Check out our January newsletter!
Be Smart, Get Rinehardt
BeSmartLegal.com | 419-LAW-2020 | January 2026
2026 IS A FRESH START From Classroom to Courtroom
For many of us, January is a time for New Year’s resolutions. We pledge to hit the gym, read more books, or finally organize that junk drawer. But as I look at the calendar this month, I realize that for me, the concept of a “new beginning” isn’t just a resolution. It is my everyday reality. This past year has been a whirlwind of transitions. For the first time
provide answers and reassurance during a difficult time has been the most rewarding part of this transition. Beyond the legal work, I have loved becoming part of the Rinehardt family. I have participated in my first firm photo shoot, celebrated at our holiday party, and helped hand out meals during our Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway. Seeing the smiles on our neighbors’ faces was a powerful reminder that our work extends far beyond the courtroom walls.
in my life, I am no longer a student. I went straight from my undergraduate studies to law school. I spent years with my head buried in textbooks while preparing for the future. That future finally arrived in 2025. This year was defined by finishing chapters and starting exciting new ones. In June, I wrapped up my law school career on a high note by winning the Top Gun National Mock Trial Competition. But the real challenge came shortly after. I spent my summer studying for and taking the bar exam in July. Finding out I passed in October and being officially sworn in as an attorney in November were moments of pure relief and joy. Since joining Rinehardt Injury Attorneys in August, the
Even though I am no longer a student, I have not left education behind entirely. I currently coach the freshmen Mock Trial team at The Ohio State University. Teaching these students how to find their confidence and become legal advocates is incredibly fulfilling. In many ways, guiding them through their first opening statements reminds me of my own recent journey. We are all learning, growing, and finding our footing together.
As we look ahead to 2026, I am filled with anticipation. I am looking forward to fewer exams and more opportunities to fight for our clients. I am eager to learn from the incredible mentors at this firm and to continue navigating this exciting new chapter of my life. To everyone reading this, whether you are starting a new job, picking up a new hobby, or just turning the page to a new year, I wish you a season of growth and success. Happy New Year!
theoretical cases of law school have been replaced by real people with real struggles. I have traded mock trial trophies for the privilege of standing up in court to advocate for our actual clients. In just a few short months, I have already conducted my first hearing as a licensed attorney, marking the beginning of my regular court appearances. It was a milestone, equal parts nerve-wracking and exhilarating. I am now actively brainstorming strategy and troubleshooting legal issues while researching and writing motions to advance our clients’ cases. Perhaps most importantly, I have had the opportunity to begin meeting with clients and counseling them over the phone. Being the person who can
-Sarah
1 Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com
Looking Back & Looking Forward OUR TEAM’S REFLECTIONS
As we welcome a new year, we asked our team to reflect on a meaningful moment from 2025 and share something they’re excited about as we look ahead to 2026. John: A highlight of 2025 was spending time with extended family at my niece Emily’s wedding and reflecting on how proud my mom and dad would have been to see all of their grandchildren finding their paths in the world. In 2026, I’m looking forward to seeing how technology continues to grow and evolve, offering new tools to enhance both our personal and professional lives. Hillary: A true highlight of 2025 was exploring New Zealand with my daughter Hannah, where long hikes and stunning landscapes created memories I’ll treasure forever.
In 2026, I am looking forward to my oldest daughter’s wedding and my youngest daughter’s graduation from college!
Kristin: One of my favorite moments from 2025 was the turkey giveaway. It was a meaningful reminder of how special it is to work for a company that truly cares about people and the community we serve.
In 2026, I’m looking forward to leaning into creativity and personal growth by making time for the things that inspire me outside of work.
Barb: One favorite memory from 2025 was going to the Cleveland Zoo with my daughter and sister. It was really nice to have a girls’ day out with both of them.
Looking forward in 2026 to spending time with my family and friends!
Courtney: My biggest highlight of 2025 is officially becoming a first-time homeowner — just in time to ring in the New Year! I’m incredibly proud of this milestone and am looking forward to a very busy 2026 spent moving in, getting settled, and tackling a long list of “fixer-upper” projects to truly make the space my own!
In 2026, I’m looking forward to letting go of unnecessary pressure and making more room for joy, curiosity, and connection.
Rachel: In 2025, buying and moving into our new house was a huge milestone — chaotic, exciting, and honestly a proud “adulting” moment.
Alyssa: One highlight from 2025 is my family vacation this year! My kids had the best time, and I felt so happy and peaceful the entire trip.
In 2026, I’m excited to try more cases and keep pushing harder for our clients at every stage of litigation.
One thing I am looking forward to in 2026 is adding another golden retriever to our family and watching her grow and the kids loving her after losing our precious Quinn. Hannah: One highlight from 2025 is finding my kitten Lucy Liu! Lulu somehow trapped herself in a spare cage outside of attorney Melanie’s house. Once I saw her little face, I knew she’d be coming home with me.
Carrie: A highlight of 2025 was going with my daughter on her class trip to Washington, D.C. I’m a big history buff, and I loved touring the White House and visiting all the memorials. Getting to experience that with my daughter made it that much more special. In 2026, I’m looking forward to volunteering at Night to Shine so our special-needs friends in the community can have the night of their life at prom!
In 2026, I am looking forward to practicing mindfulness and prioritizing personal growth.
Stephanie: A 2025 highlight was a trip to Barcelona, Spain, with my family. My first trip to Europe!
2 Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com
The 12 Trees of Christmas If you’ve ever walked past the adjoining offices of case managers Stephanie and Carrie, you already know two things about them: They work seamlessly together and they love Christmas. Last December, the pair decided to set up a Christmas tree in Carrie’s office, decorating it with lights and ornaments to bring a little extra cheer to their shared workspace. When January rolled around, they faced a familiar question: Do we really have to take it down? Their answer was a resounding no. Instead, the tree stayed — and a new tradition was born. Each month, Stephanie and Carrie transformed the tree to match the season or holiday at hand. What started as a simple idea quickly became a year-long celebration of creativity and joy: • January: Winter wonderland
• August: Summer fun • September: Labor Day • October: Autumn • November: Thanksgiving • December: Back where it all began — Christmas
• February: Valentine’s Day • March: St. Patrick’s Day • April: Easter • May: Flowers in full bloom • June: Wedding season • July: Independence Day
reflects collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to bringing warmth into everything they do. We’re thrilled to share a collage of the 12 Trees of Christmas — proof that a little holiday spirit can last all year long.
The ever-changing tree became a bright spot in the office, sparking smiles, conversations, and a reminder that work can be both meaningful and fun. Much like Stephanie and Carrie themselves, it
Nourishing Immune- Boosting Chicken and Rice Soup This hearty soup is perfect for winter, cold and flu season, and easy comfort meals.
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add oil and sauté white and pale green parts of scallions, celery, and carrot. Cook until softened, stirring occasionally, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in ginger, garlic, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper; cook 2 more minutes, until aromatic. 2. Stir in white rice and allow to toast for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth, chicken, and kosher salt; increase heat to bring mixture to a gentle boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium low, and gently simmer until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through, about 15–20 minutes. 3. Using tongs, remove chicken from pot and place on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred chicken into bite-size pieces. 4. Add miso paste to a medium-size bowl and gradually pour in 1/2 cup of the hot soup broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Pour miso mixture into soup, along with shredded chicken and reserved vibrant green tops of scallions; stir to combine. Continue cooking, uncovered, for just a few more minutes. 5. Stir in fresh lemon juice, taste and adjust seasonings as needed, and serve with garnishes of choice. NOTES Store: Can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat: Rewarm soup gently on the stovetop in a small saucepan. Add an extra splash of broth or water as needed to thin the soup. Alternatively, you can rewarm individual portions in the microwave, stopping to stir every 30 seconds. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to refresh the flavors. Freeze: Place cooled soup in a freezer-safe storage container or zip-top bag. Lay flat in the freezer and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.
INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 bunch scallions (green onion), thinly sliced with white and pale green parts kept separate from vibrant green tops • 2 large celery stalks, diced • 1 large carrot, peeled and diced • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 2/3 cup uncooked long-grain white rice • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or chicken bone broth) • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts • 1 tsp kosher salt • 2 tbsp white miso paste • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice • Fresh cilantro, parsley, or chili crisp for garnish, optional
3 Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
INSIDE THIS EDITION 2404 Park Ave. W, Mansfield, OH 44906 419-LAW-2020 BeSmartLegal.com 1 The Future Arrived in 2025
2 Last Year’s Highlights and More to Come
3 The 12 Trees of Christmas
Nourishing Immune-Boosting Chicken and Rice Soup
4 Our Commitment Remains the Same New Year, Same Commitment
A new year often brings reflection and fresh goals. While the calendar turns and our firm continues to grow, our core values remain unchanged.
At Rinehardt Injury Attorneys, our commitment in 2026 is the same as it has always been: to provide thoughtful, thorough, and compassionate representation to every client we serve.
We believe personal attention matters. Every case is unique, and our clients deserve clear communication, careful listening, and guidance they can trust throughout the process. Behind the scenes, our team remains deeply committed to preparation and strategic advocacy — because meaningful results come from diligence, experience, and intention.
As we grow, we continue to prioritize quality over quantity, investing in our people and processes so we can serve our clients at the highest level without losing the personal connection that defines our firm.
Most importantly, we understand our clients often come to us during difficult moments. In the year ahead, we remain committed to leading with empathy and pursuing justice with focus and determination.
The year may be new, but our commitment remains exactly the same.
4
Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator