Elizabeth McNellie

Partner

Columbus
T +1.614.462.2651
F +1.614.462.2616

"[Beth] is an invaluable strategic partner who provides timely and knowledgeable counsel."

— Chambers USA 2022

Overview

Beth McNellie serves as counsel for foreign and domestic manufacturers and distributors that are subject to motor vehicle franchise statutes regulating the relationships with their dealers. She is actively involved in client counseling to prevent litigation, although she will take matters to court when necessary. Using her extensive knowledge regarding the relevant statutes and case law within the motor vehicle industry, Beth approaches problems with a practical, business-driven mindset.

Beth also serves as the Litigation Leader for the Columbus office, with management responsibility for the development of young lawyers and department productivity.

Select Experience

  • Counsels clients on proposed transfer of dealership assets, exercises of rights of first refusal and relocations, and defends client actions.
  • Defends actions involving vehicle allocation.
  • Successfully terminated dealerships engaged in incentive and warranty fraud and unauthorized ownership exchange.
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Experience

  • Counsels clients on proposed transfer of dealership assets, exercises of rights of first refusal and relocations, and defends client actions.
  • Defends actions involving vehicle allocation.
  • Successfully terminated dealerships engaged in incentive and warranty fraud and unauthorized ownership exchange.
  • Drafted market representation policies and procedures and dealership agreements.
  • Advised multiple clients regarding incentive programs, AOR changes, post-termination benefits and warranty reimbursement issues.
  • Drafted satellite service location agreements and dealer agreement addenda.
  • Litigated multiple performance-based terminations of dealerships, including those involving claims of domestic bias in major metropolitan areas.

Recognitions and Memberships

Recognitions

  • Chambers USA: Transportation: Road (Automotive) Nationwide (2022)
    • Band 3 (2022)
  • The Legal 500 United States (2018 to 2021)
    • Recommended in Industry Focus: Transport - Rail and Road – Litigation

Memberships

  • National Association of Motor Vehicle Boards and Commissions

Community

  • Miami University Board of Trustees (Appointed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine)

Prior Positions

  • Judge N. Carlton Tilley Jr. in the Middle District of North Carolina: Federal Clerkship

Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit, 1996
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit, 1990
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit, 1992
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit, 1996
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, 2011
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, 2000
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio, 1992
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Wisconsin
  • Ohio, 1990

Education

  • J.D., Columbia University School of Law, 1989
  • B.Phil., Miami University, 1986, summa cum laude