Justice Hawkins, Senator Gavarone, and Attorney Kranz Discuss Rural Legal Gaps at Toledo Law Event
Toledo, United States - May 17, 2026 / Zoll & Kranz: Toledo Car Accident & Injury Lawyer /
Toledo, Ohio - Michelle Kranz, founding attorney at Zoll & Kranz, recently took part in a panel discussion at The University of Toledo College of Law, addressing the challenge of expanding access to legal services in rural Ohio communities.
The panel was hosted by the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation and the Ohio State Bar Association, bringing together legal professionals to examine the value of practicing law outside major metropolitan areas and the distinct obstacles faced by residents in rural regions.
The discussion was moderated by Ohio Bar CEO and Foundation Board President Mary Amos Augsburger.
Panelists included:
- Justice Dan Hawkins, Supreme Court of Ohio
- State Senator Theresa Gavarone (University of Toledo College of Law, Class of 1993)
- Michelle Kranz, attorney at Zoll & Kranz (University of Toledo College of Law, Class of 1993)
Senator Gavarone and fellow panelists underscored the need to broaden legal services in underserved areas, drawing attention to the professional opportunities available to attorneys as well as the pressing demand for accessible legal representation throughout rural Ohio.
"[The panel] discussed the importance of practicing law in rural Ohio and how we can improve access to legal services in these parts of the state," said Senator Gavarone.
Kranz's participation reflects Zoll & Kranz's continued commitment to serving clients not only in Toledo but also individuals and families in rural communities across northwestern Ohio. The firm acknowledges that many rural residents, including farmers and agricultural business owners, encounter significant barriers when seeking reliable legal counsel.
Zoll & Kranz provides legal services tailored to these communities, offering agricultural law support alongside its established personal injury practice. By extending its reach beyond urban areas, the firm works to ensure that residents in rural parts of the region have access to experienced legal representation.
"Access to justice should not depend on geography," said Kranz. "Our goal is to meet clients where they are and provide the same level of service and advocacy, whether they are in Toledo or in a rural farming community."
The event reflects a broader statewide effort to encourage attorneys to practice in rural regions and to develop practical solutions that improve legal access for underserved populations.
"Addressing the need for attorneys in our rural communities was the central focus of my Ohio State Bar Presidency," said Kranz. Zoll & Kranz continues to advance that mission through its work across northwestern Ohio.
About Zoll & Kranz, LLC
Zoll & Kranz is a Toledo-based law firm dedicated to providing legal services in personal injury and agricultural law. The firm serves clients throughout northwestern Ohio, with a focus on delivering accessible, responsive, and effective representation to both urban and rural communities.
Contact Information:
Zoll & Kranz: Toledo Car Accident & Injury Lawyer
6620 West Central Avenue, Suite 100
Toledo, OH 43617
United States
Michelle Kranz
+1-419-827-3194
https://toledolaw.com