José Mendez Valdez

José Mendez Valdez joined Cavitch, Familo & Durkin in September 2024 as an attorney, bringing a distinguished academic background and a deep commitment to the Northeast Ohio community. His practice focuses primarily on litigation, business law, and entertainment law. 

 

Beyond his legal practice, José is an active leader in the Cleveland civic community. He currently serves on the Associate Board of Directors for the Greater Cleveland Film Commission, where he supports the region’s growing media and production industry. He is also a dedicated member of the Young Latino Network, and The Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association. 

 

José earned his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from the Case Western Reserve University School of Law. His time in law school was marked by significant leadership and editorial contributions; he served as President of both the Student Bar Association and the Latinx Law Student Association. Additionally, he honed his legal research and writing skills as the Operations Editor for the Case Western Reserve Law Review.

 

While in law school, José gained invaluable judicial insight serving as a judicial extern to the Honorable Solomon Oliver, Jr. in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. Prior to law school, José attended Cleveland State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. As an undergraduate, he served as Vice President of the Campus Activities Board and contributed to local governance research, specifically analyzing social media engagement strategies for municipalities.

 

Originally from Guatemala City, Guatemala, José is fluent in Spanish, allowing him to serve a diverse range of clients and community stakeholders. Jose is an avid rock climber, and a true Clevelander at heart. He spends his spare time cheering on the Cleveland Cavaliers, following the latest seasons of Survivor, and exploring his passion for film.