Lear, S. Michael

After six years at a law firm where he worked on the infamous "Kirtland Cult Killings" case, Michael came to Zukerman in 1996. An experienced criminal and civil attorney, Michael concentrates on large, complex cases. He also has significant experience in the areas of felony criminal defense, OVI (DUI) defense, personal injury cases, and appellate cases (appeals).

Michael is respected within the Firm as a trial tactician, especially proficient in organizing and synthesizing large volumes of documents and evidence in complex criminal and civil cases. He has found that thorough preparation provides him with a purer focus, and in trials his binders overflowing with documents is a common sight.

Michael believes it is crucial that he involve his clients as much as possible in all aspects of legal proceedings. He explains the charges, how the process works, the possible penalties, what a bond is, who has the burden of proof, and so on, to his clients so that they can follow each stage of the case; for instance, if negotiation occurs, clients can better understand their position.

Michael is a member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, the Cuyahoga County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Geauga Bar Association, and the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, where Michael is currently the Chair of the Publication Committee.

Michael is a happily married father of three daughters -- two adult, one teenaged. His oldest, Melissa, has joined the support staff of Zukerman, which Michael hopes will ease the trauma of the all-too rapidly approaching empty nest syndrome. When not at work Michael can often be found bingeing on caffeine at his wife's coffee shop/bistro, "Beans".