Russell T. McLaughlin

Russell T. McLaughlin is a Director of Gembala, McLaughlin & Pecora Co., LPA with a distinguished career in estate planning, probate, real estate, and business law. Since 2001, he has guided clients through complex matters, offering counsel that helps individuals and families preserve, manage, and distribute assets. His services include wills, trusts, guardianship designations, healthcare powers of attorney, and other tools to safeguard client interests and fulfill long-term objectives.

Russell earned his J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and a B.B.A. from Cleveland State University. His legal and business training provided the foundation for his ability to balance the technical demands of estate planning with the practical needs of families and businesses. For more than twenty years, he has also held an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting peer recognition for exceptional skill and the highest ethical standards.

Russell guides Executors and Trustees through the probate process, ensuring estates are settled and distributed according to the decedent’s wishes. His knowledge of real estate law allows him to oversee probate property transfers with precision. Over his career, he has also served as special counsel for two Ohio attorneys general, assistant prosecutor and magistrate in Lorain Municipal Court, and acting judge in Avon Lake and Lorain Municipal Courts, demonstrating broad legal and public service experience.

Russell T. McLaughlin has further contributed as law director for the City of Avon, special counsel for Avon and Elyria, and counsel to the Avon Charter Review Commission. In addition, he has taught real estate and business law at local colleges and presented at legal seminars. Recognized by the Ohio State Bar Association for his fifty-year legal career, he remains active in professional and community organizations, including bar associations, civic groups, and nonprofit boards.

Law Office Affiliations

• Director, Gembala, McLaughlin & Pecora Co., LPA
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association
• Member, Lorain County Bar Association
• Member, Florida Bar Association
• Member, North Coast Chamber of Commerce
• Member, Avon Historical Society
• Member, North Olmsted Sportsman’s Club
• Member, The Community Foundation of Lorain County

Licensed State

• Ohio
• Florida

Education

• Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Cleveland State University
  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Awards & Badges