Joseph James Lanter

For nearly 20 years, Attorney Joe Lanter has developed a strong reputation across two states for being a skilled and passionate advocate. Joe is focused on providing clients strong representation in a variety of Family Law matters, including divorce, dissolution, child custody disputes, support modification and enforcement, antenuptial / prenuptial agreements, and creating Separation Agreements and Shared Parenting Plans. Beginning his career as a county prosecutor in Missouri, Joe vigorously sought convictions for crimes such as homicide, felony assault, drug trafficking and manufacturing, drunk-driving, domestic violence, and hundreds of others over more than 5 years. After relocating to Northeast Ohio with his wife and children, Joe transitioned into private practice, where his commitment to professional excellence has continued. Joe's main practice area is the broad spectrum of Family Law, and he is dedicated to achieving positive results for his clients and their families through alternative dispute resolution (including mediation and other collaborative practices) as well as litigation.

 

Whether it be a contested, high-conflict court proceeding or the pursuit of an out-of-court settlement, Joe recognizes that the practice of law is nuanced and realizes that no two clients are the same. To that end, he believes that in order to solve problems, he must endeavor to get to know his clients and their very specific needs.

Joe has identified specific attention to the representation of Same-Sex Couples and Non-Traditional Families with their Family Law needs, including same-sex divorce and dissolution. Joe has experience with litigating contested custody actions as well as drafting Shared Custody and Separation Agreements for same-gender couples.

Additionally, Joe serves as a Guardian ad Litem in domestic relations cases in Cuyahoga and Lorain counties. Over more than 150 appointments as a GAL, Joe has represented the best interests of children in divorce, post-decree, and domestic violence matters.