Overview
In private practice for more than 14 years, Greg Lestini utilizes his experience within multiple levels of government to help clients navigate complex legal, legislative and regulatory structures. As a member of the firm’s government relations team, he focuses on using the levers of public policy to the advantage of insurance companies, public corporations, trade associations and private businesses. Greg is Chair of the Financial Services/Insurance Industry Group. In that role he leads the strategic direction of the insurance practice and represents insurers, from small mutuals to large stock companies in a variety of corporate and regulatory matters.
Greg has served as a legislative aide in the Ohio Legislature and at Columbus City Council. In addition, he was chief of staff for the Ohio Senate Minority Caucus, helping lead strategy, talent development, public policy and other critical initiatives for the minority leader and caucus. In addition, he worked with the AmeriCorps Legal Service Corps following law school, representing low/no-income renters in eviction defense and conditions cases in Toledo and throughout northwest Ohio.
Greg is an active community member, participating on many boards throughout central and southeast Ohio. He is a member of the firm’s Racial Equity Task Force and was also responsible for reinventing a firm-hosted art show, featuring artists in recovery from and dealing with mental health and addiction challenges. Greg also regularly contributes to updates on legal and business developments in the insurance space as it relates to finance and insurance technology by public and private entities.
Known for his accessibility and responsiveness, clients can typically reach Greg after-hours, while he’s in his kitchen, practicing the guitar or building elaborate and structurally questionable Lego projects with his daughters.
Industries & Practices
Education
The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law (J.D., 2002); Moot Court Chief Justice
The Ohio State University (B.A., political science and international peace studies, magna cum laude, 1999)
Distinctions
Listed, Best Lawyers in America (Administrative / Regulatory Law), 2022-2023
Recognized, ChambersUSA, Insurance - Band 3, 2022-2023; Band 2, 2021
Rising Star, Ohio Super Lawyers (Government Relations; Legislative & Governmental Affairs; Land Use/Zoning; Administrative Law), 2018
Professional Activities
Immediate Past Chair, Insurance Regulation Committee, American Bar Association (ABA) - Tort Trial & Insurance Practice (TIPS)
Member, Federation of Regulatory Counsel (FORC)
Member, Board of Trustees, Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (Franklin County At-Large), Executive Committee
Board Member, Greater Columbus Sister Cities International
Member, Advocacy Committee, YWCA Columbus
Member, Board of Trustees, iBelieve Foundation, Secretary/Treasurer
Member, Bricker Graydon's Southeast Ohio team
Experience
Insights
News
Blog Posts
Podcasts
Presentations & Publications
Speaking Engagements
Publications
Admissions
- Admitted, State of Ohio; U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio
- Member, Ohio State Bar Association; American Bar Association