We are proud to foster an environment where attorneys are encouraged to collaborate, develop their skills, and pursue excellence on behalf of every client we serve. The continued recognition of our attorneys by their peers is a testament to their dedication, integrity, and the high standard of service that defines our firm.

Since its inaugural publication in 1983, Best Lawyers® has become one of the legal profession’s most respected peer-reviewed publications. Attorneys recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® are selected through a rigorous evaluation process based exclusively on peer feedback, recognizing lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional professional ability and earned the respect of their colleagues within their practice areas and geographic regions.

The following lawyers have been named to the 2027 Edition of Best Lawyers®.

• Ann-Marie Ahern – Employment Law – Individuals, Employment Law – Management, Litigation – Labor and Employment
• Hugh D. Berkson – Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Securities
• David M. Cuppage – Commercial Litigation, Corporate Law, Litigation – Construction, Litigation – Real Estate
• Brian P. Farnan – Banking and Finance Law, Commercial Finance Law
• Danielle G. Garson – Corporate Law, Real Estate Law
• Rob Glickman – Commercial Litigation, Criminal Defense: General Practice, Criminal Defense: White-Collar, Litigation – Insurance, Litigation – Labor and Employment, Litigation – Mergers and Acquisitions
• Jennifer R. Hallos – Tax Law, Trusts and Estates
• Tobias J. Hirshman – Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs
• Kimon P. Karas – Tax Law, Trusts and Estates
• Robert R. Kracht – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Bankruptcy
• Kenneth B. Liffman – Banking and Finance Law, Corporate Law, Litigation – Real Estate, Mergers and Acquisitions Law, Real Estate Law
• David A. Lum – Corporate Law, Real Estate Law
• Michael D. Makofsky – Banking and Finance Law, Commercial Finance Law, Mergers and Acquisitions Law
• Jack E. Moran – Employment Law – Individuals, Employment Law – Management, Litigation – Labor and Employment
• Charles A. Nemer – Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Real Estate, Municipal Law, Real Estate Law
• Christian R. Patno – Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs, Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs
• Andrew S. Perry – Real Estate Law
• Richard A. Rabb – Family Law, Family Law Arbitration
• Colin R. Ray – Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs, Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs
• David A. Schaefer – Arbitration, Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Construction, Litigation – Insurance, Litigation – Labor and Employment, Mediation
• John S. Seich – Litigation – Trusts and Estates, Tax Law, Trusts and Estates
• E. Roger Stewart – Corporate Law, Tax Law, Trusts & Estates
• Mark I. Wallach – Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Labor and Employment, Litigation – Municipal

The following lawyers have been recognized in the 2027 Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch®.

• Frank T. George – Labor and Employment Law – Employee, Litigation – Labor and Employment
• Adam Glassman – Banking and Finance Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law
• Morgan E. Helgreen – Family Law
• Taylor S. Mehalko – Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Real Estate, Real Estate Law

Read more about the Best Lawyers® methodology for selection.

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Ann-Marie, Co-Managing Principal and head of the firm’s Employment Law group, has dedicated her career to representing individuals in employment disputes. Throughout her career, she has successfully litigated hundreds of employment disputes and has obtained verdicts and settlements in totaling more than $70 million. Her extensive experience, strategic advocacy, and unwavering commitment to her clients have earned her a reputation as one of Ohio’s leading employment attorneys.

In this year’s Edition of Ohio Super Lawyers®, Ann-Marie was ranked on the following “Top Lists” in the practice area of Employment Litigation: Plaintiff in the state of Ohio.

• Top 100: 2027 Ohio Super Lawyers
• Top 50: 2027 Women Ohio Super Lawyers

Additionally, she was ranked on the following “Top List” in the practice area of Employment Litigation: Plaintiff in the Cleveland, Ohio metropolitan area.

• Top 50: 2027 Cleveland Super Lawyers

As an Ohio State Bar Association Certified Specialist in Employment & Labor Law, Ann-Marie possesses extensive knowledge across all facets of employment law. She combines deep legal experience with a thoughtful, client-centered approach, recognizing that a career represents far more than a paycheck. Because the loss of employment can have profound personal and financial consequences, she is committed to guiding clients through every stage of the legal process with skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Known for her strategic advocacy and practical counsel, Ann-Marie is valued not only as an accomplished litigator, but also as a trusted advisor who empowers clients to make informed decisions and confidently move forward.

Ohio Super Lawyers® honors outstanding attorneys through a rigorous selection process that combines peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations by fellow members of the legal profession. Attorneys who achieve the highest overall scores receive additional distinction through inclusion on the publication’s exclusive Ohio Super Lawyers® “Top Lists,” recognizing them among the state’s most accomplished legal professionals. Read more about the Super Lawyers® methodology for selection.

