Malek Khawam and Ernest Mansour recently sat down to discuss their shared Lebanese heritage, their experiences growing up as Arab Americans, and the evolution of the legal profession over the years. Among their discussions of favorite Middle Eastern restaurants, Mansour enthusiastically boasted about Nate's Deli on W. 25th as the best Lebanese restaurant in Cleveland, particularly praising its kibbeh nayeh, a quintessential Lebanese dish, which comes closest to his parents' dish more than any other he's tried.
Mansour reflected on his upbringing as the younger of two children of Lebanese immigrants who arrived in the Cleveland/Akron area during their teenage years. Ernie speaks fondly of his parents, highlighting their progressive mindset and emphasis on education. Mansour shared that the decision between pursuing medicine or law was ingrained in him from a young age. At that time, doctors still made house calls and the prospect of attending to someone's bedside in the middle of the night didn't appeal to him, recalling "My vision of being a lawyer was sitting behind a desk, putting my feet up, and answering the phone, and so I chose to become a lawyer."
Reflecting on similar pressures from immigrant parents, Khawam redirected his career path from following his mother's footsteps in the medical field to pursuing law after a queasy encounter with blood. Both men acknowledged the prevalent immigrant parent desire for their children to pursue prestigious professions like law or medicine. When Malek posed the question to Ernie about the origin of this, Ernie explained, "It stemmed from their background," recalling his father's tireless work ethic, putting in 15-16 hour days for minimal pay and not wanting his children to have to do the same. Eventually, his father saved enough money to purchase a restaurant and bar on Cleveland’s east side at 55th and Cedar. "That's how he raised us, working all those hours. If you didn’t work at the bar, the booze would walk out of the door."
Mansour's upbringing left an indelible mark on his legal practice, as evidenced by a memorable college experience involving a longing for home-cooked meals and the importance of family. While attending college in Loretta, PA, during his second year, Ernie resided in a fraternity house with a cook whose culinary skills fell short of expectations. One Sunday, as he and his housemates lamented the dismal food, Ernie reached out to his mother to convey their longing for a taste of home. True to form, his mother eagerly invited them over. They embarked on a five-hour journey to Cleveland, where Ernie's parents spent the entire day preparing a feast. Upon arrival, one of Ernie’s fraternity brothers couldn't resist peeking into a pot on the stove, only to be surprised by the sight of a cow’s head and tongue, a cherished Lebanese delicacy. Despite the initial shock, they gathered around the table and feasted until they could eat no more before embarking on the five-hour journey back to school. Ernie reflected fondly on his upbringing, acknowledging that he never hesitated to seek his parents' assistance, knowing they would always be there for him without hesitation. He emphasized the importance of community and familial support, sentiments echoed by Khawam, who appreciates the supportive culture at Mansour Gavin.
Mansour often reflects on his dear friend and business partner, Mike Gavin, recalling their journey from the early days of the firm. Despite their differences, they shared a deep bond and a shared vision for success. They started from humble beginnings, transitioning from law school graduates to playing gin rummy in the office due to the lack of clients. One memorable early assignment involved a divorce case where they were tasked with surveillance. Their attempt to tail a woman ended in an unexpected twist, with their cover blown and the subject slipping away unnoticed. Reflecting on these experiences, Mansour acknowledged the distinctive challenges and adventures they encountered in the early stages of their practice. Mansour expressed, “That’s how our journey with the law firm began. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had such an exceptional partner. To this day, I miss him dearly. He truly was a remarkable person.” Mansour expressed gratitude for the legacy they built together and the enduring impact of their partnership. Despite the challenges, their perseverance and self-belief carried them forward.
There is a long list of people grateful that Ernie Mansour decided to pursue law instead of medicine, or private investigative work for that matter. He’s built a longstanding law firm founded on trust and friendship, where clients and employees feel like family. Despite no longer practicing law, Mansour remains the first person to arrive at the office almost every day, a testament to the strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents.
There is no doubt that the legacy Ernie Mansour created is far reaching and endures in the conduct of past and present attorneys of Mansour Gavin. His story demonstrates a valuable principle - the success and reputation of one is dependent on the success and reputation of all. Hard work, coupled with support and an unwavering vision, were the main ingredients in this success story. Whether facing unexpected challenges like a cow’s tongue or navigating surveillance mishaps, Ernie’s experiences enrich the firm’s culture. Ernie’s stories, like the experiences that each of us add to the metaphorical pot, are the spice of life. Mansour Gavin takes pride in its service and transparent approach to maintaining a thriving practice. Mansour's enduring dedication continues to illuminate the firm's path forward each day.