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TESTIMONIALS by practice area
STUDENT REPRESENTATION
GREAT ATTORNEY: Mark Weiker is a wonderful attorney. He was always keeping me informed on what was going on and he would respond to my emails or calls promptly. He not only put a lot of time and effort into making sure I was awarded what I deserved but he was legitimately concerned about how I was treated. I received news from Mark that I would receive my diploma and nursing pin well before the date he listed on the legal letter for the other party to respond. His letter got a quick response and I could not thank him more. I can now move on and take my boards and do what I worked so hard for. - Monica
BADASS: I’m sure I’ll talk to you [Liz] soon, but thank you thank you thank you for everything you’ve done and for just being the best, most badass lawyer. I’m honored to know you and be represented by you. - Former Client
FACING SUSPENSION: My son had an incident at school and was facing suspension, so we were connected with Kathi for legal consultation on how to best handle this situation. She was very responsive to our needs throughout the process. She had excellent communication skills in both listening to our concerns and providing sound advice. Her expertise in this area and compassion towards the situation, helped to alleviate our concerns and provide a path towards a favorable outcome. - Former Client
ATTITUDE: Josh was the lawyer that represented my daughter and I am very happy to have had his representation. He had such a great attitude. His attitude made me feel like he believed my story and was on my side. I didn't feel like I had a lawyer who was just doing it for the money. Josh also communicated very well and he would get back to me in a decent time frame and that helped me feel supported as well. Prior to hiring Josh I felt like there was no real genuine people that cared. While my case came out as a great win, which exceeded my expectations, I would have still given a positive review based on my experience. Josh did not come off as arrogant and it seemed like he had a good team whose opinion was beneficial for my case. It's rare to come across people who do things for the right reasons and the right way. I am happy to recommend this firm, but especially Josh as your potential lawyer. - Former Client
5 STARS - ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT DEFENSE: Hired Mark to deal with a charge of academic misconduct brought against me. From day 1 he handled every aspect of the entire arduous process, and was very knowledgeable on how things were going to go. He knew what info he needed from me and once he had it he went to work. He contacted my school and filed tons of paperwork getting all ducks in a row for my academic trial. This included contacting multiple witnesses, and getting written testimonies from each of them, and going back and forth with the school (played hardball) to get more information that was crucial in proving my innocence. He even went so far to have me do a mock trial in his office to prep me for the real trail... very thorough. The trial result was not in my favor but Mark had a 9-page appeal ready to go the next day. On my behalf, he appealed the decision to the VP of my University and the ruling was completely overturned. Without Mark's knowledge of this whole process, and the appeal process, I would not have had a positive outcome at all. In addition to failing the class, I was also facing possible suspension from the university. Very glad I hired Mark Weiker to save me. - John
AMAZING: This is bitter sweet. You [Liz] are amazing and I have no words of how grateful I am to have you. Thank you isn’t enough... you have been nothing short of amazing. This is only an end to a chapter, not a book. - Former Client
OUT OF STATE STUDENT RESIDENCY ISSUE/TUITION DECREASE: I can’t speak highly enough of [AW]! I had some issues when appealing my residency form via Ohio State. I needed some extra help getting through the process when I was denied because some of my documents were questioned. They were MORE than helpful and answered my endless questions! My residency issue was resolved and I’m officially an Ohio state resident via The Ohio State University. Go bucks! - J.T.
