the Prosecutor's Office, Jesse embarked on a new chapter by establishing the Law Office of Jesse James Taylor. His practice areas now encompass business law, sports law, family law, estate planning, personal injury, and criminal/traffic defense. In addition to his legal practice, Jesse is dedicated to shaping future legal minds as an adjunct professor at Northern Kentucky University, where he teaches Sports Law, and NKU Chase College of Law, where he guides the Trial Team. Moreover, he is a Certified Contract Advisor for the National Football League Players' Association (NFLPA), demonstrating his expertise and commitment to sports law.

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John D. Kedzior

Distinguished Lawyer

Estate Planning Law

4500 Rockside Rd suite 440, Independence, OH 44131, USA

Area of Practice: Estate planning, Trust & Probate Law

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John Fitch

John Fitch

Distinguished Lawyer

Personal Injury Law

621 W Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

John Fitch is a top-rated Ohio personal injury lawyer with over thirty years of experience. John Fitch is the principal and founder of The Fitch Law Firm and has handled hundreds of complex damage cases, including catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases arising out of automobile, medical negligence, and product liability claims. John Fitch is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest peer review rating possible, and has been awarded a 10/10 Superb rating by the independent attorney review organization AVVO. John Fitch is licensed to practice law in the state of Ohio and obtained his law degree from the University of Dayton Law School. John Fitch is a past president of the Franklin County Trial Lawyers’ Association. He has also been active in a number of other bar associations, including the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. Over the years, John Fitch has helped many individuals and families recover significant settlements and awards, including many recoveries in excess of one million dollars. On November 20, 2019, Mr. Fitch obtained a verdict of $134 Million Dollars* on behalf of Amanda Brandt, who, at ages 11 and 12, was sexually abused by Roy Pompa, one of Ohio’s most notorious sexual predators. The verdict, rendered by a Cuyahoga County jury, is believed to be one of the largest personal injury verdicts in Ohio’s history. John is also licensed in Washington, D.C., and is currently active in Georgia. He is the proud parent of two wonderful boys, Charles and John.

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John Herrnstein

Wills and Trust Law

111 Stow Ave, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221, USA

John is a lifelong Buckeye. He graduated with honors from The Ohio State University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in business and accounting. In 1983, John graduated with honors from The Ohio State University College of Law. He has been practicing law in Cuyahoga Falls ever since. John has been active in the community as a long-time baseball coach and as a member of several community organizations. John and his family are proud to call Cuyahoga Falls home. ? During his thirty-six year legal career, John has prepared thousands of Wills, Power of Attorneys, Trusts, and sophisticated estate planning devises and has represented many clients with the administration of estates, trusts, and guardianships. Clients with litigation needs have also benefited from John’s experience. John has tried hundreds of lawsuits for clients in the courts in Summit County and throughout northeastern Ohio. John is an experienced trial lawyer in cases involving personal injuries, wrongful deaths, collecting accounts, and real estate matters. John’s extensive experience in construction law has benefited dozens of contractors and owners, both large and small. John represents many businesses of all types with their start-up needs, collection matters, employment issues, document preparation, and litigation matters. Hundred of clients with real estate matters have also counted on John to guide them through the sale or purchase of their homes, leases, and landlord or tenant issues. ? John is a member of the Ohio State Bar Association and Akron Bar Association. For 36 years, he has had the honor of assisting individuals and businesses with their legal needs.

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John Kearson Clark

Distinguished Lawyer

Criminal Defense Law

221 Main Pl, Jackson, OH 45640, USA

John K. Clark, Jr. worked full-time while attending college and law school. While studying for his Bachelor of Science degree at Franklin University, he worked nights at Fisher Body-General Motors. Upon obtaining his B.S. degree with honors, he was immediately accepted into the School of Law at Capital University. He obtained his Doctorate of Law degree while continuing to work full-time at General Motors. John sat for and obtained his license to practice law in Ohio and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. John is also licensed to practice before the highest Court of the land, namely the United States Supreme Court. John Kearson Clark, Jr. has been practicing law for over 30 years. During that time, he interned with the Ohio Supreme Court, specifically under Justice Holmes. He has also been employed by various prominent law firms, such as: Schottenstein, Zox and Dunn; Cassidy and Meeks; and L. F. Holzapfel Esq. , before starting his own firm. Clark Law

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John Rion

John Rion

Member

Criminal Defense Law

130 W 2nd St, STE 2150, Dayton, OH 45402

Jon Paul Rion is president of Rion, Rion and Rion, L.P.A, Inc., a three generation, criminal defense law firm, founded in 1938 by his grandfather. He is Board Certified in the field of criminal law and he has been continuously listed in the Best Lawyers in America. He has tried in excess of one hundred (100) felony jury trials, including capitol cases. He is a former president and Board of Director of the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and a lifetime member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Jon Paul Rion has been selected as a Fellow in the American Board of Criminal Lawyers. The ABCL is an exclusive national, legal, honorary fellowship for outstanding criminal trial lawyers, the admission to which is by invitation only. The rigorous evaluation, by the top lawyers in the country, makes being elected a Fellow the highest honor in the field. Jon Paul Rion has practiced in thirty (30) states, and his firm of six lawyers, based in Dayton, Ohio enjoys a national reputation. He has dedicated his life to seeing truth and liberation for clients through the ancient practice of law which guarantees that rights and freedoms are to be defended and protected.

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Joseph Lanter

Family and Divorce Law

14805 Detroit Ave suite 310, Lakewood, OH 44107, USA

For nearly 20 years, Attorney Joe Lanter has developed a strong reputation across two states for being a skilled and passionate advocate. Joe is focused on providing clients strong representation in a variety of Family Law matters, including divorce, dissolution, child custody disputes, support modification and enforcement, antenuptial / prenuptial agreements, and creating Separation Agreements and Shared Parenting Plans. Beginning his career as a county prosecutor in Missouri, Joe vigorously sought convictions for crimes such as homicide, felony assault, drug trafficking and manufacturing, drunk-driving, domestic violence, and hundreds of others over more than 5 years. After relocating to Northeast Ohio with his wife and children, Joe transitioned into private practice, where his commitment to professional excellence has continued, and his practice is now 100% devoted to the practice area of family law. Additionally, Joe is a certified Divorce Mediator and can assist your family in resolving your family law dispute amicably outside of court. Joe has established a strong reputation as a strong litigator and advocate in the Domestic Relations and Juvenile Courts in northeast Ohio. Having served as co-Chair of the Family Law Section and graduate of the Leadership Academy of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, Joe has been recognized by his peers as a leader and strong voice among fellow practitioners. Whether it be a hotly contested, high-conflict court proceeding or the pursuit of an out-of-court settlement, Joe recognizes that the practice of law is nuanced and realizes that no two clients are the same. To that end, he believes that in order to solve problems, he must endeavor to get to know his clients and their very specific needs. He has experience representing clients with substantial assets and high net worth and also working with the Ohio Domestic Violence Network to assist low-income survivors of domestic violence with a variety of family law needs. Joe has identified specific attention to the representation of Same-Sex Couples and Non-Traditional Families with their Family Law needs, including same-sex divorce and dissolution. Joe has experience with litigating contested custody actions as well as drafting Shared Custody and Separation Agreements for same-gender couples. Additionally, Joe serves as a Guardian ad Litem in domestic relations cases in Cuyahoga and Lorain County. As a GAL, Joe represents the best interests of children in divorce, post-decree, and domestic violence matters.

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Karen P. Meyer

Family and Divorce Law

123 Boggs Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45246

Karen Meyer is a partner in the law firm of Cornetet, Meyer, Rush & Stapleton. Karen has practiced primarily in domestic relations law since 1992. She is experienced in all aspects of family law and practices primarily in Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren Counties.

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Kevin Attkisson

Personal Injury Law

3033 Kettering blvd, 213, Dayton, OH 45439

Attorney Kevin Attkisson has handled thousands of personal injury cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, dog bites, and slip and falls. He has personally conducted nearly 100 jury trials for his clients, and he has recovered millions of dollars in compensation. You need an experienced lawyer who has worked his entire career almost exclusively in the field of personal injury law. Kevin Attkisson has the experience to get you the money you deserve.

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Kristopher Hill

Criminal Defense Law

17 N. 4th Street, FL 3, Zanesville, OH 43701

Mr. Hill’s practice areas include: criminal law and civil law. He received his B.A. from Denison University and then went on to receive his J.D. from Ohio Northern University College of Law. Mr. Hill is admitted to practice in the following jurisdictions: Ohio Bar; United States District Court, Northern District of Ohio; and United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio. In addition to his Lawyers of Distinction membership, Mr. Hill’s other professional associations incluce: Muskingum County Bar Association; Ohio State Bar Association; and the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

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Choosing a lawyer in Ohio

Every Lawyers of Distinction member in Ohio is licensed to practice law and has passed a review of achievements, peer recognition and ethics. Start with the practice area that matches your legal issue, compare member profiles and reviews, then contact an attorney directly from their profile.

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