2025 Columbus Local Lawyers / Super Attorneys listings
Local Lawyers / Super Attorneys
Local Jewish attorneys included in this section completed a questionnaire that was emailed to attorneys and/or firms. The Q&A form was also available at columbusjewishnews.com. Some opted not to answer all questions and some answers were edited for clarity and brevity. To view the list of Local Lawyers / Super Attorneys online, including attorneys added after deadline, visit issuu.com/cjpc. Attorneys did not pay to be included in this directory. Compiled by Andrew Isaacs and Becky Raspe.
Mitchell Adel
Law firm: Cooper, Adel, Vu & Associates
Age: 49
Hometown: Columbus
Undergraduate: Ithaca College
Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Growing up in an extended Jewish family has helped me build a firm ethical foundation for my law practice. The teachings of my parents and grandparents guide me as I connect with clients, colleagues and the community. How do you unwind when not working? I enjoy traveling to visit with family. I also like playing golf, live music, puzzles and competitive games.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Trust the process and take the long road. Life doesn’t always unfold the way you expect, but with persistence and dedication, you can build something meaningful. Stay true to your values, and don’t rush into things. Focus on developing yourself and helping others along the way, as that’s where the real fulfillment comes from.
What is your favorite sports team? Buffalo Bills
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My deceased father. I realize with all the possibilities this seems silly, but his health and mind declined so rapidly, it was shock how little time we had. I would want one more night/conversation to have a chance at another memory that would echo long after.
Favorite local restaurant: Domo Sushi Kitchen Bar
First part-time job: Retail sales at Champs Sports
Do you have an Israel experience? In my 20s, I was selected to go on the March of the Living. My journey began with a few days in Poland, followed by a sunny week in Israel. The contrast between the emotional heaviness in Poland and the uplifting energy in Israel has stayed with me until this day.
Alex Alfonso
Law firm: Grossman
Law Offices
Age: 31
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Agudas
Achim
Undergraduate: DePaul University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism informs my moral compass. It guides how I make career choices, how I treat others, and how I raise the floor of my ethical obligations. How do you unwind when not working? Spend time with my spouse and our three dogs (Mishmish, Umberto, and Babayel), Hebrew calligraphy, cook, work out. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t worry so much about the end destination. All your memories and meaningful experiences occur along the journey.
What is your favorite sports team? The greatest team the world has ever seen: Columbus Crew
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Anthony Bourdain. I would love to have a conversation with him about the cultural memory and food and how this interplay is expressed in other societies and groups.
Favorite local restaurant: It’s a tie between Yoshi’s Japanese restaurant and Ginevra Cafe. Best Japanese and Somali food in Columbus respectively.
First part-time job: I was a lifeguard at a community pool in Blacklick. Do you have an Israel experience? So many. I spent 7 months learning Arabic and Hebrew at Givat Haviva and had the opportunity to meet many amazing people working towards a better future for all Israelis.
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Growing up in the Jewish community instilled in me values that have shaped both my professional and personal growth, including leadership, integrity, dedication and a strong work ethic. How do you unwind when not working? I enjoy spending time with my family, including my wife Meagan and our two kids, Stella, 2, and Wesley, 4. I also enjoy playing music and performing for charity causes in my band, Grassinine.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? I would explore the concept of authenticity, emphasizing the importance of discovering and embracing one’s true self, reminding myself that authenticity fundamentally influences both personal and professional fulfillment. By remaining true to ourselves, we foster genuine connections, uphold integrity in decisionmaking, and cultivate a strong sense of purpose.
What is your favorite sports teams? The Ohio State Buckeyes football (and Bengals too!)
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My grandfather, Isaac Kambelis, who came to Columbus from Greece during the Holocaust with his wife, Rachel, my grandmother, and his three daughters, Bella, Martha, and Sophie (my late mother), leaving family, some of whom were taken to concentration camps. He passed away from cancer when I was 13 years old. On his deathbed he told me that education is always my top priority and that he was not able to pursue his education.
Favorite local restaurant: Hard to say as Columbus has so many great choices. Probably Butcher and Rose right now – I am a steakhouse guy. But I always enjoy Lindey’s downtown, The Avenue, Martini, Barcelona and Tucci’s.
First part-time job: When I was 13, my aunt Marty was a real estate agent at Sibcy Cline Realtors in Cincinnati where I grew up, and got me a job in their relocation department helping make relocation packets for people moving to the Cincinnati area. I then got a few of my friends from school jobs working there with me, and it was a party.
Do you have an Israel experience? Yes, I was privileged to take a six-week group
trip with my youth group when I was 16, thanks to help from the Rockdale Temple (Cincinnati) Sisterhood’s scholarships as well as a national scholarship. That was memorable experience that I will never forget, including that time when the Jordan army held us at gunpoint for a few minutes along the border and when we almost got lost out on the Dead Sea.
