Toledo family law and commercial litigation attorney Joe Clarke wanted to be a lawyer for as long as he can remember. During law school and his first few years in practice, he recognized that he is at his best when he is connecting with people, listening to them tell their stories and helping them to achieve their goals. Joe found that his caring, compassionate demeanor was particularly well-suited to family law, and he takes great satisfaction in helping guide his clients through this difficult and sometimes messy process. Joe takes to heart his role as a true attorney and counselor and, in addition to providing legal advice, is pleased to offer social and emotional strategies to help people through difficult times.

Joe also enjoys his corporate litigation practice, where he helps businesses navigate the legal system as quickly and efficiently as possible. Joe is a staunch advocate for his clients’ best interests, but keeps a close eye on his client’s bottom line. He is proud to offer first-class representation that allows his business clients to not just succeed, but to flourish.

Joe’s clients and colleagues describe him as someone who listens without judgement, provides thoughtful advice to help solve problems, and who will not back down from a fight.

When it comes to practicing law, Joe firmly believes that “one size fits all” does not apply. When he takes on a new case, he thoroughly analyzes it to help his clients find a unique, customized solution.

Joe’s clients find that he has a highly analytical mind and fearless attitude. Joe brings these qualities to bear anytime he is fighting for his client’s rights.

When Joe meets with a new client, he starts by asking “What do you want your life to look like a year from now?” Then he starts formulating a plan to get there. He continues to revise, update, and work then plan until he gets to a resolution. As tenacious as he is caring, Joe won’t stop until the job is done.

A native of Cincinnati and a graduate of Loyola University of Chicago, Joe came to Toledo to attend law school at the University of Toledo College of Law. The connections he made with people in the community made him quickly realize that Toledo is an appealing place where he wanted to work, live, and raise a family.

Beyond his legal practice, Joe believes it is important to give back to the community, and to serve the most vulnerable members of our society. That’s why he volunteers as a mentor to at-risk children through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and with the Girls and Boys Club of Toledo. He also helps people with modest incomes secure affordable housing through his service on the Board of Directors of the Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity.

Bar Admissions

  • Ohio
  • U.S District Court, Northern District of Ohio
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
  • United States Supreme Court

Education

  • University of Toledo College of Law, J.D. (2005)
  • Loyola University of Chicago, B.A. (1999)

In the Community

  • Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity, Past President
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Ohio
  • Boys and Girls Club of Toledo