Benesch continues to earn recognition for its ability to handle complex, high-stakes disputes across a range of industries, with clients highlighting the firm's combination of strategic thinking, responsiveness, and industry-specific knowledge. One client remarked that "Benesch brings together strong strategic thinking, sharp legal judgement, and genuine attention to detail. From high-level strategy through to the precise preparation of documents, the team gave us clear, trustworthy advice at every stage and were tough and effective in advancing our position. They communicated consistently well and kept us informed and organised throughout a complex, high-stakes matter. Just as importantly, they are personable and easy to work with, which made the whole experience collaborative and reassuring. The combination of commercial pragmatism, technical rigour, and a strong team dynamic is what stands out most." Additional feedback notes that "Benesch has extensive industry knowledge and experience. They are also extremely responsive and available, answering demands for legal services immediately," while others praise the firm's transportation practice, stating that "Benesch does transportation better than any other firm. The depth of knowledge and connections is second to none."

In Chicago, Erik Connolly continues to lead some of the firm's most significant litigation matters, including Benesch's representation of Smartmatic in its defamation action against Fox Corporation and Fox News and the firm's work in a confidential commercial dispute over a longstanding settlement agreement. Clients report that "Erik provided exceptional high-level guidance throughout our matter. His strategic advice was instrumental in shaping our approach and ultimately in reaching a favourable settlement before the hearing." Additional shared feedback regarding both Erik and Chicago-based Jamie Ward states, "Erik is a strong lead counsel for any litigation. He's good at managing strategy in high-stakes cases. And he does well with decisionmakers and opposing. Jamie is good at project management, smart, and organized. I'd trust them as a team to handle a large case." Jamie is a member of the Smartmatic trial team and is also a member of the team representing DoorDash in a variety of matters.

In New York City, Rena Andoh advises on high profile commercial litigation and trade secrets cases. One client commented: "Rena is exceptionally smart and savvy. She was tough on our opposition in exactly the way we needed, and she consistently provided clear, trustworthy advice that we felt confident relying on. Her judgement and commercial instincts were a real asset as the matter progressed toward arbitration, and she played a key role in putting us in a strong position that helped us secure a favourable settlement. On top of her sharp legal mind, she was personable and easy to work with, which made the whole process feel collaborative rather than adversarial on our side."

Cleveland-based Marc Blubaugh led on Wright v. Harbor Bridge Intermodal, Inc., et al. Clients describe him as an "Extremely responsive (always available) creative, intelligent litigant who has extensive industry knowledge. Listens carefully, always protects the company. There is really no lawyer like Marc Blubaugh in North America." Another added, "Marc is the quarterback on our bet the company matters, we know if we need marc he will be available day or night."

Also in Cleveland, Marisa Darden is advising clients in significant government investigations, including matters involving the Department of Justice and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Clients note that "Marisa is an excellent communicator. She is extremely well connected and an expert in white collar matters. She is a straight shooter who prepares clients well on all facets of what is in front of them."

Cleveland attorney Eric Zalud recently secured a jury award of nearly $4 million for Blue Sky Innovation Group in a trade secrets dispute involving allegations of international misappropriation and breach of confidentiality obligations, while defeating all counterclaims. Clients report that "Eric is wonderful at assessing large scale risk and quantifying the probability it will occur."

Updated October 2026