David Bressman
Law firm: Bressman
Law
Age: 59
Hometown: Powell
Undergraduate: University of Dayton
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? It provides a moral foundation for an increasingly immoral world. How do you unwind when not working? Spoiling my grandkids and irritating my children
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Invest in Berkshire Hathaway. What is your favorite sports team? Cleveland Indians [never, ever, the Guardians]
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My 14-year-old self to inform him of all the mistakes he is going to make. Will be a long dinner.
Favorite local restaurant: The Hamburger Inc.
First part-time job: Delivering newspapers for the Norwalk Reflecto
Do you have an Israel experience? Took my family there when my boys were both 13. My wife and I want to go back especially to Caesarea.
Gwen Silverberg Callender
Organization: Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, Inc.
Age: 58
Hometown: Shaker Heights
Undergraduate:
University of WisconsinMadison
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How do you unwind when not working?
Workout, cook, read, go out and listen to live music with my partner Jeff Katz and our friends.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Stay in the moment and manifest what you want in life. What is your favorite sports team? Cleveland Browns
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My grandmother on my Dad’s side. I would want to share my journey exploring my Judaism with her that started after she passed away. There are so many traditions and wonderful memories I have of big family Shabbos dinners. She instilled in me what it means to be Jewish, not from a religious perspective but from a family tradition and cultural perspective. I want to thank her.
Favorite local restaurant: Columbus has so many great restaurants it is hard to pick just one. Chi Thai, Forno and the Sycamore are at the top of the list.
First part-time job: I worked part-time at the concession stand at the Vogue Movie Theater, an iconic movie theater in Shaker Heights that is no longer there.
Do you have an Israel experience? Yes, 10 years ago I went on a JWRP (now Momentum) trip. I made lifelong friends on that trip. I will never forget the feeling of being connected to the land in a profound way that has remained with me even though I have not been back, yet.
Robert Cohen
Law firm: Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP
Age: 73
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: Miami University
Law school: University of Cincinnati College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Jewish values, particularly respect for all people, are critical to any professional practice.
How do you unwind when not working? Pickleball
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Take more math in school. What is your favorite sports team? Columbus Clippers
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Thomas Jefferson. I would like to ask him to reconcile the language in the Declaration of Independence with his ownership of slaves.
Favorite local restaurant: Cafe Istanbul
First part-time job: Delivering the Citizen-
Journal
Do you have an Israel experience? I have been to Israel 4 times, and am looking forward to the community trip in October.
Robert G. Cohen
Law firm: Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter Co., L.P.A.
Age: 61
Hometown: Liberty Township
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Cultural Judaism’s focus on education and honesty created important guiding principles.
How do you unwind when not working? Spend time outdoors, swim, read and travel. I like to go somewhere where there is a beach.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Become a doctor.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Abraham Lincoln. I would be curious to hear both about his own personal life experiences and lessons, his changes in circumstances over his lifetime, and the difficult decisions he had to make for the country and how he made those decisions.
Favorite local restaurant: Moretti’s on Sawmill Road
First part-time job: Construction general laborer
Do you have an Israel experience? I’ve had two. First time was a three-week trip during college when my girlfriend was spending a year studying at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. She stayed. The highlight was attending a speech to a small group at the university given by Yitzhak Rabin. The second was a several week trip where I met my brother in Israel, and we traveled all over the country.
Law firm: Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter
Age: 52
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Temple Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law How do you unwind when not working? I prefer to unwind spending time with my family, riding my bicycle, or reading a good book.
Favorite sports team: Columbus Blue
Jackets
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Chef Michael Symon
Favorite local restaurant: Pelino’s Pasta
First part-time job: I worked at my father and uncle’s scrap metals business, Dana Salvage Company, where my dad first taught me about the importance of getting a good education. His hope was that I wouldn’t have to work as hard as he did. Do you have an Israel experience? My first trip to Israel was as a 6 year old when we went to see my grandfather. We stayed in the Tel Aviv apartment where my mom had grown up.
Jeffrey Fish
Law firm: Buck & Fish
Ltd.
Age: 59
Hometown: Pickerington
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: Capital University Law School
How do you unwind when not working?
Cooking and playing golf. Occasionally traveling, and spending time with friends when not attending our daughters’ performances. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Read the book “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” and be your own person. What is your favorite sports teams? Either the Buckeyes or University of Tennessee Volunteers football and basketball teams. If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Any of my grandparents to record more of our family history
Favorite local restaurant: The Refectory First part-time job: Delivering the Portsmouth Times newspaper
Scott Friedman
Law firm: Friedman & Mirman Co., L.P.A.
