Law360 and Crain’s Cleveland Business Publish Articles on Columbus Office Expansion

Law360 and Crain’s Cleveland Business recently published articles on Frantz Ward’s expansion into Central Ohio with the opening of the Columbus office and the addition of Benjamin J. MacDowell and Matthew J. Wiles as Partners.

Crain’s Cleveland Business featured an interview with Managing Partner Christopher G. Keim, in the article, “Frantz Ward expands with first new office outside Cleveland.” Chris discussed what prompted the expansion and the firm’s goals with the new Columbus office.

“Over the last decade, we heard repeatedly from clients asking for Frantz Ward to have a physical presence in Columbus,” Chris told Crain’s Cleveland Business. “Then, when we started talks with Matt and Ben, everything aligned. They are exceptional attorneys and bringing them on board gave us the right foundation to finally make this happen.”

Law360 also featured an interview with Chris, as well as both Partners in the article, “Frantz Ward Opens Columbus Office with 2 Atty Hires.” In this article, they discussed the strategy behind the move.

“My clients have been thrilled with the move, and, from a business perspective, the resources present at Frantz Ward allow them to keep more of their business matters in one place while also benefiting from the collective knowledge of the firm as it is appropriate to leverage,” Ben told Law360.

Matt agreed, saying: “The firm’s reputation, culture, and resources, and consequent ability to handle all kinds of matters, were a big draw for me,” adding that Columbus is a thriving market for the firm to join.

“Columbus certainly has a vibrant and growing business market, and this move will allow the firm to service existing clients’ needs in the market, as well as seek to expand its Columbus client base,” Matt told Law360. Chris also touched upon the firm’s outlook on growth moving forward.

Additional coverage was provided by Columbus Business First.

As Managing Partner, Chris helps establish the firm’s strategic direction and its day-to-day operations. In addition to this role and his Management Committee responsibilities, Chris is a litigator whose legal practice focuses on civil litigation matters, including general business disputes, product liability claims, transportation law, employment litigation, and corporate investigations.

Ben brings a unique blend of commercial and government law perspectives to his corporate law practice and leverages his background to assist clients on matters such as contracts and governance, business and franchise acquisitions and sales, real estate law and leasing, and estate and business succession planning.

Matt concentrates his practice in the transportation and logistics industry, primarily representing freight brokers in a wide range of litigation and arbitration matters, including restrictive covenants and trade secrets, employment matters, significant cargo claims, double broker scams, carrier disputes, and hostage loads. His experience involves decades of civil and business litigation, including construction, oil and gas, and intellectual property disputes, as well as serving as outside general counsel for clients with California-specific business and employment issues.

Frantz Ward is a full-service law firm with over 80 attorneys committed to providing clients with practical, responsive, and cost-effective legal solutions. The firm serves a national client base, including Fortune 500 companies, small and medium-sized businesses, and individuals from its Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio offices. The firm’s attorneys and practices receive national recognition, including the highest bands in the prestigious Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business guide.