Mitchell J. Yelsky

Mitchell J. Yelsky has earned a reputation for aggressive and successful defense of clients criminally charged in municipal, state and federal courts in Northeast Ohio, throughout Ohio and the country. In addition to his Northeast Ohio criminal defense practice, Mitchell J. Yelsky has successfully represented Ohio clients sued or indicted in Arizona, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, New York, and California. Being charged with a crime or being investigated for a crime is a serious matter, that demands serious legal representation.

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, Mitchell J. Yelsky’s criminal defense practice includes all Ohio state and federal courts, including the defense of drug crimes, assaults and crimes of violence, domestic violence and strangulation crimes, sex crimes, weapons crimes, identity theft, arson, money laundering, mortgage fraud, illegal gambling crimes, white collar crimes, juvenile court crimes and OVI / DUI defense. Mitchell J. Yelsky has received numerous not-guilty verdicts for clients charged with felonies and misdemeanors, at both the state court level and the federal court level. Mitchell J. Yelsky has provided legal counsel and defense to numerous corporations or other entities that have been charged with felony offenses and has successfully represented and defended individuals and corporate clients in many complex state court and federal court indictments.

Mitchell J. Yelsky’s previous civil litigation practice focused on complex business disputes, including commercial law claims, breach of contract claims, fraud claims, and land use issues. This extensive litigation experience provides Mitchell J. Yelsky with a unique approach and skill for creative solutions to serious criminal charges.

Mitchell Yelsky is the Managing Member of Yelsky & Lonardo, LLC and one of Ohio’s most experienced criminal defense attorneys. With more than 35 years of courtroom experience, he has successfully defended clients in complex state and federal cases involving sex offenses, drug trafficking, violent crimes, financial crimes, and more.

A graduate of the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Mitchell began his career working alongside legendary trial lawyers Leonard W. Yelsky and Angelo F. Lonardo. He now leads the firm with Joseph J. Lonardo, continuing a tradition of aggressive advocacy and exceptional results.

Known for his thorough preparation, strategic thinking, and client-focused approach, Mitchell has secured numerous high-profile case victories — from dismissals and acquittals to significantly reduced charges and sentences. Clients trust him not only for his courtroom skill but also for his honesty, communication, and commitment to protecting their rights and future.

Mitchell is dedicated to being accessible to every client — on call 24/7 for emergencies.

Relentless Advocacy. Proven Results. Over 35 Years of Experience.

For nearly four decades, Mitchell Yelsky has dedicated his career to defending individuals and businesses facing the most serious criminal charges in Ohio and across the country. As Managing Member of Yelsky & Lonardo, LLC, Mitchell has earned a reputation as one of the region’s most strategic and relentless criminal defense attorneys — known for his meticulous preparation, deep legal knowledge, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients.

Client-Centered Philosophy

Every case is unique — and so is every client. Mitchell works closely with his clients throughout the legal process, involving them in evidence review and decision-making to ensure they understand their options and feel confident in their defense. Clients consistently praise his thoroughness, honesty, and strategic approach, as well as his ability to deliver outcomes that protect their freedom, families, and futures.

More Than a Case — It’s Your Life

“Being indicted for a crime impacts far more than the individual,” Mitchell explains. “It affects their family, their career, and their future. My job is to fight for the result that lets them return to their life — stronger than before.”

Comprehensive Criminal Defense

Mitchell represents clients in all Ohio state and federal courts and has been admitted pro hac vice in multiple jurisdictions, including New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas. His practice covers virtually every type of criminal charge, including:

• Sex offenses: rape, sexual battery, gross sexual imposition

• Drug crimes: trafficking, illegal manufacturing, possession

• Violent crimes: homicide, murder, felonious assault, vehicular homicide, robbery, burglary

• White-collar crimes: money laundering, tax fraud, securities violations

• Other major offenses: arson, conspiracy, illegal gambling, domestic violence, strangulation, identity theft

Mitchell’s client base includes private individuals, executives, and corporate entities, all of whom benefit from his ability to build compelling, evidence-driven defenses tailored to their unique situations.

Notable Victories

Mitchell’s courtroom record includes numerous landmark wins, including:

• Rape case Not Guilty: Despite DNA evident from SANE rape exam. State v J.T.

• Rape charge reduced: Mandatory prison and lifetime sex offender registration avoided in State v. T.G.

• Self-defense acquittal: Not-guilty verdict after retrial of felonious assault in State v. M.H.

• Federal conspiracy case dismissed: Successful suppression motion arising from George Floyd riots in Cleveland in United States v. B.A.-L.

• Illegal search thrown out: Case dismissed and $30,000 returned in State v. W.T.

• White-collar probation: $3 million securities fraud resolved without prison time in State v. St. George

• Major sentencing reduction: From a 15-year plea offer to 51 months jury verdict in United States v. R.H.

• Public Nuisance abated and downtown Cleveland strip club reopened in Cleveland v. C.P.

Contact Mitchell Yelsky

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a crime, you need a defense attorney who will fight tirelessly for your rights. Mitchell offers initial consultations and is known for his accessibility — always returning calls and emails promptly.