Best Divorce Attorneys in Cincinnati
Zachary D. Smith
Divorce Lawyers
Before starting this firm, I practiced as a trial advocate with the in the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy and later with an established small firm in downtown Cincinnati. I became a public defender because I craved action. I wanted to gain experience counseling clients and develop my courtroom skills. When I transitioned into private practice I added civil litigation to my repertoire, gravitating toward and eventually specializing in Family Law in Ohio and Kentucky.
I am a trained Family Law Mediator, currently serve as co-president of the Cincinnati Academy of Collaborative Professionals and litigate my fair share of cases. I enjoy Family Law because it allows me to use all the tools in my toolbox. I believe a client is best served when you engage in complex problem solving, generate creative outcomes, and are ready to lean on the nuances and technical aspects of the law to prevail in Court. I understand every family is different, and every family requires different tools be deployed. Whether they know it or not, my parents greatly informed my approach to the practice of Family Law.
Ethan J. Arenstein
Divorce Lawyers
Hello, I’m Ethan Arenstein. I have been practicing law since 2014 and have primarily focused on family. This includes divorce, dissolutions, custody, and support issues.
My first two years of law school I worked for my father, Hal Arenstein, in criminal defense. This helped shape my ability to interact with clients and to always have their best interest in mind.
I worked for Cathy my third year of law school and have ever since been intent on learning as much from her as possible. I’ve learned how to be hands on with our clients to determine how best to handle their interest and fight for each one of them.
After law school, I practiced family law on my own for two years, learning the ins and outs of the area of practice. Now, having teamed up with Cathy once again, I hope to continue my path of legal learning and continue to assist clients in their time of need.
MEGHAN BROOKS
Divorce Lawyers
WITH OVER TEN YEARS’ EXPERIENCE in Ohio family law, Meghan will negotiate to get optimal results for all involved parties. Her experience spans family law, including custody issues between unmarried parents, legal separations, dissolutions, contested and uncontested divorce. Meghan will help you negotiate to find results that are optimal for all parties involved, and draft your separation agreement, shared parenting agreement, and prepare all other court documents. You can save money by using mediation services as well, where you are in control of deciding the splitting of your marital assets and the best custody situation for your children.
With Meghan, you’re more than just another client. You will communicate directly to a dedicated attorney in order to make sure you stay in control and informed in regards to your case. Together, with your interests in mind, we’ll create an individualized solution.
No one enters marriage with divorce in mind, but sometimes it may prove inevitable. Divorce can be a complicated, emotionally-draining and stressful experience. Thankfully, you don’’t have to go through it alone. Attorney Brooks has been providing divorce representation in the Cleveland area since 2007.
Lauren Ashley
Divorce Lawyers
Lauren exclusively practices Family Law. She represents her clients in all aspects of Family Law, including divorce, dissolution, child custody, spousal support, grandparents’ rights, prenuptial agreements, and protection orders.
Lauren values open and frequent communication with clients. Further, Lauren believes in alternative dispute resolution such as mediation, arbitration, and settlement conferences. However, she recognizes this path is not always possible, and as such, is an ardent litigator.
Ultimately, Lauren brings steadfastness, humility, and empathy into all of her cases.
Beth Silverman
Divorce Lawyers
I have been practicing family law exclusively since graduating from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1984. Before entering law school, I earned a Master’s Degree from Xavier University and a bachelor’s degree from Miami University.
I have confined my law practice to family law matters since becoming a lawyer. I wanted to be as knowledgeable and experienced in Domestic Relations rather than diluting my focus with multiple areas. Practicing in only family law matters for over thirty years has allowed me the opportunity to establish relationships with many of the other family law attorneys in this community and establish trust and respect in those relationships. With trust and respect, many cases become easier to resolve. After many years of engaging in litigation, it is my preference, whenever possible, to attempt to resolve cases without court involvement. This provides predictability for the client and, in most cases, reduces the emotional damage that litigation can create. Clients are able to determine their priorities and work toward a resolution in which their goals will be met. This is where my reputation has been built.
I am a collaboratively-trained attorney, and was a founding member of our Cincinnati collaborative group in the late 1990’s. Most of my clients are people who want to work with an attorney who will act as a collaborator with their spouse (and his or her attorney), rather than as an adversary. These clients are searching for a respectful process, and one which recognizes the importance of maintaining family relationships.
I strive to be conscientious in all areas, including ethically and in my work product. I will almost always return a phone call in the same day or within 24 hours. I make it a point to keep a client informed of all developments in their case. My hope is that my clients always feel supported and confident in the representation they are receiving, and that I am addressing their concerns. While it is easy to establish what would be important to me in a settlement, I will not impose my priorities on a client. My clients should feel empowered to make sound decisions after receiving the legal advice that is needed.
As a member of the Grievance Committee of the Cincinnati Bar Association for approximately 20 years, I am keenly aware of the ethical and professional standards required of an attorney. Treating my clients, opposing counsel and the court with respect and dignity is the highest of my priorities.
Kourtney Brueckner
Divorce Lawyers
Kourtney P. Brueckner focuses her practice on all family law, divorce, and child custody issues. She is a zealous advocate for her clients using a holistic approach both inside and outside the courtroom. Kourtney employs various techniques including mediation and settlement to give clients the best option for their highly personal situation.
Kourtney is an active member of the Cincinnati Bar Association. She is on the CBA Community Service Committee. She was awarded with the 2018 Community Service award for her impact on the Cincinnati community. Kourtney is also a member of the American Bar Association, ABA Family Law Section, Ohio Bar Association, and the Cincinnati Bar Association, and Domestic Relations Committee. Kourtney also gives back to the Cincinnati community through pro bono work with the Volunteer Lawyers Project.
Gloria S. Haffer
Divorce Lawyers
Gloria handles the whole spectrum of family law issues, primarily divorces and domestic relations disputes involving significant property settlements, protracted support and custody issues, and complex financial aspects. She also handles complex estate, trust, probate and financial matters.
Areas Of Practice
- Family Law
- Estate Planning
- Probate
- Business and Corporate Law
Bar Admissions
- Ohio, 1977
- Kentucky, 1982
- U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 1977
- U.S. Supreme Court, 1984
Education
- Northern Kentucky University, Salmon P. Chase College of Law, Highland Heights, Kentucky
- J.D. – 1977
- Honors: Recipient, Lawyers Co-Operative Publishing Company Award
- University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
- B.A., Bachelor of Arts – 1962
- H. Sophie Newcomb College
- Walnut Hills High School
Howard, Barbara J.
Divorce Lawyers
Serving clients throughout the greater Cincinnati metropolitan area, including Hamilton, Clermont and Warren counties, Barbara J. Howard focuses her practice exclusively on family law matters at Barbara J. Howard Co., L.P.A. She has been certified as a specialist in family relations law by the Ohio State Bar Association since 1999. Ms. Howard assists people who are facing the end of their marriage and who are dealing with divorce-related issues that can include the division of retirement accounts and other complex marital assets, child custody and visitation, alimony, and child support. A strong advocate for her clients in the courtroom, Ms. Howard often attempts to seek resolution of these matters through collaborative law. Ms. Howard has extensive experience in other areas of family law, including post-divorce order modifications and paternity disputes.
A native of Ohio, Ms. Howard graduated magna cum laude from Xavier University in 1976 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. She then obtained her legal education from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and was awarded her Juris Doctor in 1979. Admitted to practice before all Ohio state courts, Ms. Howard is also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. Highly respected by her fellow attorneys, she is AV Preeminent* peer-review rated through Martindale-Hubbell.
Hiring the best divorce lawyer in Cincinnati can offer numerous benefits during the divorce process. Here are some advantages of having top-notch legal representation:
Expert Legal Advice: The best divorce lawyers have extensive knowledge and experience in family law, allowing them to provide you with expert advice tailored to your specific situation. They can guide you through the legal complexities and potential pitfalls of divorce.
Asset and Property Division: Divorce often involves the division of assets and properties, which can be a complex and contentious process. A skilled lawyer can help protect your financial interests and ensure a fair distribution of marital property.
Child Custody and Support: If children are involved, custody and support arrangements are of utmost importance. A competent attorney can advocate for your parental rights and work towards securing the best possible custody and support arrangement for your children.
Negotiation Skills: Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation rather than going to trial. A top divorce lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, striving to achieve a favorable settlement that meets your needs and priorities.
Court Representation: In cases where negotiation fails, and litigation becomes necessary, a strong divorce lawyer can represent you in court, presenting your case persuasively and advocating for your interests before a judge.
Thorough Documentation: Divorce involves a significant amount of paperwork and documentation. An experienced lawyer will ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and on time, avoiding delays and potential legal issues.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: The best divorce lawyers can guide you through mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods, which can lead to more amicable and cost-effective divorce resolutions.
Protection from Unfair Settlements: During a divorce, emotions can run high, leading to hasty decisions. A reputable lawyer acts as an objective advisor, protecting you from accepting unfair or unfavorable settlements.
Knowledge of Local Laws: Each jurisdiction may have unique divorce laws and procedures. Hiring a local attorney who is well-versed in Cincinnati’s family law can be advantageous as they understand the local court system and judges’ preferences.
Reduction of Stress: Going through a divorce can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Having a skilled lawyer handle the legal aspects allows you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life, reducing the stress of the legal process.
Privacy and Confidentiality: The best divorce lawyers prioritize your privacy and confidentiality, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure throughout the legal process.
In summary, having the best divorce lawyer in Cincinnati can significantly impact the outcome of your divorce case. They can provide invaluable legal counsel, protect your rights and interests, and help you navigate the complexities of the divorce process with greater ease and confidence.