About
Janelle H. Cooper is a partner at May, Oberfell, Lorber, who focuses her practice on medical malpractice defense and litigation. She primarily defends hospitals, health systems, medical facilities, physicians, and medical staff against malpractice claims. Her work also includes insurance defense, corporate and business matters, and general litigation. Clients rely on Janelle for careful case evaluation, practical courtroom judgment, and steady representation in disputes involving health care providers.
Janelle earned her J.D. from Ohio Northern School of Law in 2009. She received her B.A. from Allegheny College in 2006. Her legal education, combined with her early experience in public service and the courts, gives her a strong foundation in legal analysis, advocacy, and case preparation. This background supports her ability to assess complex facts, address procedural issues, and defend clients in litigation with a practical focus.
Janelle brings significant trial and litigation experience to her practice. She is a former deputy prosecutor and judicial law clerk, experience that helps her understand courtroom procedure, evidence, and case strategy from several perspectives. She has tried more than 80 cases, including more than 20 jury trials. Through this work, she helps medical and professional clients respond to claims, manage litigation risks, and prepare for contested proceedings.
Janelle H. Cooper is admitted to practice in Indiana and Pennsylvania and is a member of the St. Joseph County Bar Association and the Indiana State Bar Association. She has served as a board member of South Bend Civic Theatre, a session chair for the Indiana State Bar Association Leadership Development Academy, and a committee member for the St. Joseph County Bar Association Local Practice Seminar. Her practice reflects disciplined advocacy, professional service, and practical guidance for clients facing litigation.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, May Oberfell Lorber, LLP
- Member, Indiana State Bar Association
- Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
- Member, St. Joseph County Bar Association
Licensed State
- Indiana
- Pennsylvania
Education
- Ohio Northern School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Allegheny College
Bachelor of Arts
Awards & Badges



- Contracts & Agreements
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Workers' Compensation
- Domestic Violence
- Class Action
- Litigation
- Medical Malpractice
- Products Liability
- Slip & Fall Accidents
- Commercial Real Estate
- Insurance Claims
- Insurance Defense