Age: 53
Hometown: New Albany
Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: Miami University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism has played a role in my career in several ways. One is networking. It is a large part of my business and being connected with the Jewish community helps with meeting people and making business relationships. How do you unwind when not working? Walk our dog, Lincoln. Exercise and binge
watch television series with my wife. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Progress not perfection. Be patient and think outside the box. What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State University Buckeyes If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My paternal grandfather who I never met. He died well before I was born. Why? I have heard many stories about him and would want to get to know him as an important part of my family history. Maybe he could bring my dad to dinner, I miss him terribly.
Favorite local restaurant: Several, including Ocean Club, Giuseppe’s, Kitchen Social and many more.
First part-time job: Painting vacant apartments in Columbus
Do you have an Israel experience? Yes, I traveled to Israel during college with family and friends. It was an amazing experience. I love Jerusalem, Mount Masada, the Dead Sea and many other places in Israel.
Tod Friedman
Organization: Schottenstein Stores Corporation
Age: 62
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Temple Israel and Beth Jacob Congregation
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: Syracuse University College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Jewish teachings provide a strong moral compass.
How do you unwind when not working? I cycle about 2500 miles per year. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Everything will work out. What is your favorite sports team? Any team my kids or grandkids play on. If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My mother because I miss her and I would like to fill her in on her family’s accomplishments.
First part-time job: Working the deli counter at Martins Kosher market
Do you have an Israel experience? My son winning USA’s first gold medal in soccer at the Maccabi games
Jacob Dobres
SUPER ATTORNEYS
Sandra Mendel Furman
Hometown: Columbus
Undergraduate:
Brandeis University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I place the highest value on fair treatment. Otherwise there is no justice. How do you unwind when not working?
Morning exercise most everyday at the JCC-swim-treadmill-weights. Reading fiction, attending classical and jazz concerts.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Listen before you speak. What is your favorite sports teams? Chicago Bulls when Jordan, et al., were playing.
Favorite local restaurant: Agni
First part-time job: C.I.T. at Camp Ora
Do you have an Israel experience? I was on the first community mission for teens in 1969 or 70-not sure. I spent my junior year of college there during the Yom Kippur War. I have been back four times since college. I hope to return soon.
Nelson Genshaft
Law firm: Strip Hoppers
Leithart McGrath & Terlecky, LPA Age: 76
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: University of Pennsylvania
Law school: Case Western Reserve University School of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Much of my volunteer time has been with Jewish agencies and many of my friends have come through volunteer work. How do you unwind when not working? Walking our dog
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Look for something exciting to do in life and build on that
What is your favorite sports team?
Cleveland Guardians
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Ben Franklin. He was at the center of so much history and politics
Favorite local restaurant: South Village Grille, Lindey’s and Figlio
First part-time job: Selling corn dogs at the County Fair
Ken Goldberg
Law firm: Strip Hoppers
Leithart McGrath & Terlecky, Co., LPA
Age: 60
Hometown: Dublin
Synagogue: Temple
Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: The College of William and Mary
Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I identify as a Jew and I’m certain Judaism has helped me more than hindered me throughout my career. How do you unwind when not working?
Long walks with my dog and listening to recorded books.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Pretty soon you’re going to take life more seriously.
What is your favorite sports team?
Washington Commanders
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Ulysses S. Grant because he had an amazing life.
Favorite local restaurant: The OG –Cameron’s American Bistro.
First part-time job: Stock boy at a large fruit and vegetable stand/store. Do you have an Israel experience? I have not traveled there but my kids did and had wonderful experiences.
David Goldstein
Law firm: David A Goldstein Co LPA
Hometown: Victorian Village
Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? The core values of Judaism have made me a caring and compassionate attorney. Part of my firm’s practice is to those who are underserved and do not necessarily have access to attorneys based upon their financial position. “Tzedakah.”
How do you unwind when not working? I enjoy playing golf, spending time with friends and family and an occasional vodka soda
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Take time to enjoy yourself before you enter the “real world” of work. Travel and see the world.
What is your favorite sports team?
Chicago Cubs
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My dad sine he has been gone
for almost 20 years would love to tell him how his grandkids are doing.
Favorite local restaurant: Lindey’s
First part-time job: I made egg rolls in the basement of the Kahiki
Robert Goldstein
Law firm: Robert R. Goldstein, Attorney at Law
Age: 59
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: The Torah Center
Undergraduate: Case Western Reserve University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism provides a basic framework of ethics and morality which pushes me to always try to do what’s best for others.
What advice would you give your 14-year-old self? Always be flexible and unpredictable. Things rarely work out the way you expect them to.
What is your favorite sports team? Columbus Blue Jackets
Favorite local restaurant: Either Saba’s, Matt’s, East Pizzeria or maybe OSU Hillel’s Bagel Cafe
First part-time job: I was a roadie for a bar mitzvah wedding band in Philadelphia. Do you have an Israel experience? I had my bar mitzvah at the Kollel. I also spent a summer in the 80’s as an ambassador of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland to the city of Neve Sharett.
Hugh Greentree
Organization: Internal Revenue Service
Age: 65
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t be so impatient to start your career. Consider joining the armed services before going to law school. Know that the woman you met on July 14, 1989, is the woman you will marry.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My father. He’s been gone 35 years and I would love to tell him what has happened.
Favorite local restaurant: Rubino’s First part-time job: Newspaper route
Andrew Grossman
Law firm: Grossman
Law Offices
Age: 54
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Beth Jacob
Congregation
Undergraduate: The University of Kansas Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I think that the ethics underlying Judaism are very similar to the ethical standards that govern lawyers’ actions and behavior.
How do you unwind when not working? Travel, tennis and red wine. Not necessarily in that order.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Put your bar mitzvah money in Nike stock
What is your favorite sports team? Kansas Jayhawks basketball team
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Toss up between Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway. I need help on my first novel.
Favorite local restaurant: Answering this will get me in trouble with a number of wonderful restaurateurs.
First part-time job: Assistant purchasing director of non-ferrous metal for The Recycling Exchange
Do you have an Israel experience? The b’nai mitzvah of our twins, Isle and Pierce, atop Masada on a clear day is pretty hard to beat.
Law firm: Hoffman Law Age: 66
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Beth Jacob Congregation
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? The Torah provides guidance in dealing with others
How do you unwind when not working? Road biking
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Dollar cost averaging
What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? It’s a tie. My parents. I miss them.
Favorite local restaurant: East Pizza First part-time job: Hoffman Container –loaded and unloaded trailers and drove a
Eric Hoffman
semi
Do you have an Israel experience? I met Menachem Begin at the King David Hotel in 1977.
Jordan Hoffman
Law firm: Hoffman Law Age: 30
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Beth Jacob
Congregation
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism provides me with a guide to live my daily life.
How do you unwind when not working?
The shvitz at the Columbus JCC
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? To try to think about the big picture
What is your favorite sports team? Ohio State Buckeyes football
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My great grandfather
Favorite local restaurant: East Pizza
First part-time job: JCC snack bar
Do you have an Israel experience? Yes –one of my most unforgettable experiences in Israel was driving from Tel Aviv to Eilat on my honeymoon with my wife Nicole.
Michael Jacobson
Law firm: Law Firm of Michael T. Jacobson Age: 72
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: American University Law school: Vermont Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? It is one of several sources I rely upon for ethics.
How do you unwind when not working?
Dancing, motorcycling, weight lifting and spending time with friends.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Always be honest, hard-working, and treat people with respect. I’ve always tried to follow this advice.
What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes, of course.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Abraham Lincoln. How he coped with everything and led our country is admirable.
Favorite local restaurant: Cafe Istanbul Dublin
First part-time job: Working for my father’s factoring company
Do you have an Israel experience? Besides my bar mitzvah visit, I took a law school course at Hebrew University.
Russell Kutell
Law firm: Frost Brown
Todd LLP
Age: 57
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Temple Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: University of Pennsylvania College of Arts and Sciences and Wharton School of Business
Law school: Georgetown University Law Center
Kimberly Land
Law firm: Bailey Cavalieri LLC
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: University of Dayton (Go Flyers)
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How do you unwind when not working?
Snuggling with my baby boy, Lukas
What is your favorite sports team?
Anything Bexley Lions
Favorite local restaurant: Zen Chai
First part-time job: Farm hand at a horse farm
Joseph Lipps
Law firm: Bailey Cavalieri, LLC
Age: 38
Hometown: Cincinnati Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? The small Jewish network is a great way to find commonalities and establish relationships with other attorneys.
How do you unwind when not working? By running and spending time with our kids What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t stress about your missed shots, goals or hits. You don’t have a future as a professional athlete.
What is your favorite sports team?
Cincinnati Reds
If you could have dinner with any one
person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My wife without our two kids sitting on our laps because that is very rare occurrence.
