James M. Hafner Jr.

Daniel W. Srsic is highly-knowledgeable in benefits litigation and has appeared in more than 90 court cases involving employee benefit disputes, such as benefit claims, fiduciary duties and disputes regarding collectively bargained benefits. Daniel's benefits practice also extends to pre-dispute representation of plan sponsors and fiduciaries. He brings a litigation perspective to the evaluation of potential changes to collectively bargained retiree health benefits, which has proved to be a v...

In October 2015, Grier joined the ATWF team, bringing with him many years of experience in all areas of medical litigation, including cardiovascular, neurologic, neursurgical, radiology, oncology, obstetric-gynecologic and hospital administration issues. Grier’s litigation immersion began with his employment as a staff attorney at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas in Columbus. His next position with Earl Warburton & Adams lasted over 25 years. Starting as an associate and wo...

Nick Whisler is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Privacy and Data Security Law. Nick, who practices law in New Albany, Ohio, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Nick is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

David J. Butler is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation and Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Plaintiffs. David J., who practices law in Columbus, Ohio, has been recognized since 2014. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which David J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Jon J. Saia has over 34 years of experience in defending criminal cases. The focus of his practice is OVI Defense. Beyond representing individuals charged with OVI, Mr. Saia provides consultation services and expert testimony with respect to the administration of field sobriety and and is often consulted by colleagues with regard to issues surrounding breath, blood and urine alcohol testing. Mr. Saia is has completed training in both the administration and instruction of DUI Detection and Sta...

Paul-Michael La Fayette is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Municipal Law. Paul-Michael, who practices law in Columbus, Ohio, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Paul-Michael is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Frederick A. Sewards is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants. Frederick A., who practices law in Columbus, Ohio, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Frederick A. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Brian G. Miller has established himself as an experienced and accomplished trial lawyer who is a leader in the field of personal injury law. Mr. Miller has been recognized with many of his profession's top honors and accolades. Since 2013 he has been recognized annually within The Best Lawyers in America for his work in the field of personal injury litigation. Similarly, Mr. Miller has been named annually to Ohio's Super Lawyer list since 2010. This distinction recognizes the top 5% of attorn...

Thomas J. Riley focuses his practice on business and corporate law as well as wealth transfer planning. He counsels small to midsize closely held manufacturing and distribution enterprises and professional practices on matters including tax planning, contract negotiations, and mergers and acquisitions. T.J. has experience handling multi-employee union plans, master and prototype plans for sponsoring organizations, and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). He also advises owners on successio...

Joseph M. Patchen is a Partner at Carlile Patchen & Murphy LLP, representing businesses, financial institutions, owners, and professionals in business and real estate matters. His business law practice emphasizes corporation and limited liability company formation, mergers, and succession planning. His commercial real estate representation focuses on finance, construction, leasing, and acquisition. Joe joined CPM in June 1987. He serves as Chair of CPM’s Real Estate Practice Group.