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In the 2027 Edition of Ohio Super Lawyers®, Christian retained his preeminent #2 Super Lawyers® standing at the top of the state’s most accomplished and respected attorneys. His sustained recognition by judges, fellow lawyers, and blue-ribbon panels for more than two decades, coupled with his distinction as one of Ohio’s highest-ranked attorneys, reflects a career defined by exceptional client advocacy, consistently outstanding results, and the unwavering respect and confidence of his peers throughout the state’s legal community.

Overseeing McCarthy Lebit’s Personal Injury & Wrongful Death practice, Christian is nationally recognized for his work on catastrophic personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and defamation matters.

For more than 36 years, Christian has been among the first attorneys trusted by lawyers, judges, physicians, business leaders, and other professionals when recommending counsel for catastrophic injury and wrongful death matters in Ohio. Backed by experience in more than 100 jury trials and a proven record of securing numerous eight-figure verdicts and settlements, he has earned a statewide reputation as one of Ohio’s leading advocates for plaintiffs in complex, high-stakes litigation.

Ohio Super Lawyers® honors outstanding attorneys through a rigorous selection process that combines peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations by fellow members of the legal profession. Attorneys who achieve the highest overall scores receive additional distinction through inclusion on the publication’s exclusive Ohio Super Lawyers® “Top Lists,” recognizing them among the state’s most accomplished legal professionals. Read more about the Super Lawyers® methodology for selection.

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Ohio Super Lawyers® honors outstanding attorneys through a rigorous selection process that combines peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations by fellow members of the legal profession. Attorneys who achieve the highest overall scores receive additional distinction through inclusion on the publication’s exclusive Ohio Super Lawyers® “Top Lists,” recognizing them among the state’s most accomplished legal professionals.

The following lawyers have been recognized on the 2027 Ohio Super Lawyers® “Top Lists” in their respective practice areas.

• Christian R. Patno – Ranked #2 in the Top 10 out of all lawyers in the state of Ohio
• Ann-Marie Ahern – Top 100 Ohio, Top 50 Women Ohio, Top 50 Cleveland

Few attorneys achieve the level of sustained recognition that Ann-Marie and Christian have earned from Ohio Super Lawyers®. Christian has been selected every year since the publication’s inaugural 2004 edition, and Ann-Marie has received the honor for 19 consecutive years. Their consistent inclusion on Ohio Super Lawyers® “Top Lists” further reflects the high regard they have earned within Ohio’s legal community and recognizes their longstanding excellence in the profession.

The well-deserved recognition earned by Ann-Marie and Christian reflects a broader tradition of excellence at McCarthy Lebit. Year after year, a substantial number of the firm’s attorneys are recognized by Ohio Super Lawyers®, reflecting the depth of talent, experience, and professional respect that extends across our practice areas. This consistent recognition underscores the firm’s longstanding commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel and achieving outstanding results for our clients.

The following lawyers have been recognized in the 2027 Edition of Ohio Super Lawyers®.

• Ann-Marie Ahern – Employment Litigation: Plaintiff
• Hugh D. Berkson – Securities Litigation
• David M. Cuppage – Business Litigation
• Danielle G. Garson – Real Estate
• Rob Glickman – General Litigation
• Robert R. Kracht – Business Litigation
• Kenneth B. Liffman – Real Estate
• David A. Lum – Closely Held Business
• Michael D. Makofsky – Banking
• Jack E. Moran – Employment Litigation: Plaintiff
• Charles A. Nemer – Closely Held Business
• Christian R. Patno – Personal Injury General: Plaintiff
• Andrew S. Perry – Real Estate
• Richard A. Rabb – Family Law
• Colin R. Ray – PI General: Plaintiff
• David A. Schaefer – Civil Litigation: Defense
• John S. Seich – Estate & Probate
• Mark I. Wallach – Business Litigation

The following lawyers have been recognized in the 2027 Edition of Ohio Super Lawyers: Rising Stars®.

• Anthony A. Duckett – General Litigation
• Frank T. George – Employment Litigation: Plaintiff
• Adam Glassman – Real Estate
• Morgan E. Helgreen – Family Law
• Taylor S. Mehalko – Criminal Defense
• Jenna C. Sholk – Family Law

Read more about the Ohio Super Lawyers® methodology for selection.

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As Of Counsel in the firm’s Family Law group, Morgan’s legal practice spans a wide range of domestic relations matters. Combining her extensive litigation and alternative dispute resolution experience, she provides clients with strategic legal representation and compassionate guidance through some of life’s most difficult transitions.

