Thomas Taneff

Thomas Taneff, principal of Thomas Taneff Co., LPA, has dedicated his legal career to probate, estate planning, estate administration, guardianship, and adoption law. With over three decades of experience and involvement in more than 10,000 legal matters—including over 5,000 adoption and surrogacy-related cases—Mr. Taneff is a respected authority in these highly specialized fields. His work is rooted in compassion, legal precision, and a deep understanding of the needs of families and individuals navigating sensitive legal processes.

Mr. Taneff holds a J.D. from Capital University Law School and a B.S. from The Ohio State University. He also completed a post-graduate legal studies program at Harvard Law School.

Beginning his career as a judicial law clerk under Hon. Probate Judge Richard Metcalf and later serving as a Franklin County Probate Court Magistrate, Mr. Taneff has approached probate and adoption law from every angle. His private practice reflects this depth of experience, guiding clients through complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.

Mr. Taneff has been named an Ohio Super Lawyer every year from 2011 to 2021, a distinction earned by only the top 5% of attorneys in the state through a rigorous selection process involving peer nominations and independent research. He is also the recipient of the 2005 Congressional “Angels in Adoption” award and the U.S. Congressional Adoption Award for his contributions to child welfare and adoption reform.

In addition to legal practice, Thomas Taneff served on Governor George Voinovich’s Adoption Task Force, helped rewrite Ohio’s adoption laws, and contributed to policy through various public committees. He frequently appears on major Ohio TV stations and contributes to legal publications, offering expert insight on probate and adoption. His legacy includes not only professional excellence but also a lasting impact on Ohio’s families and legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Principal, Thomas Taneff Co., LPA
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association
• Member, Columbus Bar Association

Licensed State

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Master of Laws (LLM)
• Capital University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Ohio State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges