I served over 20 years on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard, which included 5 years aboard Coast Guard Cutter ACACIA, working as the navigator on this World War II era, seagoing buoy tender and ice breaker. In addition to my shipboard experience, I investigated marine casualties, prosecuted suspension & revocation cases and served as the chief of the Great Lakes Regional Exam Center. This background provides me with the experience to evaluate and advise you on your maritime matter quickly and professionally.
I began my legal practice in northwest Ohio in 2006, where I work in bankruptcy, consumer and maritime law. I am a frequent lecturer on bankruptcy matters for attorneys earning continuing education credits, with topics ranging from the implications of divorce and bankruptcy, consumer bankruptcy fundamentals, claim litigation and preferential property transfers. I earned my law degree from the University of Toledo (with honors), I’m a member of the Ohio and Toledo Bar Associations, and I’m admitted to the Eastern District of Michigan and the Northern and Southern District of Ohio federal courts.
Since my Coast Guard career concluded, I’ve been an active volunteer with my local American Legion post, which includes performing with the color guard to ensure that our veterans are provided proper honors. I devote a significant portion of my legal practice to pro bono activity, which includes referrals from the Toledo Bar Association and Operation Legal Help Ohio for veterans, advising callers on the Ask the Attorney program, and assisting homeowners in foreclosure.
Areas Of Practice
- Admiralty & Maritime Law
- Bankruptcy Law
- Consumer Protection
- Lemon Law
- Construction Law
- Warranty Claims
- Bankruptcy Chapter 7 and 13
Bar Admissions
- Ohio, 2006
- U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan
- U.S. District Court Northern District of Ohio
- U.S. District Court Southern District of Ohio
Education
- University of Toledo College of Law, Toledo, Ohio
- Honors: With Honors
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Ohio Bar Association, Member
- Toledo Bar Association, Member
Past Employment Positions
- U.S. Coast Guard
Pro Bono Activities
- Active Volunteer, American Legion post
Languages
- English