Favorite local restaurant: Chapman’s Eat Market
First part-time job: Summer camp
Steven Loewengart
Law firm: Fisher & Phillips LLP
Age: 72
Hometown: Dublin
Synagogue: Temple
Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: Northwestern University
Law school: University of Cincinnati College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I am the son of German refugees. This has given me strong feelings about the harmful effects of disrespecting or “otherizing.” I try to treat clients and opposing parties with understanding and tolerance even when it isn’t so easy. I deal with a lot of employment litigation and use this tolerance to try to help opponents see each other’s points of view, often resulting in successful compromises. How do you unwind when not working? I love music, reading novels and non fiction, cycling, skiing and enjoying the outdoors. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Most setbacks have a silver lining even if that’s not apparent at the time. Most worries are a waste of time as long as you hold on to your principles.
What is your favorite sports team? Ohio State, of course
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Bach or Mozart, preferably both. Favorite local restaurant: Cento First part-time job: Cleaning pools
Do you have an Israel experience? Not yet.
Harlan Louis
Law firm: Bailey Cavalieri LLC Age: 58
Hometown: Grandview Heights
Synagogue: Temple Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: Miami University
Law school: University of Dayton School of Law and University of Florida Levin College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I read all legal decisions right-toleft.
How do you unwind when not working? By preparing for work.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Stay away from dishonest people. What is your favorite sports teams? Cincinnati Reds
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My father. He was my hero and I miss him.
Favorite local restaurant: Skyline Chili. Obviously.
First part-time job: Stocking shelves at Bettman’s Pharmacy.
Pamela Maggied
Law firm: Pamela N Maggied CO., LPA Age: 72
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue:
Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: Ohio University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I got my first law job after my father told Mitch Cohen about me, at the JCC.
How do you unwind when not working? Walking and listening to music. Also reading, going to the theater, and watching women’s basketball games on TV and in person.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Do not get braces. What is your favorite sports team? Ohio State women’s basketball. I am a season ticket holder.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My grandmother, so I could ask her about her life.
First part-time job: Babysitting – at 35 cents per hour
Jodie Meizlish
Law firm: Golden & Meizlish Co., LPA
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Temple
Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: Kent State University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? I try to apply the principles of Jewish ethics and charitable acts. How do you unwind when not working? I enjoy reading a variety of books, am a political junkie, taking long walks and cooking.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Make some different decisions
SUPER ATTORNEYS
What is your favorite sports teams? Boston Red Sox
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Elie Wiesel
Favorite local restaurant: Scali Ristoranti
First part-time job: I worked at a bookstore for a summer and waitressed for two weeks
Law firm: Bailey Cavalieri LLC
Age: 31
Hometown: Columbus
Undergraduate: University of Rochester
Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism has deeply shaped my legal career, emphasizing ethical responsibility and community service. My faith fosters a strong sense of duty to serve my clients and community, ensuring that my work aligns with principles of justice, fairness and making a meaningful impact in the legal field.
How do you unwind when not working? When not working, I spend time with my family and friends. My wife, Julie, and I have the joy of raising our son, Jack, with both our families in town.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Never get too caught up in the moment that you forget to see the bigger picture.
What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? I would choose Adam Sandler because he is a favorite around our household.
Favorite local restaurant: Akai Hana
First part-time job: Making and packing shipping crates in a manufacturing warehouse.
Do you have an Israel experience? I lived in Israel for just about 2 years, from 2016 to 2018. During that time, I played professional basketball in Israel’s Winners and Leumit Leagues for the basketball clubs Ironi Nahariya and Hapoel Haifa.
Joel Moore
Deane School of Law at Hofstra University
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism’s emphasis on justice, ethics, fairness, advocacy and learning has positively shaped my career. I have always strongly believed in fairness and advocacy which leads to my deep commitment to advocating for clients with compassion. How do you unwind when not working? I love spending time with my family and finding adventures. I particularly like hiking and mountain biking, as it’s something I grew up doing in California. What advice would you give your 14-year-old self? Trust yourself more. Doubt is natural, but don’t let it control you. At 14, you second-guess everything, but confidence comes from action, not perfection. Mistakes won’t break you; they’ll teach you. Be mindful, be present. Breathe and take life step by step. Life can be tough but so are you. Keep learning, be kind, and never forget who you are and why.
What is your favorite sports team? San Francisco 49ers.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My maternal grandfather. He passed before I was born and my mother constantly tells me how similar I am to him. I would love to have known him.
Favorite local restaurant: Drelyse – a hidden gem
First part-time job: A counselor at summer camp
Do you have an Israel experience? I was fortunate enough to go on the first Birthright Israel trip in 1999-2000. Walking Jerusalem’s ancient streets, touching the Western Wall, and experiencing Israel’s beauty made my heritage feel real. Seeing it firsthand gave me a profound sense of belonging and pride, strengthening my identity in ways I never imagined.
Steven Nobil
Law firm: Fisher Phillips
Hometown: Aurora
Synagogue: Temple Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: Baldwin
Wallace University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My father and/or my mother so that I could let them know how much I loved them and thank them for giving me the strength, beliefs and fortitude that have made me who I am.
