It’s a commonly repeated refrain when a breakup occurs following an engagement or marriage: “You better keep that ring!” But, what legal right does a former spouse or former fiancé actually have to retain an engagement ring at the conclusion of a relationship? Or, put...
OVERVIEW & EXPERIENCE
Janet handles some of KJK’s most procedurally and emotionally challenging civil litigation, including complex commercial litigation and domestic relations and family law. In both areas of her practice, she is experienced in conducting advanced research and writing on a variety of substantive topics.
Janet brings compassion and empathy to her work in domestic and family law, demonstrating good dedication to clients during what is often one of the most vulnerable times in a person’s life. She guides clients in Northeast Ohio through what are often emotionally-charged legal matters, including divorce, dissolution, child custody and juvenile court proceedings involving unwed parents. Janet’s client-centered approach ensures that she serves not only as a zealous advocate but as an attentive listener and advisor.
Janet became an outspoken advocate for women’s rights while a student at The Ohio State University, particularly in the areas of domestic violence and human trafficking. She completed internships with the Action Ohio Coalition for Battered Women and the Ohio Governor’s Office for Women’s Initiatives and Outreach, and served as a volunteer guardian ad litem for children involved in neglect, abuse and dependency cases through the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County.
Outside of the office, Janet enjoys spending time with her family and her two cats, Telemachus and Eurydice, gardening and cheering on her beloved Ohio State Buckeyes.
Representative Experience
AWARDS & PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Awards
- The Best Lawyers in America® Ones To Watch, Family Law, 2023 – 2024
- JD Supra Readers’ Choice Awards, Top Author, Family Law, 2023
- Selected to Ohio Rising Stars, 2022-2023
- CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Lawyers as Leaders, Spring 2015
- CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Commercial Paper, Fall 2014
- Public Service Fellow with Dean’s Special Recognition, The Ohio State University
Professional Affiliations
- Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association
- Family Law Section Center for Principled Family Advocacy
- FDCC Ladder Down Cleveland, Class of 2021
- CMBA Leadership Academy, Class of 2021
BAR / COURT ADMISSIONS
- Ohio
- U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio
CIVIC INVOLVEMENT
- National Organization for Women
- Past Bylaws Chair and Legislative Liaison
- Ohio NOW Education and Legal Fund
- Past Assistant Director
- Past Bylaws Chair
- Past Secretary
- Women’s Legal Society
- Past President
- Legal Aid Society of Columbus Domestic Team
- Intern, Summer 2013
- The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
- Volunteer
MEDIA MENTIONS
PRESENTATIONS & PUBLICATIONS
PRACTICE AREAS
EDUCATION
- The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, J.D., 2015, cum laude
- The Ohio State University, B.A., 2012, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa