Marc J. Kessler

Marc J. Kessler: Nation’s Preeminent Business Litigator

Marc J. Kessler is widely recognized as one of the nation’s preeminent business litigators, boasting over 30 years of experience tackling complex, high-stakes disputes. As a seasoned trial lawyer, Mr. Kessler specializes in guiding clients through critical litigation matters, particularly those with ‘bet-the-company’ implications. He’s renowned for his strategic thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to effectively represent a diverse range of clients – from Fortune 500 corporations to government entities – across various industries.

Mr. Kessler’s expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of legal challenges, including complex commercial transactions, procurement disputes, healthcare regulatory matters, trade secret and non-competition litigation, product liability claims, business torts, real estate litigation, intellectual property rights disputes, and toxic tort defense. His track record of success reflects a deep understanding of business law and a commitment to achieving optimal outcomes for his clients.

Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Kessler has consistently delivered exceptional results, successfully trying, litigating, arbitrating, mediating, or otherwise resolving a vast array of disputes nationwide. He has advised and represented leading companies across sectors including large publicly traded corporations, healthcare organizations, chemical manufacturers, steel producers, financial institutions, accounting firms, and governmental agencies. His strategic counsel and aggressive advocacy have cemented his reputation as a trusted legal advisor and a formidable courtroom presence.

Notably, Mr. Kessler’s experience in the healthcare industry is particularly robust. He provides sophisticated legal counsel to healthcare clients navigating the complex regulatory landscape, assisting them in resolving disputes with state government entities through administrative litigation. He has significant experience representing clients in administrative hearings and contested case hearings, diligently defending favorable decisions through appeals. For over 12 years, Mr. Kessler served as national counsel to one of the largest health insurance providers in the country, building a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and service, particularly in state and local government procurement matters. His representation has overseen billions of dollars in value, showcasing his strategic acumen and ability to drive impactful results.

Beyond healthcare, Mr. Kessler is a leading expert in protecting intellectual property rights and competitive advantages. He frequently represents clients in non-compete, non-solicitation, and trade secret matters, safeguarding their valuable assets and ensuring their continued success. Furthermore, he has achieved significant trial success in complex, high-stakes product liability litigation, consistently advocating for his clients’ interests with unwavering determination.

Mr. Kessler’s leadership extends beyond his courtroom expertise. He is a member of Hahn Loeser’s Board of Directors and previously served as the firm’s CEO and Managing Partner. He currently leads the firm’s Litigation Practice Area in Columbus and actively mentors attorneys across Hahn Loeser’s six offices, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration. His national recognition is consistently affirmed by accolades such as inclusion in Best Attorneys in America® (since 2005), recognition as a “Lawyer of the Year” in Columbus for 2022 and 2024 by Best Lawyers, and his ongoing designation as an Ohio Super Lawyer. He is also recognized by Chambers USA as one of the top litigation attorneys in Ohio, reflecting the esteem of his peers and the quality of his legal services.

Committed to giving back to the community, Mr. Kessler is an active participant in various Central Ohio organizations, supporting initiatives that benefit the region.

Practice Areas

• Commercial Litigation
• Litigation - Health Care
• Litigation - Real Estate
• Product Liability Litigation - Defendants
• Litigation - Mergers and Acquisitions
• Litigation - Regulatory Enforcement (SEC, Telecom, Energy)
• Trade Secrets & Non-Competition

Awards & Recognition

• Lawyer of the Year: Franchise Law, Columbus, OH (2024)
• Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - Real Estate, Columbus, OH (2025)
• Lawyer of the Year: Franchise Law, Columbus, OH (2022)
• Lawyer of the Year: Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants, Columbus, OH (2018)
• Recognized: Commercial Litigation, Recognized: Franchise Law, Recognized: Litigation - Health Care, Recognized: Litigation - Real Estate, Recognized: Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions - Defendants, Recognized: Product Liability Litigation - Defendants
• Best Attorneys in America®, Franchise Law, 2012-24
• Commercial Litigation, 2016-24
• Mass Tort Litigation /Class Actions – Defendants, 2016-24
• Product Liability Litigation - Defendants, 2016-24
• Chambers USA: Listed - Litigation

Education & Credentials

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) – [To be added - Law School Name]
• Bar Admissions
• Ohio
• [Insert State Bar Admissions Here - if available]
• Awards & Honors
• Ohio Super Lawyer
• Best Attorneys in America®