SUPPORTIVE AND EMPATHETIC: Kathleen was extremely helpful in a very complicated situation, which required reviewing a large amount of information. She went above and beyond in may respects, including providing valuable perspective on the academic world and how to navigate it effectively. Additionally, she was supportive and empathic while also sticking to the facts and remaining objective. I would recommend her to anyone having legal issues with a university! - Former Client
EXPULSION CASE: I highly recommend the firm, specifically Attorney Lauren Sabo; her experience in a classroom as well as attorney provide her with a uniquely valuable insight to education system. In addition Lauren’s calm demeanor and attention to detail are just two of the values that made the experience of facing an MDR and expulsion hearing a little easier. She took the time to fully explain our options and make sure that her clients best interest were represented. I’m hopeful that we won’t need their services in the future but if we do we know exactly where to turn. I cannot express the gratitude we have for her in our time of need. Lauren heart and passion have her in the right place she is there if you need her to help you navigate any educational legality’s. - Former Client
ABOVE & BEYOND: Our experience with Mr. Weiker has been extremely positive. Just a “note of thanks and appreciation” for giving of his time and knowledge. Mr. Weiker recognized the problem took the appropriate action and started a chain reaction. Which in the end overcame the issue at hand in our benefit but will prove positive for students to come. He did not have to go out of his way, but did so without hesitation. He is an advocate that is honest, straight forward and we believe truly cares about what is right. We would not hesitate to recommend him. - Karen
ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS!: I contacted and Hired Mark after one conversation. I was very confident that he was the attorney for us. My son got into some trouble at school. He made a bad choice and deserved to get suspended for it. The school decided they wanted to recommend him for expulsion. My son also has ADHD which causes him to be very impulsive. Thankfully Mark Weiker also has experience in special education law as well. He is great at communicating on what's going on with your case. Not did my son not get expelled , he didn't have to serve out the rest of his suspension. Mark even checked in on my son after the fact. I highly recommend him. - Felicia
BEST: Liz is the absolute best. If you need a good lawyer who will fight for you and make you feel safer after a horrible experience of being taken advantage of by someone you trusted, Elizabeth Abdnour is the person you need. - Former Client
HUGE HELP: My son transferred schools due to bullying and we needed to file a PIAA waiver appeal. Kathleen was extremely understanding and did a very thorough preparation for the hearing. With her help, we were successful and obtained a waiver. We are grateful for her help! - Former Client
EDUCATOR REPRESENTATION
5 STARS - ODE DEFENSE: Through his thoroughness and expertise, Mr. Weiker was successful in resolving an issue between myself and the State Department of Education. He treated my issue with the utmost seriousness and dedication to resolving it in my favor. I will always be grateful as this issue meant so very much to me. - Barb
EXCELLENT: I would recommend Mark Weiker to anyone looking for an excellent attorney. Mark genuinely cared about me and my situation and put everything he had into my case. His timely responses and flexible availability were far beyond my expectations. Working with Mark was a great experience, and I am truly grateful to have had him on my side. - Former Client
GRATEFUL: Thank you for representing me [Liz].... I truly couldn’t have done it without you agreeing to represent me and fighting with me for so long. I’m so happy I have been able to get to know you and will be forever grateful for all you’ve done for me. You helped me get my life back. I’m glad this case is over, but I’m sad not to be working with you anymore! In the future, if I need legal counsel or my family does, you’ll be the first person I call. - Former Client
INTEGRITY: Ms. Mahoney was assigned as my representative and advisor by a third-party to a workplace discrimination case that I brought against a college where I was employed as an adjunct professor. Immediately once we met it was evident that Ms. Mahoney held great integrity in her work. She communicated clearly and honestly at all times and balanced professionalism and personability in ways that helped me feel supported in an otherwise difficult situation with the college. As a scholar/academic, I would also add that she was a delight to collaborate with on the case. Her execution during the investigation hearing was diligent and attentive; I couldn't have asked for better representation. - Former Client
CONCRETE ADVICE: I consulted with Kathi about a work place issue. I felt I was being unfairly targeted, and being pushed out. Kathi gave me concrete advice and helped me take the emotion out of a high stress situation. She was sympathetic to my situation and gave specific actions to take to document my experiences. I appreciated her candor and expertise on this issue. - Former Client
SPECIAL EDUCATION
5 STARS: I highly recommend the legal services of the firm, in particular, I commend Mark Weiker, Esq. and Danielle Randolph, Education Advocate. I found them to be well-inform, competent and skillful professionals committed to excellence in client service. - T.H.
