Our co–founder, Lawrence (“Larry”) A. Sutter III was a talented, astute and uniquely gifted trial lawyer. He was also a coach, teacher, and mentor who touched the lives of those around him. Larry passed away in 2017 after a 22–month battle with cancer. He was 53. His legacy is essential to who we are today.
Larry began his legal career in a large Cleveland firm, where he focused on products liability defense and insurance defense. He made partner before age 30. Throughout his career, Larry was known as a hard–charging trial lawyer.
The industry-recognized this. Larry was a “Super Lawyer” for over 10 years and was featured as “Best Defense” in 2008. In addition, the National Law Journal recognized him in their publication multiple times. In 2013, the Ohio Supreme Court named Sutter to the Board of Commissioners on Grievances & Discipline. He was also awarded the inaugural Cornerstone Award from Stetson University College of Law in Tampa, Florida for his exceptional proficiency in advocacy teaching.
In his spare time, Larry continued his passion for mentoring trial lawyers by leading the Akron School of Law to four national championships and eighteen regional titles. He also served as an adjunct professor at the law school.
Larry was truly larger than life. He had a commanding presence in every situation he faced. The many trial attorneys who call him mentor and friend will attest that Larry was one of the best lawyers to go before a jury.
At the firm, Larry challenged us to be the best we could be. We will continue to be guided by his example of leadership in the years to come. The Sutter name will continue to live in our firm as we defend our clients in the only way Larry knew – Fearless Representation. Anywhere. Anytime.