Check out our latest newsletter!
CLEVELAND’S LEGAL BUZZ
216-222-2222 TITTLELAWFIRM.COM 4 Decades, One Mission Meet Ellen Hobbs Hirshman, a Mentor and Leader in the Pursuit of Justice I never planned on becoming a lawyer. In
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026
From the very beginning of my career, I represented injured people and their families, and I was in the courtroom almost immediately. It didn’t take long to appreciate the deep commitment one must devote to this craft and the many layers of preparation involved in presenting a case at trial. About one year into my career, one case made that lesson unmistakably clear. I was pulled into trying a medical malpractice case against one of the top defense lawyers in town just days before trial. I got my head handed to me because the case was not worked up appropriately. That experience molded my journey forward as a trial attorney, both as an attorney representing the families of injured people as well as defending medical providers, which I did from 1986 to 1994. Interestingly, that top-rated defense attorney who beat me hired me following our battle in the courtroom. The 7 1/2 years I spent defending medical malpractice cases provided me with an invaluable opportunity to learn how to decipher medical records, the medical literature, and prepare and try countless medical malpractice cases. But I reached an inevitable juncture in my career. Despite the amazing experience and knowledge obtained from defending medical providers, I could not deny that my sensibilities lay with the injured and their families. I eventually started my own practice in 1994 despite being offered a partnership at the defense firm. And what a liberating opportunity that was. I was able to establish my own office, staff, and
fact, I more or less stumbled into it. Early on, I envisioned obtaining an MSW and becoming a social worker, helping people work through the challenges in their daily lives. My plan changed during my junior year in college after an older friend offered me advice that would change the course of my life. He predicted social work would not be a career where I would be making as strong an impact on people’s lives. He suggested I go to law school and at least obtain an education that would provide more options. So, I applied to law school, still unsure where that path would lead. What I didn’t know then was just how deeply that decision would shape the rest of my life. Now, over 40 years later, this work remains incredibly rewarding for me because, as lawyers, we meet people at the most vulnerable time in their lives. While we can never bring someone’s loved one back after a deadly injury, I can certainly send a message and try to make sure it never happens again. Everything we do revolves around our clients. Every case comes with a set of facts, good and bad, that you can’t change. My job is to put the facts together to produce and direct that story in the most effective way possible for an audience of insurance companies, juries, judges, and opposing counsel who may not see the value of a case. Just like the characters in the Tolkien stories I love, the client’s experience is a hero’s journey.
protocols for running a law firm. And choose the people I represent. Technology was just starting at that time. When I left the defense firm, attorneys were not yet functioning with computers. At my new firm, I made sure we all had computers, and 10 years later, we started scanning all documents and converting all paper to digital. Even then, I knew technology would become essential, and it has since transformed how we practice law. Now, in this age of artificial intelligence (AI), we must remain open-minded to these invaluable tools without becoming overly dependent on them. With that perspective, staying adaptable, current, and grounded in values made coming to Tittle & Perlmuter the prefect transition for me. Just prior to joining this firm, I had been working for several years with Meghan Connolly, whom I mentored in her first year as a trial attorney. Meghan is an amazing attorney and has known Allen since law school. I had a professional relationship with Allen and Scott, often seeing them at conferences and social settings for many years. Both are highly respected. It took less than two hours of talking to them to see this was the right fit. We share the same ideals, approach and commitment to representing clients. And their
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 ...
1 216-222-2222 | TITTLELAWFIRM.COM
FINDING AWE IN THE ORDINARY THE EVERYDAY MAGIC THAT HEALS US
In a world that races ahead at full speed, it’s easy to lose sight of wonder. We rush through our routines, scrolling, planning, and worrying, and rarely pause just to feel. But when we do stop long enough to notice the world’s quiet beauty, something remarkable happens: We experience awe. This emotion, which is part surprise, part reverence, can shift our perspective, soothe our nervous system, and reconnect us with something larger than ourselves.