5 STARS: Our experience with advocate Danielle Randolph was top notch.... She was thorough with the records provided to her and stayed on top of communication with the school. She helped to ease the tension that had been created among the IEP "Team" and was able to voice our concerns and desires for our student. Danielle would be a great asset for anyone needing help to advocate for their child in difficult IEP meetings. She had great knowledge of the in's and out's of a proper IEP and the necessity of appropriate goals and measurement tactics of those goals. We would highly recommend having Danielle Randolph by your side to advocate for your student! - H.D.
5 STARS: Would highly recommend this practice as an advocate for your school related needs. While we were able to resolve our issue quickly, both Lauren and Mark were helpful, attentive and were willing and able to act swiftly on our behalf. - N.R.
THANK YOU: Thank you so much for all that you have done for us. We truly appreciate it and you. You better believe that we will not forget you and recommend your firm highly. Currently...[student] is progressing well and is a 3.0 student. Yeah!!!!! I am a proud Momma. Thank you again not just for your help but for your genuine concern. May you continue to be bless. - Former Client
AMAZING!: Lauren and Ashley are AMAZING! I was on a quick timeline and Ashley was kind, professional and efficient. She got all information and updated Lauren before we even talked. Lauren - a good hearted positive individual made an extremely stressful situation calm & easier to get through. I have no idea what I would have done without her. Highly Highly recommend!!! Thank you again!! - D.S.
5 STARS: Attorney Lauren Sabo is amazing! She genuinely cares about working towards an end goal that is best for her clients. She works hard an is overall a wonderful attorney. - A.C.
MY VOICE: Liz had many cases already but took on my case as well. When I met with Liz, here is someone young, vibrant, kind and someone whom finally listened to me. Liz took her time to listen to my story, but she sat patiently listening for the next couple of hours. I knew she was going to be my voice in Court. I will be forever grateful for Liz Abdnour who took the time to listen to my story, her kindness and caring personality carried me through years of fighting for me and my children. - Former Client
5 STARS: Since the first grade I had constantly battled my daughter's school over her IEP. Teachers not wanting to follow her IEP. Teachers constantly saying something to my daughter about taking medication for her ADHD. Both of which are illegal. Teachers would make fun of the children with IEPs in front of their classmates. I am a strong woman and a powerful voice for my daughter. For years I was able to get the school in line on my own. At one point I did threaten legal action. They definitely take notice with that threat. By the time she was in the 12th grade I was beaten down. I still fought, but I was tired of fighting alone. I called Renee. She was exactly what my daughter and I needed. She was in the fight with us. The school already hated having to deal with me, but once an attorney was involved they knew this momma meant business and the fight was over. I had zero issues once Renee was involved. I honestly wish I had gotten Renee earlier. Not every child has a parent that has the voice I have. I understand battling a school system is difficult. Knowing the laws surrounding IEPs can be confusing. I understand a lot of parents aren't as confrontational as I am. This is when you need someone like Renee. Even if you have been successful with your battles having Renee in the fight with you takes a load off of you. The IEP your child has is a legal binding agreement. The schools must follow it. My daughter graduated this May. It was a long, hard road getting there. I am so thankful that Renee traveled the last few miles with us. If I had it to do over she would have been with us for the entire journey. I am giving Renee 5 stars. I would give so many more but that's as high as the rating goes. - Former Client
ADVOCATE: Thank you for all your help, Liz. You were a wonderful advocate, and I honestly believe we would not have had the same result without you. - Former Client
EMPLOYMENT
GREAT ATTORNEY!: Mark Weiker is an Amazing Attorney! Not only did he win my case against the State of Ohio with unemployment, which was a very difficult case from the beginning, but also made himself available to me through out the whole process. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a GREAT ATTORNEY! - Irena
QUICK SERVICE WITH THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOME: I was unlawfully terminated by my employer while on FMLA leave in an attempt to deny me short-term disability benefits and wages. As soon as I got my termination letter I contacted Mark Weiker and he responded to me the same day. In the same week he had submitted a letter to my employer on my behalf and we were able to resolve the issue without litigation. I am now able to file my short term disability claim and my employer agreed to pay me my full wages for the two weeks they did not allow me to return to work. If I had not reached out to Mark Weiker I know that I would have missed a full month of wages. Mark is pleasant to work with, very professional, and takes the time to listen to your situation to understand it fully. I was also very satisfied with the fees in comparison to other firms I had first looked at. - Former Client
SMALL BUSINESS HELP: I have used [AW] on several occasions to help sort out legal aspects of owning a small business, and they are nothing short of wonderful...knowledgeable, personable, and invested. They are also genuinely nice, good-hearted people. I would recommend this group to anyone in need of quality, thorough legal assistance without any hesitation. - D.A.
5 STARS - UNEMPLOYMENT DISPUTE: I felt my son needed representation for his unemployment eligibility hearing because he has a cognitive disability. Mr Weiker talked with both of us and agreed to take the case. He requested an in-person hearing and my son's former employer dropped their request for an appeal. So, the hearing was cancelled and my son will continue to get unemployment compensation until he can find a new job. I am very pleased that Mr. Weiker brought his experience and expertise with the process to procure a good outcome for my son. I would recommend him. - Former Client
5 STARS: I hired Mark and I'm so glad I did! Mark handled my case with diplomacy and tact towards a swift resolution. I appreciated Mark's responsiveness, his knowledge of the law and his concern for me that I was justly represented and protected. I highly recommend Mark Weiker! - Former Client
5 STARS - INCORPORATION: Mark was a huge help in setting up our LLC and helping our nonprofit obtain 501(c)(3) status. He explained the process in easy to understand terms and his expertise was demonstrated in the successful outcome. I have and would continue to recommend Mark to any of my family and friends. I'm confident he would take good care of their legal needs and treat them with respect and dignity. - Steve
KNOWLEDGEABLE, PATIENT, & RESPONSIVE: Mark represented me in negotiating a mutually respectful employment separation. He gave excellent advice and provided rudder and compass in rough and unknown waters. We are very pleased with advice and results. The fees are fair and clearly understood. If you need to negotiate with an employer, I proudly and heartily recommend Mark Weiker. - Shawn
EXCELLENT ATTORNEY: PROACTIVE, GREAT INSTINCTS, UP TO DATE: Mark has helped us in a number of areas, e.g. contracts, hiring, audit, etc. He has reviewed, revised, and prepared contracts that protect our company from future potential problems as well as current issues. Asks enough questions to really understand our company and gives good, sound advice regardless of whether it's what we want to hear. Honest and intelligent. We would unreservedly recommend him for both personal and corporate work. - Jean
SUPER LAWYER!: I was given Mark's name by one of my relatives, who said he was a good employment attorney. I had an employment agreement that I wanted an attorney to look over to see if it was acceptable, and to find any loopholes or treacherous clauses. Mark made a number of suggested changes which were incorporated into the agreement. He worked quickly and efficiently, and I am very pleased that I was able to work with him, and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needed a competent attorney. - David
GREAT RESOURCE - BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP: I have know Mark since 1995. He is a trustworthy person and has been a great resource for me and my business. He was able to review my partnership agreement and make sure I was making a good decision and protecting myself. He cares about people and is very genuine. I highly recommend working with Mark! - Dylan
What do COLLEAGUES think?
Liz is an exceptional attorney. Her knowledge and integrity are enhanced by a charismatic personality. She built rapport quickly with the clients I referred to her - she was timely in communication and thorough in her investigations, and she made people feel comfortable talking to her. Liz's understanding of the bigger context - the ‘spirit’ of the law - reassured me that my clients would feel respected and understood, even if the outcome was not in their favor. Her familiarity with the intricate details - the ‘letter’ of the law - made me feel confident in the process and outcome of her work. The clients I work with have experienced some form of trauma, and I take very seriously who I recommend. I don't have to think twice when it comes to recommending Liz. She is a wonderful attorney and a tremendous asset to our community.
"I've known Mark for nearly 20 years. He's a conscientious person on top of being a practical, smart lawyer. He knows how to get things done, which translates into positive results for his clients. Mark is at the top of my list of lawyers to work with when I have the opportunity." - Peer Attorney
When people need the assistance of an attorney, they are usually upset or overwhelmed in some way. They need someone they can trust to give them reliable information and perform in a skilled and professional way. Liz is experienced in Title IX and other forms of educational/employment rights, which is an increasingly relevant yet under-resourced service in our community. What other attorneys are just now paying attention to, Liz has been an expert in for years. - Lauren Allswede, LMSW, Founder & Director of Clinical Services, North Star Wellness Center
“I have known the lawyers at AW for years. They are well-respected within the legal community, well-known, super smart, and very easy to talk to. Excellent resource for other attorneys too! Highly recommend them for any legal questions you may have!” - Peer Attorney
Liz is one of the best public interest attorneys/advocates and litigators I know. Disadvantaged clients often have several legal issues in need of resolution simultaneously. Liz is skilled at developing creative solutions, including litigation and non-litigation strategies and collaborative advocacy, to meet the needs of her clients. She is also bilingual and provides exceptional legal representation to the Spanish speaking clients. Not only does she exhibit expertise and compassion in her individual client representation, but she is also committed to social justice and issues important to her client base. This is evidenced by her features in the media and community presentations on immigration, domestic violence and family law issues. Liz is also a very supportive colleague and dedicated to making a positive impact on young legal professionals and the legal community as a whole. - Rickell Howard Smith, Esq., President & CEO, YWCA Greater Cincinnati
I have had the pleasure to work with Ms. Abdnour and attend her trainings and presentations. You will learn the right questions to ask during an interview, to drafting complex analysis and making the right decision based on the evidence. Ms. Abdnour is considered an expert in the field of workplace investigations. Ms. Abdnour has the skills, experience and background for teaching you how to conduct effective Title IX and Civil Rights compliance investigations. - Mwanaisha Sims, Esq., Director of Policy, Training, & Compliance, San Mateo County Community College District
"You will not find an attorney who is more compassionate or competent. Mark Weiker cares deeply about each of his clients and possesses exceptional knowledge in educational law. I have the utmost confidence in Mark Weiker and I never hesitate to recommend his services." - Peer Attorney
I know Liz from working down the hall from her in a shared work space. In an environment like that, you get to know people and their work. I learned from Liz about her highly specialized practice in helping families secure the education their children deserve. I learned that she’s quite good at what she does. I learned that she cares about her work and the people she serves. I’m also a lawyer, and as a lawyer I tend to get leads for cases I personally can’t help with. As soon as I hear the words “education,” “IEP,” or “504 plan,” I tell the person they need to talk to Liz. If your child isn’t getting the educational services they need from their school, call Liz. - Dustyn Coontz, Esq., Founder Coontz Law
Liz is a dedicated advocate and passionate in service of her clients; she works across cultural and linguistic barriers and refuses to be intimidated. She is a talented writer and willing to consider novel and innovative problem solving approaches.
- Seán Arthurs, JD, PhD, Director of Global Education & Training, EarthRights International
"Mark is an intelligent, thoughtful, and diligent advocate for his clients. He is also honest, caring, a family-man, and all around good guy. Mr. Weiker is a high quality attorney and I recommend his services." - Peer Attorney
Liz is a tireless advocate on behalf of her clients, and an energetic and dynamic colleague. Liz is well respected in the Greater Cincinnati area as a legal expert in domestic relations and special education rights. She is capable of delivering successful results for her clients, even under very demanding circumstances. In 2013, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Liz on a presentation for a national conference of special education advocates. During our collaboration, I saw first hand that Liz is detail oriented, a creative thinker, and a strong public speaker. Liz also demonstrated that she writes with clarity and persuasiveness. - Virginia Tallent, Esq., Assistant City Manager, City of Cincinnati