Laken is originally from Wheeling, West Virginia, but she has found Columbus, Ohio to be her home while in law school. She attended Ohio University for her undergraduate degree and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, and a minor in English.
Laken then furthered her education at Capital University Law School, where she graduated youngest in her class at 23 with a concentration in children and family law, and litigation. During law school, Laken served as a judicial extern for The Honorable Edmund A. Sargus, United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. Laken enjoyed being in the courtroom and later found her passion in family matters when she served as a judicial extern again in her second and third years of law school, this time for The Honorable Elizabeth Gill and The Honorable Terri Jamison at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Domestic Relations Division and Juvenile Branch.
Laken became more deeply involved in the family law community by joining the Association of Familial and Conciliation Courts while in law school and attended numerous training and conferences in family-related topics – mediation, divorce mediation, domestic abuse issues, Guardian ad Litem, and parenting coordination. Laken specifically set out to immerse herself in the field of family law, recognizing the complex nature of the issues that go along with family matters, such as child custody and support.
Additionally, before starting her own practice, Laken served as a staff attorney at Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Domestic Relations Division and Juvenile Branch. Laken is currently the chair of the Columbus Bar Association Guardian ad Litem Subcommittee of the Family Law Committee. Laken was named as a Super Law - Rising Star for 2023.
Through her extensive experience, Laken has found that treating clients with utmost respect is paramount. Laken believes that developing meaningful relationships with her clients makes her stand apart from other lawyers. Concisely, Laken cares.
From a very young age, Laken knew she wanted to become an attorney. Her advocacy skills developed naturally through her life’s challenges as a child. Laken understands people and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. All roads led Laken to open The Schodzinski Law Firm.
Laken likes to stay active by lifting weights and running. Laken likes to unwind with pasta, white wine, and the good company of her friends. Laken is a people-person. She lives in Powell, Ohio with her husband, children, and two dogs.