Graff & McGovern, LPA – Columbus, OH

Protecting Your Professional Future and Reputation

Graff & McGovern, LPA is a distinguished law firm located in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in the niche but critical areas of Administrative Law and Professional License Defense. Founded in 1993, the firm has established itself as the go-to legal resource for licensed professionals-such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and accountants-who are facing disciplinary actions from state boards. Unlike general practice firms, Graff & McGovern possesses a deep understanding of the inner workings of Ohio’s government agencies and regulatory bodies. Their attorneys, including a certified Administrative Agency Law Specialist, provide aggressive representation to save careers that are under threat from investigations, suspensions, or revocations.

Professional License Defense

Your license is your livelihood, and protecting it requires a specific set of legal skills. The firm represents clients before a wide array of state boards, including the State Medical Board of Ohio, the Ohio Board of Nursing, and the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. Whether you are dealing with an allegation of substance abuse, a standard of care violation, or a criminal charge that impacts your ability to practice, Graff & McGovern stands ready to defend you. They guide clients through the entire disciplinary process, from the initial investigation and compliance conferences to formal administrative hearings and appeals, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and your rights are protected.

Government Affairs and Lobbying

Located in the shadow of the Statehouse, the firm maintains a robust Government Affairs practice. They serve as a bridge between private interests and public policy, representing businesses, trade associations, and local governments. Their services include lobbying members of the General Assembly to pass or defeat legislation, drafting administrative rules, and navigating the complex landscape of government grants and contracts. For businesses struggling with regulatory red tape, Graff & McGovern provides the strategic counsel needed to achieve compliance and influence the policies that affect their operations.

Criminal Defense for Professionals

The firm also handles Criminal Defense matters, particularly those that intersect with professional licensing. A criminal conviction, such as an OVI or drug offense, can trigger immediate consequences for a professional license. The attorneys at Graff & McGovern adopt a holistic strategy, managing the criminal case with a constant eye on the collateral administrative consequences. This dual-focus approach ensures that a plea deal in a courtroom does not inadvertently end a client’s career. With a bilingual staff fluent in Spanish and English, the firm is committed to providing clear, accessible, and high-quality legal support to a diverse clientele.

• License Defense: Representation for medical, nursing, and other professionals facing board actions.
• Administrative Law: Expertise in agency hearings, rule-making, and compliance issues.
• Government Relations: Strategic lobbying and advocacy at the state and local levels.
• Criminal Defense: Specialized defense for professionals to minimize impact on licensure.