SMEARMAN MARSHALL LLC

Eric is a trusted legal advisor to businesses, families, and public entities throughout Northeast Ohio. His practice is built on practical problem-solving, responsive counsel, and a deep understanding of the legal challenges his clients face at every stage of growth and transition.

He works with small to mid-sized businesses throughout Northeast Ohio, counseling owners on issues such as business formation, asset purchases and sales, employment and human relations matters, commercial real estate transactions (including leases and sales), contract drafting and negotiation, and business succession planning. Eric partners with clients not only to address immediate legal needs, but also to help position their businesses for long-term success.

Eric has maintained a strong probate and estate planning practice since the beginning of his career. He advises individuals and families on strategies to ensure the smooth transfer of assets to future generations, including the preparation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. He also assists clients following the death of a loved one, guiding them through probate and trust administration with care and sensitivity during difficult times.

Through his work in estate and asset transfers, Eric has developed significant experience in real estate transactions. He has represented clients in the sale, purchase, and leasing of both residential and commercial properties, and regularly assists with land acquisition, property development, and ongoing property management and leasing matters.

Eric also has extensive litigation experience throughout Northern Ohio courts, both state and federal. He has guided individuals, businesses, and insurance companies through a broad range of disputes, including business, contractual, and personal injury matters. In addition, he has represented cities and villages across Ohio in matters involving civil rights claims, police liability, land use and zoning disputes, employment issues, and constitutional challenges to municipal ordinances.

Eric holds an “AV” rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting a peer assessment of “Very High to Preeminent” legal ability and “Very High” ethical standards.

Active in his community, Eric serves as Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission for the City of Middleburg Heights. He is a member of St. Bartholomew Parish and the Lawyers Guild of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, and he previously served on its Executive Committee. A longtime youth soccer, baseball and softball coach, Eric now enjoys following Cleveland sports as a fan—especially the Cleveland Guardians.

Caitlin provides practical, client-focused legal counsel to individuals, families, and businesses, with a practice concentrated in estate planning, probate administration, real estate, and business law. Drawing on her broad legal background, Caitlin delivers thoughtful guidance designed to protect her clients’ interests and help them plan confidently for the future.

Caitlin works closely with individuals and families on estate planning matters, helping them put clear, effective plans in place through wills, powers of attorney, and related planning tools. She also assists families following the loss of a loved one, guiding them through probate administration and asset transfers with care, efficiency, and attention to detail during a difficult time.

In her real estate practice, Caitlin advises clients on a variety of residential and commercial matters, including landlord-tenant issues and the review, analysis, and negotiation of leases. She helps clients understand their rights and obligations, resolve disputes, and structure agreements that support long-term stability and success.

Caitlin also serves as a trusted advisor to business clients, assisting with day-to-day legal needs and long-term planning. Her business practice includes contract analysis and formation, employment-related agreements such as non-competition and severance agreements, and guidance on workplace issues, including employee handbook reviews and employment compliance matters.

Caitlin’s experience in litigation and employment law enhances her ability to anticipate potential risks and provide proactive counsel, allowing her clients to avoid disputes whenever possible and move forward with confidence.

Outside of the office, Caitlin is an amateur seamstress whose only client is her daughter, who loves the one-of-a-kind dresses her mom produces. In addition to doing various crafts, Caitlin enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and petting animals of all shapes and sizes.

With more than 35 years at Smearman Marshall LLC, Tanya is a trusted and valued member of the firm. As Firm Administrator, she plays a key role in the firm’s day-to-day management, overseeing all billing and financial matters and helping ensure the firm’s operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of the office, Tanya enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and supporting the local music scene.