Favorite local restaurant: There are far too many great restaurants in the Columbus area for me to make that choice.
First part-time job: Early morning paper delivery, mowing grass and shoveling snow for the neighborhood.
Ronald Petroff
Law firm: Petroff, Smitherman & Associates, LLC
Age: 44
Hometown: New Albany
Synagogue: Temple
Beth Shalom
Undergraduate: Vanderbilt University
Law school: The Ohio State University
Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Cultural affinity
How do you unwind when not working? Tennis, pickleball, paddle and traveling with my family
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Learn how to play golf well What is your favorite sports team? Cleveland Browns
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Larry David
Favorite local restaurant: Ocean Club
First part-time job: Delivering jewelry
Larry Pliskin
Law firm: Law Office of Larry Pliskin
Age: 58
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: University of Pennsylvania
Law school: Boston University School of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Always conduct myself with the highest ethics
missed so much of my life since he passed years ago, and I would love to fill him in
Favorite local restaurant: Sababa
First part-time job: Bexley Public Library
Do you have an Israel experience? Winter break senior year in college
Frederic Portman
Law firm: Agee, Clymer, Mitchell & Portman
Age: 77
Hometown: Columbus Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Taught me compassion
How do you unwind when not working? Reading, travel, golf and deciding whether to try pickleball.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Think twice before doing something stupid which I failed to do in my youth.
What is your favorite sports teams? Ohio State Buckeyes football
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? The person who wrote these questions and why they were chosen. Favorite local restaurant: Giuseppe’s First part-time job: Bag Boy at Martin’s Grocery Store
Seth Preisler
Law firm: Chodosh & Chodosh
Hometown: Bexley
Undergraduate: Miami University
Law school: Case Western Reserve University School Law
How do you unwind when not working? I am a wrestling coach for Bexley High School. It’s a great stress reliever
What is your favorite sports team? Unfortunately, the Browns. But, if I want to see a modicum success, Ohio State Wrestling.
Law firm: Law Office of Joel Moore
Age: 44
Hometown: Dublin
Synagogue: Congregation Beth Tikvah
Undergraduate: UCLA
Law school: Maurice A.
How do you unwind when not working? I unwind by working out, playing the piano and golf and watching our local professional sports teams
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Learn from your mistakes, plan for your future and work like hell to make your dreams become your future
What is your favorite sports teams?
Cleveland Browns
How do you unwind when not working? Walk my dog
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Be open to change, because it will come whether you want it or not
What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My father, because he has
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Larry David. An in-person meal with Larry would be the most entertaining event ever.
Favorite local restaurant: Scotty’s Cafe. The food is great but the environment is better.
Kenneth Rubin
Law firm: Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP
Age: 48
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Congregation Agudas Achim
Undergraduate: Northeastern University Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaic learning methods provide the base for analyzing problems. Judaism as a whole keeps me grounded in the community.
How do you unwind when not working? Spending time with family and traveling. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? To not wait until your early 20s to work hard at school.
What is your favorite sports team? Boston Red Sox
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My maternal grandfather. He passed away when my mother was 15. My mother frequently said I was a lot like him and I would like to meet him.
Favorite local restaurant: Basi Italia First part-time job: Pumping gas at a gas station in New Jersey
Do you have an Israel experience? In February 2024, I volunteered with Sar-El, an organization that provides volunteer logistical support to the IDF. It was important to me to physically support Israel after Oct. 7, 2023. I spent a week on an air force base in the Negev, and a week on a combat training base east of Haifa. I am going to Israel in April with my youngest and we are visiting with a reservist I became friends with.
Joshua Sanders
Law firm: Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP
Age: 50
Hometown: Granville
Synagogue: Temple Israel
Undergraduate: Ohio Wesleyan University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? We talk about tikkun olam often at services and I try to bring that to my practice. I like to think that I am repairing a small piece of the world for every one of my clients.
How do you unwind when not working? An evening walk with my dog, Lucky, and my wife, Aimee, is a great way to unwind.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? It is amazing how small the world is and how people you meet seem to come back into your life. Treat everyone like you may see them again.
What is your favorite sports team? Ohio State Buckeyes. I went to the National Championship with my two daughters and younger sister. It’s an experience I will never forget.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? I would love to have dinner with Lorne Michaels from “Saturday Night Live.” My wife and I watch each episode and would love to hear the inside story of the show.
Favorite local restaurant: Palumbo’s Italian Market. They have wonderful prepared food that is perfect to pick-up for an easy and delicious dinner. They also have an amazing wine selection.
