Marilena DiSilvio became a partner at Elk + Elk in 2014, bringing with her a wealth of experience as a former registered nurse and seasoned trial attorney. Her primary areas of focus include birth injuries, medical negligence, wrongful death, and personal injury.
Prior to joining Elk + Elk, Marilena dedicated 17 years to a prominent Cleveland defense firm. During her tenure, she held positions on the Executive and Management committees and served as the chair of the Health Care Law Practice Group. This extensive experience within the defense bar equipped her with invaluable knowledge in medical malpractice and healthcare law.
Marilena was named the Best Lawyers® 2024 Personal Injury “Lawyer of the Year” in Cleveland
Marilena’s exceptional legal expertise and professionalism have garnered recognition from Super Lawyers Magazine. She has been included in various prestigious lists, such as the Top 50 Women Ohio Super Lawyers from 2010 to 2025, Top 25 Women Cleveland Super Lawyers from 2012 to 2024, Top 50 lawyers in Cleveland from 2012 to 2019, 2021, and 2023 to 2025 and Top 100 lawyers in Ohio from 2011 to 2019, 2021, and 2023 to 2025. In addition, she has been acknowledged in the Marquis “Who’s Who of American Women.”
Notably, Marilena holds an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, signifying the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards.
Marilena’s dedication to the legal profession extends beyond her practice. In 2013, she was appointed as President of the Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation, the charitable arm of the Ohio Women’s Bar Association. Additionally, she served as the Co-Chair of the 2014-15 Leadership Institute.
As a Founding Member of the Ohio Advisory Group to the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C., Marilena actively contributes to the promotion of women’s achievements in the arts. She also serves as a Trustee of LifeAct, an organization dedicated to preventing suicide.
In addition to her legal career, Marilena DiSilvio has also made significant contributions to legal education. She began teaching as an adjunct professor at CSU College of Law, where she shares her knowledge and expertise with aspiring law students. Her role as an adjunct professor allows her to impart valuable insights and practical experience, further enhancing her reputation as a well-rounded legal professional.
Overall, Marilena DiSilvio’s impressive background and accomplishments make her a highly respected and sought-after attorney in her field.
Read more about Marilena DiSilvio.
Representative Cases
Marilena has tried more than 50 medical malpractice cases, including matters involving catastrophic injury, brain injury at birth, cerebral palsy, brachial plexus palsy, skull fractures, paralysis, and wrongful death.
Recent Case Results
$2.15 Million – Wrongful Death (January 2023)
The case was brought on behalf of a 77-year-old man who died as a result of his gastroenterologist (GI) failing to adhere to standard care. He aspirated during his EGD resulting in death due to aspiration pneumonia.
Client Reviews
Cindy M. – July 2024
We had the utmost faith and trust in Phil, Marilena, and Michelle working on our case. This was our first time going to court and they patiently walked us through the process. Very honest with their opinions of how they thought the case was going. Always kept us in the loop as to what was going on. Would recommend them to everyone I know who needs their services. Google Review