Standing beneath a star-filled sky or witnessing a child’s laughter can make us feel small, but not in a diminishing way. Instead, we sense our place in life. That feeling of belonging and connectedness nourishes emotional balance and strengthens our resilience. Encounter awe in everyday moments. You don’t need to climb a mountain or visit a famous landmark to experience awe. It’s waiting in the subtle corners of your day: the way sunlight dances on a wall, the sound of rain tapping on the roof, or how someone’s kindness catches you off guard. Try taking a few minutes each day to slow down and look around. Step outside, watch the clouds, or listen to a piece of music that stirs you. When you allow awe to find you, you begin to reconnect with presence, gratitude, and joy. Awe heals because it reminds us that we’re part of something larger and endlessly unfolding. In moments of difficulty, wonder offers perspective and hope. It grounds us, opens our hearts, and helps us see clearly beyond fear or fatigue. So, pause today. Let a moment of awe find you and allow it to do its quiet, powerful work.
Discover the magic of feeling awe. When we are captivated with awe, time seems to slow. Our thoughts, usually centered on our own problems and plans, suddenly expand to encompass the broader picture, which helps dissolve stress and boosts emotional well- being. Research indicates that awe can reduce inflammation, lower heart rate, and even promote compassion. It’s as if our minds momentarily reboot and remind us that life is vast and full of meaning beyond our daily concerns.
At Tittle & Perlmuter, what matters most to us are results, relationships, and doing the right thing. We are proud to serve communities across Northern Ohio, and we are honored to have received several exciting recognitions for our hardworking team. These milestones reflect the passion, care, and expertise on which our firm is founded. Ladder Down Ladder Down Cleveland is a yearlong leadership and career-development program designed to help outstanding women lawyers grow their skills. This prestigious class includes coaching, mentoring, panel discussions, and networking opportunities locally in Northeast Ohio. Our very own attorney, Katie Harris, was accepted as one of only 24 women into this year’s program. Katie truly represents excellence through her dedicated service to her clients, mentoring young attorneys at our firm and throughout the state, and as a fierce advocate. We know she will excel at Ladder Down, bring new skill sets to Tittle & Perlmuter, and continue to inspire. Super Lawyers Each year, the top 5% of lawyers in the state are named Super Lawyers through a vigorous nomination and review process. Our attorneys consistently make the list, and we are celebrating another win this year. Congratulations to attorneys Allen Tittle, Scott Perlmuter, Katie Harris, Meghan Connolly, and Ellen Hobbs Hirshman. Each one of them truly Tittle & Perlmuter Attorneys Earn Top Honors Across Ohio Celebrating Excellence
cares about seeking justice and helping people during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Best Lawyers Best Lawyers is the gold standard when it comes to recognizing outstanding law firms. Not only did Tittle & Perlmuter earn high marks overall for the region in 2026’s edition, but it highlighted several of our attorneys as well. We’re so proud of Scott Perlmuter, Allen Tittle, and Meghan Connolly for being named as some of the Best Lawyers in America. They excel in their practice areas and embody our mission of making the community a safer place. We are honored to see the work and dedication of our team spotlighted, but ultimately, the greatest reward is being able to help people in times of need. Whether a loved one has been hurt due to a medical mistake or you have been injured in an accident, we are here to support and advocate for you. Contact us to schedule a free evaluation for your case.
2 216-222-2222 | TITTLELAWFIRM.COM
... CONTINUED FROM COVER
innovative approach to the law, combined with my experience, feels quite symbiotic. At this point in my career, I treasure working with the younger generation of lawyers who bring skill, talent, and innovation to their firm. Tittle & Perlmuter has given me the opportunity to work side by side with younger attorneys as they hone their skills and to be inspired by them at the same time. But none of what we do would be possible without the bright, hardworking staff at Tittle & Perlmuter. Our staff is the best I have ever worked with. The success of the firm is intricately tied to their amazing skill and commitment. As I reflect on the practice of law, I learned early on that to be a great lawyer, you need to be a good listener, patient, humble, hardworking, collaborative, and open-minded. You need to know when to compromise, and when the case calls for it, you must be willing to go the distance and fight for your client. It’s hard work but truly rewarding. After four decades, countless cases, and many changes in how the law is practiced, one thing has never changed: fighting for justice and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
STOP RUSHING, START WINNING OWN YOUR MORNING BEFORE THE WORLD TAKES OVER For many of us, the day starts with rushing around, checking our phones, or feeling groggy and unmotivated. But New York Times bestselling author Mel Robbins approaches mornings differently. Her routine goes beyond strict discipline or complicated rituals and, instead, ventures into taking control of her day from the moment she wakes up. Here are four of her best tips to try. Start before you’re ready. One of the biggest lessons from Robbins is that you don’t have to wait to feel motivated. She uses her “5-4-3-2-1” countdown to get herself moving as soon as she wakes up. By forcing herself into action, she avoids getting stuck in hesitation. The key idea is that action creates momentum, and momentum carries you through the day. Build early wins. Robbins also emphasizes small wins in the morning. Making your bed, tidying up, or drinking a glass of water might feel minor, but these small actions give your brain an early sense of accomplishment. Completing even a few simple tasks first thing can make the rest of the day feel more manageable. Give yourself a moment. A unique part of Robbins’ routine is acknowledging herself in the mirror. She literally gives herself a high-five, which may feel a little strange at first. The point goes beyond just the gesture. It focuses on taking a moment to recognize yourself, determine your mindset, and start the day with a sense of confidence. Take care of your body first. Before checking emails or scrolling on her phone, Robbins focuses on her body. She hydrates, does light exercises, and exposes herself to morning light. These small steps help wake up the body and mind without letting outside distractions take over. Starting the day with this buffer gives you control, rather than letting the world dictate your pace. Robbins’ routine shows that how you begin the day matters. Even adopting one or two habits from her morning routine, like moving immediately after waking or tidying your space, can change the way your day feels. By starting with small, deliberate actions, you set yourself up to approach the day with focus and clarity.