Morgan has long been an active leader within the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation. A dedicated member of the CMBA’s Family Law Section, she previously served two consecutive terms as section chair and currently serves on the section’s Executive Council. She has also been a member of the Foundation’s Board for three years and has served on its Executive Committee for the past two years. Since 2024, she has been a Cleveland Metropolitan Foundation Fellow, an honor bestowed upon distinguished members of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association who demonstrate professional excellence, the highest standards of integrity, and a devotion to advancing justice. Fellows are nominated by their peers, recommended by the Foundation’s Fellows Committee, and approved by both the Foundation and Association Boards. Morgan’s longstanding involvement with the Foundation reflects her dedication to strengthening the legal profession and serving the Greater Cleveland community through initiatives that make a lasting difference both within and beyond the legal community.

In a recent feature in the July/August 2026 issue of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association (CMBA) Bar Journal, Morgan reflected on what moving the bar forward means to her. She shared, “To me, moving the CMBA forward means intentionally adapting to an ever-changing world by embracing new technology, modernizing member services, and responding to evolving needs, all while remaining firmly rooted at the heart of Cleveland’s legal community.”

The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation are dedicated to advancing the legal profession and serving the Greater Cleveland community. Through advocacy, education, professional development, and community engagement, the CMBA supports attorneys and promotes the highest standards of the legal profession. The CMBF builds upon this mission by advancing initiatives that strengthen the profession, expand access to justice, and support programs that benefit the community, including educational opportunities for future legal professionals and civic leaders. Together, the CMBA and CMBF work to promote fairness, opportunity, and a stronger legal community throughout Northeast Ohio.

“Morgan’s place on the Foundation Board reflects her dedication to our profession. I can say with confidence that the CMBAF is fortunate to have her as a member of its Board. Her dedication, insight, and intellect will undoubtedly strengthen the Foundation and contribute meaningfully to its continued success,” said Richard Rabb, Principal of McCarthy Lebit’s Family Law group.

If you are interested in learning more about Morgan, click here to view her professional bio.

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Morgan represents clients in a wide range of domestic relations matters. Her practice encompasses divorce and dissolution proceedings, allocation of parental rights and responsibilities, parenting time disputes, child and spousal support matters, post-decree modifications, protection orders, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. She works closely with clients to navigate complex family law issues, develop practical solutions tailored to their unique circumstances, and protect their interests during some of the most significant transitions in their lives.

Through a combination of her litigation and alternative dispute resolution experience, Morgan brings extensive experience navigating complex domestic relations matters and advocating for clients through challenging legal proceedings. Her well-rounded skill set, sound judgment, and client-centered approach make her a valuable addition to the firm’s Family Law group.

“Morgan’s mindset fits right in, complementing the balance of the Family Law group. She brings a refined skill set, some of which has been learned and the rest of which is instinctive. Her experience has allowed her to gain the respect of both her peers and members of the bench, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the firm,” said Principal of McCarthy Lebit’s Family Law group, Richard Rabb.

Morgan earned her Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Prior to law school, she earned a Bachelor of Science, cum laude, from Texas Christian University, where she double majored in Strategic Communications and Political Science. She was admitted to practice law in 2019 and is admitted to practice before all Ohio courts.

“I am excited to join McCarthy Lebit. The firm’s reputation speaks for itself, and I look forward to working with this talented team to support our clients on their most important matters.,” added Morgan Helgreen.

If you are interested in learning more about Morgan, click here to visit her professional bio.

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Colin is a Principal attorney in the firm’s Personal Injury & Wrongful Death and Litigation groups. He devotes the vast majority of his practice to personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death matters. Colin’s role as CATA President follows years of dedicated leadership and service within the organization. Prior to assuming the presidency, he served as Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. His contributions have also been recognized through two of the organization’s highest honors, Outstanding Service Award and the President’s Award. Colin’s progression through these leadership demonstrates his longstanding commitment to CATA’s mission, his fellow trial attorneys, and the advancement of the legal profession.

The Cleveland Academy of Trial Attorneys is a professional organization comprised of attorneys who advocate for individuals injured in a wide range of personal injury matters, including medical malpractice, workers’ compensation, and product liability claims. Founded in 1959 by a distinguished group of Cleveland trial lawyers, the organization remains committed to advancing the practice of plaintiff advocacy through high-quality educational programming and professional development opportunities that help attorneys better serve their clients.

“Colin, among his peers, has worked hard to develop into one of Ohio’s premier trial and appellate injury lawyers,” said Christian Patno, McCarthy Lebit Principal and head of the firm’s Personal Injury & Wrongful Death group. “It has been a true pleasure working alongside Colin, relying on him and his invaluable help and support, as well as watching his development. As President of CATA, Colin has been clearly recognized by his peers for his experience and true leadership skills. Heartfelt congratulations for this recognition of my partner.”

Additionally, Colin has received recognition from Ohio Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers®, both peer-reviewed honors, for his distinguished work in personal injury law, reflecting his reputation for excellence in the field.

If you are interested in learning more about Colin, click here to view his professional bio.

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Ann-Marie, alongside Lawrence E. Oscar of Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP, received the 2026 ORT Jurisprudence Award. Since its inception in 1996, the Jurisprudence Award has celebrated attorneys and jurists whose careers reflect the highest standards of integrity, professional excellence, and meaningful civic involvement. Ann-Marie and Larry have both exhibited outstanding leadership and forward-thinking throughout their careers. Their professional achievements and dedication to civic engagement embody the core principles upon which this award was founded. Follow the link to read more about Ann-Marie and her selection as the 2026 Jurisprudence Award recipient.

This year’s event also included well-deserved recognition of Kenneth Liffman. As one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Jurisprudence Award in 1996, Kenneth played an instrumental role in establishing what has become a distinguished Cleveland tradition. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession helped lay the foundation for three decades of honoring attorneys and jurists whose careers exemplify integrity, excellence, and service. In recognition of his lasting contributions and the enduring legacy he helped create, Kenneth was honored at this year’s ceremony for his exceptional dedication to the legal community.

The firm is honored to celebrate Ann-Marie and Kenneth for their continued leadership and meaningful service to both the legal profession and the Cleveland community.

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ORT is a global education network driven by Jewish values and innovation, preparing people and communities for meaningful, self-sufficient futures. The ORT network reaches more than 200,000 people a year in schools, universities, and vocational training programs in more than 30 countries. We bridge the gap between ability and opportunity by providing leading science and technology education. ORT America consists of thousands of people throughout the United States who share a common, binding interest in supporting ORT, Israel and the Jewish people. ORT America is headquartered in New York, with regional offices in California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. For more information, please visit www.ortamerica.org.

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Blake’s practice focuses on estate planning and business advisory services for individuals and small businesses. He works closely with clients to develop tailored planning strategies and prepares wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives. He also advises on business succession planning, entity restructuring, real estate transactions, and tax considerations, recognizing that effective planning often requires coordination across multiple areas of law.

As an addition to the Trusts & Estates group, Blake brings a well-rounded and strategic perspective, shaped by his experience in estate and trust administration, business matters, and litigation. His ability to proactively identify potential challenges allows him to guide clients toward practical and comprehensive outcomes aligned with their goals.

Blake earned his undergraduate degree in Political Theory from Michigan State University and his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law and was admitted to practice in 2019. Over the course of his career, Blake has handled personal injury matters resulting in multiple six-figure settlements, as well as contested hearings and bench trials in family law and commercial disputes. This experience informs his proactive and strategic counsel.

“I am excited to join McCarthy Lebit and take the next step in my career. I look forward to working alongside such an exceptional team of attorneys and professionals,” added Blake Benson.

If you are interested in learning more about Blake, click here to visit his professional bio.

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Anthony represents clients across a broad range of civil and commercial matters, bringing a well-rounded perspective to each engagement. He has developed a particular focus in securities litigation, representing clients in arbitration proceedings before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the National Futures Association (NFA). Anthony has represented clients in disputes involving options trading, suitability, selling away, non-conventional and alternative investments, Ponzi schemes, and Regulation Best Interest (Reg BI).

As an addition to the Litigation group, Anthony will leverage his extensive experience in securities and commercial litigation while also handling a broad range of civil and commercial matters beyond his prior focus. He will represent clients in complex disputes, provide strategic guidance on regulatory and compliance issues, and contribute to the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional legal services across diverse litigation matters.

Anthony earned his B.S. in Business Management from Case Western Reserve University, with minors in Economics and Leadership. As an undergraduate, he captained the varsity basketball team and participated in Spartan Sustained Dialogue, an initiative fostering cross-cultural understanding among student-athletes. He earned his J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, where he served as an assistant coach for the university’s basketball program, was an active member of the Black Law Student Organization, and participated in the Street Law program, educating youth at the Cuyahoga County juvenile detention center. Anthony also gained practical legal experience as a law clerk at the Cuyahoga County Public Defender’s Office.

“I am excited to join McCarthy Lebit and join a team of talented and dedicated professionals who provide top-notch services to their clients. I look forward to learning and continuing the excellent reputation the firm has earned,” shared Anthony Duckett.

If you are interested in learning more about Anthony, click here to visit his professional bio.

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