First part-time job: Bagging groceries at the Kroger in Reynoldsburg. It was a terrific job and I still insist on bagging my own groceries when we go shopping. Do you have an Israel experience? We traveled as a family to Israel in 2017. The trip was organized by our amazing cantor at Temple Israel and was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. It gave my entire family such a great appreciation for Israel and its people. I can’t wait to go back on the community trip in October.
James Schottenstein
Law firm: Schottenstein Legal Services Co., LPA Age: 78
Hometown: Columbus Synagogue: Congregation Agudas Achim and Congregation Torat Emet
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and New York University School of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? My religious beliefs and practices have served as a foundation to both my legal career and my endeavors in real estate and business. While I am far from becoming a biblical scholar, the essence of being a righteous person is similar to trying to maintain ethical standards in both business and the practice of law. How do you unwind when not working? I spend as much time with family as possible sharing shows, musicals, sports and family events. When my 120 years are up, no one will remember how many billable hours I logged, they will only remember the time you shared with them. What advice would you give your 14-year-
old self? At the age of 14, I did not recognize how quickly time passes. Each day that you are given is special and you must squeeze the joy out of every minute that you get. At 14 years of age, I would advise myself to cherish the time I had remaining with my parents and friends. What is your favorite sports team? The only sports team that can move me from joy to anger and back again is The Ohio State Buckeye football team. If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Golda Meir. She was raised in Kiev, Ukraine of the Soviet Union at the time, came to America, taught school, and rose to become the head of the State of Israel. My parents met with her and I have marveled at her accomplishments. Her statement that “There will be peace when the Arabs love their children more than they hate us” is classic. I also love “Don’t be humble; you’re not that great.”
Favorite local restaurant: Another year and it is still the Ocean Club at Easton. The blackened snapper is a favorite as is the Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli. The view on the terrace even in cooler weather, with heaters, is enjoyable.
First part-time job: My father had me sorting the paper cartons in a wooden case of soft drinks at the age of 8. By 9, I was selling Pepsi Cola in the grandstands at the Ohio State Fair. I made three cents on a small cup and five cents on the large. I spent all my earnings on games at the Fair. As I grew older, I would learn every part of the soft drink business.
Do you have an Israel experience? I was in Israel three times: 1971; 1992; and 2017. The changes I have observed are striking. In 1971, I spent a month traveling on my own. In 1992, I went with the Columbus Jewish Federation, and in 2017, I traveled with my wife and a private tour guide. I have climbed Mt. Masada at 4 a.m.; slept on a Kibbutz; stayed in the Arab quarter after the 1967 War and prayed at the Kotel.
Michael Schottenstein
Law firm: Kegler Brown
Hill + Ritter
Age: 38
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth
Israel
Undergraduate:
Syracuse University
Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How do you unwind when not working? Walking the dog
What is your favorite sports team? Besides my college sports teams (the Orange and Buckeyes), the Cleveland
Guardians
Favorite local restaurant: The Top Steak House
First part-time job: Cleaning gutters, landscaping and helping to turn down units at an apartment complex
Do you have an Israel experience? I have been to Israel five times. My first trip was on Birthright and the last was for a family wedding. On that trip, my wife had her first Israel experience. Drawing from my time on Birthright, I tried to recreate that for her as we drove around the country. We hoped to attend the upcoming JewishColumbus mission, but we’re expecting so we won’t be able to make it. We’ll be there in spirit.
Douglas Segerman
Law firm: Luper Neidenthal & Logan, L.P.A.
Age: 54
Hometown: Bexley
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth
Israel
Undergraduate:
University of Cincinnati Law school: University of Cincinnati College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? It has been the foundation for the basic focuses that I have in my legal practice. Being ethical, treating others fairly and in a respectful way, and questioning the status quo and those that seek to apply the law unfairly.
How do you unwind when not working? I enjoy spending time with friends and family, watching sports events and watching movies and television shows with my wife.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Be patient and focus on the things that you can control.
What is your favorite sports team? That is a tough one. I am a lifetime Cincinnati sports fan. It would be a tie between the Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team. If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My father, Elliot Segerman. My father passed away when I was 33 years old. I would love to bring him up to date on what has occurred since then with me, my siblings and his grandchildren and to get his thoughts on advice on things currently going on in the world.
Favorite local restaurant: My family and I love the Mad Greek on East Broad Street. We have been regular visitors for over 20 years and the owner and staff have always been wonderful in treating us like family. First part-time job: I worked at my family’s
dry cleaners. That experience helped me to learn how to deal with people from diverse places and experiences.
Jodi Smilack
Law firm: Grossman Law Offices
Age: 42
Hometown: Columbus
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Law school: John Marshall Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Its emphasis on asking questions encourages critical thinking, challenging assumptions, and exploring diverse perspectives – all of which are valuable skills as a family law attorney.
