Government Relations
From the Statehouse to the courthouse and city halls across the state, Benesch’s bipartisan Government Relations professionals represent clients in matters of public concern. Drawing on decades of experience, the team has achieved exceptional results while helping shape important policy and law in the process.
Overview
Benesch’s Government Relations Practice Group is at the forefront of shaping public policy. Our bipartisan professionals represent clients in matters of public concern from city hall to the Statehouse, making important policy and law in the process. Our team dives deep into proposed and existing legislation, uncovering how developments could impact our clients. We’re not just observers—we’re active participants in the policy process, building relationships with legislators and key officials to champion our clients’ interests. Whether it’s rallying support, flagging harmful measures or fine-tuning the details of a bill, we’re in the thick of the action. We coordinate meetings with members of the General Assembly and state agencies, bringing our clients’ voices directly to decision-makers. We draft legislation, amendments and testimony and appear at public hearings in support of our clients.
No matter the forum, we’re relentless advocates focused on securing the best public policy outcome for those we represent. We don’t just follow the process—we help shape it every step of the way.
Deeply Engaged. Relentlessly Effective.
At Benesch, our team is fully involved in Ohio’s political and regulatory landscape, driving results and making an impact at every turn:
- Guide clients through the maze of administrative and regulatory matters
- Advocate and interact directly with agency leadership
- Appear before state agencies, boards and commissions in licensing matters, contracting issues and administrative appeals
- Support for grants and loans
- Identify and seize government business opportunities for clients
- Advocate for clients throughout the procurement process
- Ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations
Proven record of success at all levels of the judiciary—including the United States Supreme Court
Benesch received a first-tier ranking in the city of Columbus in Administrative/Regulatory Law, and the firm’s Government Relations Practice is ranked Metropolitan Tier 1 in Cleveland by Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms.”
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Best Law Firms Rankings
Benesch is pleased to announce that it has been recognized in 16 national and 58 metropolitan categories in the 2025 Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings.
Key Contacts

Robert A. Zimmerman
Chair, Government Relations Practice Group; Partner, Litigation Practice Group Cleveland rzimmerman@beneschlaw.com
N. Victor Goodman
Retired Partner Columbus nvgoodman@beneschlaw.com
Holly F. Gross
Partner Columbus hgross@beneschlaw.com
Juan Morado Jr.
Co-Chair, Inclusion & Opportunity Committee Chicago jmorado@beneschlaw.com
Martha J. Sweterlitsch
Partner Columbus msweterlitsch@beneschlaw.com
Rachel Winder
Government Relations Manager Columbus rwinder@beneschlaw.com
Cheryl Burchard
Government Relations Assistant Columbus cburchard@beneschlaw.comRelated News
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