John Skakun is a collaborative problem-solver who enjoys helping clients navigate complex development and regulatory challenges with practical, real-world solutions.

John Skakun is an attorney with experience in public sector law, economic development, and complex transactional matters. His practice includes advising on development agreements, real estate transactions, and intergovernmental arrangements, with a particular focus on helping public entities navigate regulatory requirements and achieve strategic goals.

Prior to joining the firm, John served as Assistant Director of Law for the City of Akron, where he worked within the Office of Sustainability and Resiliency developing and executing strategic initiatives involving clean energy adoption, carbon pollution reduction, and environmental contamination remediation. He worked closely with city leadership, outside counsel, and cross-departmental teams to deliver practical, solutions-oriented legal guidance.

John’s earlier experience includes work as a law clerk and judicial extern, where he supported litigation and appellate matters, conducted legal research, and assisted in drafting judicial opinions. He also brings a strong foundation in tax from prior roles in public accounting, where he prepared and reviewed corporate, nonprofit, and individual tax filings.

John earned his Juris Doctorate from The University of Akron School of Law and his undergraduate degrees from The University of Akron.

Education

University of Akron School of Law, JD, (2024)

• Vice President, Moot Court Honor Society
• President, Outlaws

University of Akron, B.S. in Accountancy and B.A. in Spanish (2021)

Professional Activities

• Member, Scanlon Bell Inn of Courts
• Member, Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association
• Akron Torchbearers, Class of 2026
• Board Member, Invasive Species Action Network

• John M. Skakun, Great Lakes Polycentric Governance: Governing the Great Lakes as an Urban Commons, 37 GEO. ENV’T L. REV. 349 (2025)
• John M. Skakun, International Efforts to Protect the Great Lakes and Alleviate North American Water Insecurity in Our Warming World, 32 BUFF. ENV’T L.J. 1 (2025)

John enjoys running marathons, spending time outdoors hiking and paddling, and making the most of time with friends and family.