What is your favorite sports team? Michigan Wolverines. Go Blue.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? My grandfathers. They both passed away long before I was born. First part-time job: Snack bar at the Bexley Pool
Roni Sokol
Law firm: The Sokol Law Firm, LLC
Age: 58
Hometown: New Albany
Undergraduate: UCLA
Law school: Southwestern Law School
How do you unwind when not working? I love taking Zumba classes.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t believe them when they tell you that you can’t do it.
Do you have an Israel experience? I traveled to Israel last summer on a volunteer mission. This was my fifth trip to Israel. It was rewarding, as always.
David Stein
Law firm: Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP
Age: 60
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your
career? Judaism’s principles form the basis of the practice of law.
How do you unwind when not working? Time with my family, play with my dog, listen to music.
What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t worry – be happy. What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? My grandfather
Favorite local restaurant: Adriatico’s
First part-time job: Martin’s Kosher Foods –bagging groceries
Do you have an Israel experience? Being at the Kotel during Kabbalat Shabbat is a wonderful and inspiring experience.
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University Law school: The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? It encourages me to assist those in need.
How do you unwind when not working? I spend time in my workshop and also building large historical ship models. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Work hard to escape poverty
What is your favorite sports team?
O-H-I-O
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Alexander Hamilton because he had the greatest mind our government ever had.
Favorite local restaurant: Lindey’s First part-time job: I was a stock clerk at Sears for $1.05 per hour.
Do you have an Israel experience? I had a Friday night dinner under a lemon tree with 22 family members.
Benjamin Zacks
Law firm: Zacks Law
LLC
Age: 64
Hometown: Columbus
Synagogue: Congregation
Beth Tikvah and Congregation Tifereth Israel
Undergraduate: The Ohio State University and University of Arizona
Law school: Capital University Law School
How has Judaism played a role in your career? It shaped me to pursue justice and ethical entrepreneurism. Jewish laws permeate in democratic societies, and it’s been my pleasure to help people, businesses and families face legal challenges, prosper and growing businesses with ‘sechel’ and practical principled attention.
How do you unwind when not working? Family, friends, music, sports and volunteering. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time. Keep to your values and everything else will work out. What is your favorite sports team? The Ohio State Buckeyes
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? King Solomon. To appreciate that wisdom and action when life is limited by time means that we can only comprehend the life we choose and as Hashem intended we face adversity patiently, with measured actions and humbly stand in other’s shoes when making judgments.
Favorite local restaurant: Rubino’s Pizza and so many others
First part-time job: Store shelf stocker at Shotty’s, then Kroger’s bagger
Do you have an Israel experience? The Columbus Federation cohort with Mary Beth (my wife), led by Michael and Vicki Canter, after the 1993 Peace Accords experiencing the River Jordan from Golan to Jerusalem, and Yad Vashem when I saw my son’s face it seemed among the children’s faces.
Andrew Zashin
Law firm: Zashin Law
Age: 57
Hometown: Pepper Pike
Synagogue: Chabad
Undergraduate: Brown University Law school: Case Western Reserve University School of Law
How has Judaism played a role in your career? Judaism, and Zionism in particular, have given me the opportunity to travel abroad. That, in turn, gave me a unique opportunity to launch an international family law practice. Now, in addition to our well known success in family law, our firm is regarded as one of the premier international law firms in the United States and the world.
How do you unwind when not working? I study trends in family law and have taught at the Case Western Reserve University School of Law for over 20 years. I write about these issues in lay publications and in academic journals. I passionately follow current events. I also love to play with my giant mastiff, Hugo the Boerboel. What advice would you give your 14-yearold self? Don’t take things too seriously. Time is short, enjoy each day. What is your favorite sports team?
Cleveland Guardians
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or deceased, who would it be? Why? Theodore Herzl. He was a Jewish visionary and he was just plain right. He knew after the Dreyfus Affair in France that the Jews in France and Europe were living on borrowed time, and for the safety of the Jewish people, they needed a home in our ancestral land. He more than anyone else, excuse the pun, put Israel on the map. He predicted that in 50 years Israel would exist. He was exactly right.
Favorite local restaurant: That is on a need-to-know basis.
First part-time job: I worked with my father, the premier family law attorney of his day, for as long as I can remember. He took me to work with him all the time. I went to his office, to meetings, and he took me to court. In one case, my presence in the courtroom so upset the other side that when the other party lost, one of their grounds on appeal was that I sat through the trial.
Do you have an Israel experience? Yes, my family is committed to the state of Israel. Four of my children, and my son-in-law to be, served, and are currently serving, in the Israel Defense Forces. Next year, my youngest will also start her service.
