Friedman, Gilbert + Gerhardstein

Everyone is innocent until proven guilty. FG+G is representing Michael Bukowski as he faces murder allegations despite there being no evidence presented by police or prosecutors that links him to the crime. Keep checking our page for updates on this case and read the latest update here: https://ow.ly/3GIS50Vgppe

This week, Sarah headed to warmer temps to be inducted into the International Society of Barristers! Inductees and fellow ISOB members enjoyed a gorgeous backdrop for their annual meeting, with opening remarks from the Prime Minister of Aruba. Congrats, Sarah!

The Hamilton County Public Defender Commission is hosting a public forum on February 27 where community members can meet the two chief Public Defender finalists, Sean Vicente and Angela Chang. All are welcome to attend and voice community concerns as Hamilton County prepares to appoint a chief Public Defender who will begin their term in August 2026. For those who attended the first forum last Saturday, please provide your feedback on the finalists! Your comments are valuable to the selection process: https://lnkd.in/eJDt58ZV ?? 1 & 2: Chief Public Defender finalists Sean Vicente and Angela Chang ?? 3: Hamilton County Commissioners Iris Roley, Jacqueline Greene, and Eva Hager

Don’t miss the opportunity to see FG+G partner Al Gerhardstein speak about his role in the landmark 2015 Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states. Northern Kentucky University Law Review’s spring symposium will cover a range of timely civil rights discussions throughout the day, including a panel on the history of Obergefell v. Hodges. Check out the full schedule and register here: https://bit.ly/43cD0oV

FG+G lawyers Terry Gilbert and Elizabeth Bonham settled a lawsuit on behalf of Melvin Robertson, who was shot by off duty Cleveland police officer Robert Taylor outside a Giant Eagle store in 2021. Taylor was working as a security guard at the time. Despite this being Taylor’s fourth use of force in his career, including being involved in two fatal shootings, he was never disciplined. This resolution offers a sense of closure to Melvin, who experienced lasting physical and emotional trauma caused by Taylor’s negligence and excessive force. Read the full story here:

We’d like to thank Rebecca for her dedication and passion for civil rights during her time at FG+G! We wish you all the best as you take the next step in your professional journey.

Nearly a decade has passed since the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark case that required all states to license and recognize same-sex marriage. FG+G partner Al Gerhardstein played an instrumental role in this victory for LGBTQ+ rights, and on March 20 he’ll weigh in on the history of the case at Northern Kentucky University’s Law Review spring symposium. Get more details on the event here:

Sarah was a natural at opening the Leadership Cleveland Public Policy/Advocacy Day at Cleveland City Council Chambers! Not only is Sarah is a member of the LC Class of 2025, FG+G was also a proud sponsor of this session. #CivicEngagement

“DEI programs help us fully embrace everyone into our educational and work lives.” Ohio SB1, which would ban DEI programming in higher education, serves no purpose but to continue the systemic oppression of marginalized populations. FG+G partner Al Gerhardstein’s recent op-ed in the Cincinnati Enquirer discusses why DEI initiatives have a rightful and critical place in our institutions. Read the full article here:

We’re adding a new Civil Rights Litigation Attorney to our team! For details on what we’re looking for and how to apply, visit our website: https://ow.ly/4wJ250UMPOB