CLEVELAND, Ohio, January 2, 2012-In the New Year, Ryan P. Nowlin becomes a Partner in the law firm of Schneider, Smeltz, Ranney & LaFond where he will continue to focus his practice areas on family law and business litigation. This is a significant honor for Ryan, as he will become our youngest Partner to be elected by the firm.

Ryan counsels businesses and individuals regarding a variety of litigation matters, and he represents clients in state and municipal courts across Northeast Ohio and in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. He also represents individuals in every phase of divorce and custody proceedings and is experienced in Alternative Dispute Resolution methods, including arbitration and mediation.

In addition to becoming a Partner, Ryan experienced other significant successes during 2011, including: being retained as an At-Large Member of the Lakewood City Council in the November elections; selection for inclusion in Ohio Super Lawyers - Rising Stars Edition 2011 and 2012; and the birth of his twin sons, Thomas and Peter.

To say that Nowlin has been busy is an understatement and members of the firm frequently remark about how he has skillfully prioritized his legal practice while balancing the challenges that these additional responsibilities have presented. According to Jim Vail, Managing Partner, at Schneider, Smeltz, Ranney & LaFond, "We are proud to add Ryan to our partnership. His skills and experience in our litigation and family law practices continue to bolster our firm, and make him a strong and effective advocate for our clients."