Donoff & Lutz LLC
Our Dedicated Attorneys in Dayton, OH
Marilyn R. Donoff
After more than 40 years representing Social Security claimants, Marilyn is one of the most experienced Social Security lawyers in the region.
The daughter of gravediggers, Marilyn was among the first women in her generation to attend law school—all while raising her daughter as a single mother. Marilyn rose through the ranks at a large law firm as a standout trial lawyer. But she never felt comfortable in the old boys’ club, where they were often taking quick settlements and charging massive fees. She left to start her own firm. And unlike the other firms, Marilyn took all comers: she never forgot that she went to law school to help the poor and needy.
Marilyn still has the hard-nosed spirit of a trial litigator. She welcomes hard cases rejected by other firms. She aggressively cross-examines the government-hired “experts.” She takes cases to federal court. She shows up to doctors’ offices to demand evidence. And if you meet with Marilyn, she will ask seemingly countless question so that she knows everything about your impairments.
It is hard to overstate Marilyn’s experience, expertise, and impact. She has helped generations of disabled Ohioans receive their benefits—now often representing the children and even grandchildren of former clients.
Admissions
- Supreme Court of Ohio
- United States Supreme Court
- Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals
- Southern District of Ohio
Education
- J.D., University of Cincinnati
- B.A., Wright State University
Memberships
- National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR)
- Ohio State Bar Association
- Dayton Bar Association
- Cincinnati Bar Association
- Columbus Bar Association
Rebecca R. Lutz
Rebecca went from hardship to Harvard Law School. Now she helps disabled people get the benefits they need.
From a working-class background and the first in her family to graduate from college, Rebecca attended the University of Central Florida on a full scholarship. After graduating top of her class, she went to Harvard Law School (where she also graduated with honors). She immediately left for a national law firm known for its commitment to providing top-notch legal aid to both major corporations and individuals in need. Indeed, the firm litigated the last Social Security case in the Supreme Court, Biestek v. Berryhill. She joined the firm so that she could dedicate herself fully to helping those in need.
Rebecca works hard for her clients. She understands how much it matters for people to get their benefits. And she provides compassionate counsel to clients throughout the process. Rebecca’s goal is not just to win your case, but to help you navigate the bureaucracy with confidence.
Admissions
- Supreme Court of Ohio
- Southern District of Ohio
Education
- J.D., Harvard Law School
- B.A., B.S., University of Central Florida
Memberships
- National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR)
- Ohio State Bar Association
- Dayton Bar Association
- Cincinnati Bar Association
Zachary P. Lutz
When he was 14, Zachary started at the firm as a file clerk. After two Harvard degrees and working for the Supreme Court, he returned as an attorney.
Born and raised in Southwestern Ohio, Zachary graduated with honors from Harvard College and Harvard Law School and received a graduate degree from the University of Chicago. He brings this scholarly bent to his Social Security practice. And to present arguments, he brings well-developed debate skills, honed as the President of the Harvard Political Union and at a national trial litigation firm.
Zachary also spent years working for judges and learning how they think. He worked at the United States Supreme Court. He also clerked for the Associate Chief Justice of a state Supreme Court, and for the longest-tenured judge on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. The D.C. Circuit—often called “the Supreme Court of administrative law”—plays a foremost role in developing the legal standards that govern Social Security cases. It is not enough simply to know the law: great advocates know how to convince judges and address their concerns.
After these experiences, Zachary returned to the firm. He wants to help disabled people get their benefits and live happy, fulfilling lives.
Admissions
- Supreme Court of Ohio
- D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals
- District Court for the District of Columbia
Education
- J.D., Harvard Law School
- M.A., University of Chicago
- A.B., Harvard College
Memberships
- National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR)
- Ohio State Bar Association
- Dayton Bar Association
- Cincinnati Bar Association
Clerkships
- D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals
- Supreme Court of Utah
Judicial Internships
- Supreme Court of the United States
We're here to help! Simply call 937-223-4400 to discuss your requirements.