—Ellen Hobbs Hirshman
Hot Honey-Infused Feta Chicken
Inspired by LadySavor.com
INGREDIENTS
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp hot honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tbsp crumbled feta cheese • 2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (or thyme) • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. 2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. 3. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. 4. In a small bowl, mix hot honey and minced garlic to create a glaze. 5. Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Pour the hot honey mixture over top. 6. Sprinkle chicken with crumbled feta, then rosemary or thyme. 7. Bake at 400 F for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. 8. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization. 9. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon juice and extra herbs before serving.
3
216-222-2222 | TITTLELAWFIRM.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
4106 BRIDGE AVE. CLEVELAND, OHIO 44113 216-222-2222 TITTLELAWFIRM.COM
Check us out!
INSIDE
1. Stumbling Into Law, Standing Up for People
2. Healing Through the Eyes of Awe
Proud to Serve
3. Transformative Habits That Kick-Start Your Day
Hot Honey-Infused Feta Chicken
4. Meet the Canine Hero That Warns of Seizures
TRAINED TO PROTECT The Service Dog That Changed a Child’s Life
The family of JJ, a preteen troubled by debilitating seizures, was struggling to manage the condition and allay its devastating effect on his learning and well-being. They tried numerous treatments and therapies, but nothing worked well enough to stabilize JJ’s health. Then, JJ’s community stepped up in a way that changed his life forever. Military veterans at Sun Outdoors, an RV community where JJ and his family live in Sarasota, Florida, learned about the difficult situation his family faced and took the initiative to help.
As a way of coping with their loss, LaFlamme set out to help others by giving them access to the healing power of trained service dogs. Canines for Heroes has years of experience matching service dogs with individuals in need. So, Mark LaFlamme and his wife, Sandra, matched JJ with Ezra, a dog trained to detect oncoming seizures and provide emotional support. Ezra is a Czech shepherd, a Central European herding breed known for intelligence, alertness, intuitive ability, and loyalty. Service dogs’ sense of smell is more powerful than any machine and can detect changes instantaneously. They have been likened to a live- in medical alert system. They can also be trained to notice anxiety or discomfort and offer comfort and companionship, interrupting potential panic attacks by calming their human companions. With training by Julie Madison of Top Tier K9, a professional dog-training company, Ezra learned to detect seizures by using his ability to sense
subtle changes in scent or behavior. He was also taught to alert JJ and those around him before any visible signs of a seizure appeared, allowing a few crucial moments for JJ to take medications to curtail the seizures and ensure he was in a safe place. Ezra’s presence led to striking improvements. Not only did JJ experience a sharp decline in seizures, but the entire family felt less uncertainty and fearfulness. As the story of JJ and Ezra demonstrates, bonds between animals and humans can yield near-miraculous benefits.
Enter Ezra, the service dog.
The veterans reached out to Canines for Heroes, a Sarasota-based nonprofit founded by Air Force veteran Mark LaFlamme. As a highly decorated Air Force veteran of three combat operations in the Middle East, LaFlamme knew firsthand the challenges of dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); two of his fellow officers succumbed to the pain and took their own lives.
4 216-222-2222 | TITTLELAWFIRM.COM
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator