Meet The Team
Christopher M. Diedling
Partner with Cornetet, Meyer, Rush & Spillane Co., LPA, a suburban Cincinnati law firm that has served the legal needs of individuals and businesses throughout the Greater Cincinnati area for more than forty years. Chris concentrates his practice in Estate Planning, Probate Administration, and Trust Administration. Since earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2017, Chris has dedicated his practice to helping individuals and families navigate the legal and practical challenges of estate planning, probate, and trust administration.
Recognized by Super Lawyers as an Ohio Rising Star from 2024 through 2027, Chris is passionate about educating clients, professionals, and community organizations on the importance of proactive estate planning and the real-world impact of probate administration. His experience administering estates and trusts provides a practical perspective that extends beyond document preparation, allowing him to teach not only what the law requires, but also how thoughtful planning can prevent unnecessary delays, expense, and family conflict.
Chris regularly presents educational programs for real estate professionals, financial institutions, local governments, senior living communities, churches, and civic organizations. His presentations focus on making complex legal concepts understandable and applicable, empowering attendees with practical knowledge they can use to better serve their clients and communities.
As an educator, Chris believes there is no one-size-fits-all approach to estate planning. He strives to equip individuals and professionals with a strong foundation of knowledge so they can recognize potential issues, ask informed questions, and make thoughtful decisions that lead to better outcomes. His presentation style emphasizes practical application, real-world examples, and clear communication, helping audiences leave with information they can immediately put into practice.
Chris lives in Cincinnati with his wife, Casey. Outside of his legal practice, he enjoys hiking, CrossFit, attending Cincinnati Reds games, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Bar Admissions:
- The State of Ohio – November 2017
- United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio – December 2019
Education:
- University of Cincinnati College of Law, J.D. – 2017
- Xavier University, B.A. – 2013
Membership and Affiliation:
- Cincinnati Bar Association
- Wealth Counsel Member, National and Ohio Forum
- Notre Dame Tax and Estate Planning Institute Certificate 2024
- Cincinnati Estate Planning Council
Mallory Brown
Legal Assistant
Mallory has called CMRS Law home since 2018 and enjoys every moment of it! She interacts with clients, helps them achieve their goals, and engages in day-to-day operations. Mallory is our client’s first point of contact and will be their go-to team member for scheduling, billing, and immediate client concerns. She also works closely with the attorney to assist with LLC formation and Estate admin matters.
Originally from a small town in northwest Ohio, Mallory grew up knowing two things for sure: that she loved horses and the Queen City! After attending college at Ohio University Southern, where she studied Equine Studies, she spent the next seven years working within the equine industry, living in Wisconsin, Virginia, and Florida. After three continuous years in Florida, the humidity got to her, and she decided to fulfill her personal goal of living in Cincinnati.
You can still find Mallory teaching lessons at a local barn or riding when outside the office. She adores Ginger, her beautiful horse, and Rory and Willow, loyal and energetic Australian Shepherds. Fun Fact: Rory and Willow are our firm mascots on-site daily, filling the office with puppy love!
Jodie Stapp
Estate Planning Paralegal
Jodi Stapp has been a key team member since 2016. She specializes in guiding clients through the estate plan drafting process following their consultation with the attorney. She provides personalized support, answers questions, and ensures clients are comfortable with their plans before the signing day. Jodi prides herself on being accessible to the clients and ensuring their plan designs meet their wishes.
Originally from the West, where she completed her degree in Economics at the University of Utah, Jodi has lived in several states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, before settling in Ohio and joining our legal team.
Outside of work, Jodi is an avid reader who enjoys art museums, hiking, and outdoor adventures. She loves traveling the world with her husband, kids, and occasionally one or more of her three large dogs.
Ashley Maxey
Paralegal and Marketing & Business Development
Since joining the Team in 2023, Ashley Maxey has loved serving our clients and Team. She leads estate plan signing, funding, and client trust review meetings, ensuring a seamless and confident client experience. Ashley also focuses on Marketing and Business Development, driving the team’s growth and enhancing our mission.
Ashley has been a notary public since 2006. Her legal career started as a secretary at a bankruptcy firm in Dayton, Ohio. After earning her Associate of Applied Business and Paralegal Degree, she moved to Cincinnati. She expanded her experience in Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Administration, Personal Injury, Real Estate Transactions, Business Formation, Civil Litigation, Marketing, and Business Development.
Outside the office, Ashley pursues her passions for travel, boating, and cherishing moments with her family and a host of friends. Committed to giving back, Ashley serves on boards of local non-profits, actively volunteers, and offers a hand to those who need it.
Jeff Baker
Probate Estate and Trust Administration Paralegal
Jeff Baker joined CMRS in 2021 as a probate and trust administration paralegal, bringing over 20 years of experience to the firm. He collaborates closely with the attorney to assist Executors and Trustees in navigating the complexities of the administration processes. Jeff’s positive attitude, compassion for our clients, and keen attention to detail make him a valuable asset to our team and clients.
Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Management from Mount Saint Joseph University. His education and experience have equipped him with the skills to provide comprehensive probate and trust administration support to our clients during the process.
Jeff lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife, two children, and their dogs. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, he loves spending time with his family and cheering on the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals.