Jess is an associate in Benesch’s Litigation Practice Group, where she focuses on appellate and general litigation. She brings a sharp analytical mindset, genuine curiosity and a creative problem-solving approach to the complex disputes she navigates.
During law school, Jess was eager to explore litigation in a wide range of settings. She gained valuable hands-on experience representing indigent individuals facing misdemeanor charges in Franklin County Municipal Court through Moritz College of Law’s Criminal Defense Clinic. Jess also honed her critical thinking and writing skills as an extern for the Honorable Michael H. Watson of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio and in the Capital Habeas Unit of the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Ohio. As a Legal Writing Fellow, she cemented active listening and effective communication practices by guiding LL.M. students through their initial encounter with U.S. legal writing. These formative experiences gave her a practical understanding of litigation and a deep appreciation for the impact of thoughtful advocacy.
Before pursuing a career in law, Jess spent five years working in both government and nonprofit sectors, cultivating conflict resolution skills and a service-oriented mindset. This work reflects her longstanding commitment to justice and informs her approach to representing clients today.