Page 46 - April2019_BarJournal

BarJournal FEATuRE

JULY/AUGUST 2015
exTra legal legacy

ulmer & Berne LLP

BY PATRICIA A. SHLONSKY

he firm of Ulmer & Berne has Ulmer’s priorities has and always will be civic bond allowed them to succeed in this small
played an integral role in shaping engagement, following the high standards set space where they worked facing each other at
the legal, business, and community by the firm’s founders. a double desk and where one partner would
landscapes of Cleveland for more Ulmer was formed by brothers-in-law Jacob have to retreat when the other partner’s client
Tthan 110 years. What once began (Yank) M. Ulmer and J. M. (Joe) Berne who required privacy.
as a humble practice run by two Case Western graduated from law school in the class of 1908. Yank and Joe’s practice quickly outgrew
Reserve University Law School graduates has Their decision to practice together was based their double desk. While the duo’s reputation
grown to be one of Cleveland’s largest firms. in part on their great friendship, but also as respected lawyers increased, so did their
As Ulmer has expanded and evolved over because most firms in Cleveland at the time standing as good citizens who were committed
the years, the firm has remained true to its refused to hire Jewish lawyers. With endless to positively impacting the greater Cleveland
Midwest roots and steadfastly committed to determination, the pair opened their practice community. Joe has been described as a caring
making a difference in the community. One of in a single office on Public Square. Their close person, true friend, and mentor to young

Jacob (yank) J. M. (Joe)
M. ulmer Berne

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