Ryan M. Gembala

Ryan M. Gembala is a Director at Dooley Gembala McLaughlin Pecora, bringing nearly two decades of legal experience to clients across the food industry and public education sectors. He provides comprehensive representation in litigation and regulatory compliance, helping clients address legal challenges while proactively managing risk. His practice spans federal courts nationwide and administrative forums, including proceedings before the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Ryan earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo College of Law in 2005 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The Ohio State University, awarded in 2002. His legal background and business education allow him to deliver pragmatic, solutions-driven counsel tailored to each client’s operational needs.

Ryan helps food and restaurant businesses navigate key federal regulations, including the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA), Packers and Stockyards Act, and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). He also advises on premises liability, allergen control protocols, and employee training programs, helping clients minimize legal risk, strengthen compliance, and protect consumer health and safety.

In the public education sector, Ryan M. Gembala collaborates closely with school districts to address sensitive and complex issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he supported schools in managing student welfare, staffing concerns, and evolving health mandates. His work includes representing management in collective bargaining, labor grievances, arbitrations, disciplinary proceedings, and expulsion hearings. He is also a frequent presenter on school safety, special education law, and legislative updates that affect educational institutions.

Ryan is known for his clear communication, strategic insight, and ability to craft practical legal strategies that align with each client’s mission and obligations.

Law Office Affiliations

• Director, Gembala McLaughlin Pecora
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Ohio

Education

• University of Toledo College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The Ohio State University
  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Awards & Badges