The Right Experience, the Right Choice for Families
Jennifer Himmelein for Lake County Domestic Relations Judge
Judicial Philosophy
A Domestic Relations Court Judge serves families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. The decisions made in these cases have lasting consequences, shaping family stability and the future of every individual involved. These matters require a judge who is deeply committed to the rule of law while simultaneously understanding the real-life impact of each decision carries.
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Jennifer is dedicated to carefully evaluating the facts presented in each case and applying the law, guided by statutory mandates and binding precedent. At the same time, domestic relations cases are unique and a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective. Each family deserves to have confidence that their case was decided impartially, grounded in law, and with the careful consideration of the implications of each decision.
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As a judge, Jennifer would demonstrate that she is committed to ensuring that the courtroom is a place of fairness, professionalism, and integrity where the rule of law is applied evenly, and families can trust the process that shapes their futures. Jennifer would also work hard to modernize the Court and improving efficiency.
Jennifer brings broad, practical experience across multiple courts and a wide range of cases, providing a well-rounded and informed approach to the law. She has practiced extensively in domestic relations, juvenile and probate courts, throughout Lake, Geauga, Ashtabula, Summit, and Medina counties.
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Her service as Magistrate in the Lake County Domestic Relations Court, combined with her work as an attorney, Guardian ad Litem and Parenting Coordinator has given her a first-hand and an in-depth understanding of courtroom procedure, case management, and the profound impact court decisions have on families.
Jennifer's experience across jurisdictions has allowed her to see what works - and what does not - in court operations. This perspective will be an asset in promoting efficiency, consistency, and thoughtful case management while remaining firmly-grounded in the law.
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​In addition, Jennifer's service an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in the Lake County Prosecutor's Office, Felony Division, provides her valuable insight into the intersection of criminal law and family law. She also teaches family law to law school students, further strenghening her ability to analyze complex legal issues, understand evolving legal standards, and approach domestic relations matters with depth, clarify and precicion.
Education
Applying the law with the depth and discipline of a strong legal education
Experience
Over a decade of experience that matters - serving families, children and the rule of law
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Willoughby South High School (2000)
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Kent State University, summa cum laude, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Paralegal Studies (2004)
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Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, cum laude, Juris Doctorate (2009)
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Ongoing and specialized training in areas affecting family law, such as domestic violence, pension division, bankruptcy, tax liability, business valuation, child support, prenuptial agreements, separate property, high conflict parenting situations, interviewing children, impact of substance use in family law, intersect of divorce and immigration law, parental alienation, Hague convention, estate planning, miliary divorce, among many others.
​Prior to becoming an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Lake County Prosecutor's Office, Jennifer had extensive and highly specialized Domestic Relations experience:
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Former Magistrate, Lake County Domestic Relations Court
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Attorney, formerly specializing in Domestic Relations
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Former Certified Family Law Specialist (Ohio State Bar Association)
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Former Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
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Former Guardian ad Litem
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Former Parenting Coordinator
Jennifer remains committed to her passion for Domestic Relations by continuing to serve as a Family Law Adjunct Professor at Cleveland State University College of Law and providing the annual case law update for the Ohio Judicial College Guardian ad Litem annual symposium
About Jennifer
Personal
Awards &
Recognition
Previously recognized by peers and professional organizations for excellence in the practice of law and pro bono efforts
Anchored by family and community
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Former Ohio Super Lawyers Rising Star
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Formerly AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated through Martindale-Hubbell
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John & Ginny Elam Pro Bono Award Recipient
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Volunteer of the Year, CMBA
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Fromer Volunteer, Lake County Pro Se Divorce Clinics
Jennifer grew up in Willoughby, where she continues to raise her two children as a single mother. Jennifer was a t-ball coach for both of her children and continues to serve as a head softball coach for her daughter's teams through Willoughby Baseball. Jennifer ensures that her children are involved in youth sports in Lake County through the City of Willoughby and Willoughby YMCA, as well as Catholic Youth Organization sports such as volleyball and basketball. Jennifer has supported community events and local businesses.
