His approach focuses on classical elements of persuasion: logos — skillful legal analysis, pathos — a compelling theme and story, and ethos — credibility and trustworthiness. He excels at distilling an argument to its essence and advancing a client’s narrative.

Kris has served as lead attorney in complex cases at the trial and appellate levels in state and federal court, with particular successes in the Ohio 7th District Court of Appeals. He also recently drafted an amicus brief in the Ohio Supreme Court for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, advancing significant arguments on behalf of Ohio’s business community.

He brings extensive experience to oil and gas industry litigation, regularly representing clients in royalties, contract, and lease disputes. His practice includes navigating the nuanced issues facing energy-sector clients and advocating for their interests at trial and on appeal.

In addition, Kris has advised on Ohio ethics laws as they apply to public officials, helping clients understand and comply with regulatory requirements that affect public service and governance.

A former professor of legal writing and an award-winning writer, Kris is skilled at drafting pleadings, procedural and discovery motions, summary judgment briefs, and appellate briefs. As an experienced improvisational performer, he brings focus, presence, and an ability to take in information and respond in a cohesive manner to oral arguments and depositions.

Prior to joining the firm, Kris served as a master commissioner at the Ohio Supreme Court. As a clinical professor of legal writing at Capital University Law School, he taught legal analysis, research, and writing; appellate advocacy; judicial-opinion drafting; and literary approaches to law. He has also been an Ohio assistant attorney general, an associate at an Am Law 100 firm, and a law clerk to a federal trial judge.

Born and raised in Licking County, Ohio, and educated at Kenyon College in Knox County, Kris takes pride in representing clients and addressing legal issues that matter to the communities and businesses in his home region and beyond.