UB Greensfelder LLP (UBG) today announced the addition of Nolan T. James as Trust & Estates counsel in its Cleveland office. A trusted advisor to small and closely held businesses, families and individuals, James brings more than a decade of experience guiding his clients through estate planning, trust administration, business succession planning, and other matters impacting closely held businesses.
James’ practice spans estate planning, probate, corporate governance, and real estate transactions. He works with business owners and professionals to design estate plans that reflect their personal, tax, and business goals, and advises closely held companies on formation, succession, and middle-market transactions.
“As we continue to invest in and grow our presence in Cleveland, bringing in talented lawyers who are committed to this market is a clear priority for us,” said Patricia A. Shlonsky, partner-in-charge of the Cleveland office. “Nolan brings a balanced perspective that combines deep trusts and estates experience with strong corporate and real estate knowledge. He’s a trusted advisor who helps clients connect their legal strategy with their broader objectives, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to our Cleveland office.”
Before joining UB Greensfelder, James practiced for eight years at Cleveland-based Cavitch, Familo & Durkin, where he focused on estate planning, closely held business counseling, and real estate matters. He is also the co-founder of Renovus Property Group, a value-add real estate investment platform specializing in the acquisition, renovation, and stabilization of residential properties across Northeast Ohio.
“I was drawn to UB Greensfelder because of the people,” James said. “In this profession, the ‘what’ of the work matters, but the ‘who’ you’re doing it with matters just as much. From my first conversations, it was clear this is a group that leads with doing the right thing—for clients, colleagues, and the community. That alignment made this the right move at the right time in my career.”
About UB Greensfelder
UB Greensfelder LLP (UBG) is an Am Law 200 law firm dedicated to exceeding client expectations and delivering superior, customized legal solutions. The firm’s attorneys advise regional, national, and global businesses on a wide range of sophisticated legal matters across more than 25 specialized practice and industry groups. Renowned for its best-in-class client service and litigation excellence, UBG was named “2025 Ohio and Missouri Firm of the Year” by Benchmark Litigation and consistently earns top-tier accolades from Chambers and Partners. Established in 2024 through the merger of Ulmer & Berne LLP and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C., UB Greensfelder has quickly emerged as a super-regional powerhouse firm in the Midwest and in top-tier business centers. For more information, please visit www.ubglaw.com. Our Business Begins With You®.