Frequently Asked Questions
Ohio Unemployment Appeals
If ODJFS denies your benefits, you have 21 days to file a written appeal. After a redetermination, you can appeal to the Unemployment Compensation Review Commission (UCRC) for a hearing. This is your best opportunity to win, and having an experienced unemployment appeals lawyer makes the most difference.
Technically, no, but practically, yes. Your employer will almost always have a lawyer, the hearing officer is a lawyer, and the process is legal in nature. Most claimants who represent themselves lose because they focus on irrelevant issues instead of the law.
I charge a flat fee — no contingency and no surprises. If I don’t think I can help you, I’ll tell you before taking your case.
It’s usually a telephone hearing where an administrative law judge hears testimony, reviews evidence, and applies the law to the facts. I handle the questioning, cross-examination, and legal arguments for you.
It generally means your employer had a legitimate, documented reason for termination — such as proven policy violations or serious misconduct. Whether “just cause” exists is a legal determination based on the evidence.
Civil Litigation
I focus on business and personal disputes — contract litigation, real estate disputes, shareholder disagreements, commercial collections, and private disputes (non-injury). I do not handle personal injury, car accidents, or medical malpractice.
It depends on complexity, court schedules, and whether the case settles early. Simple cases may be resolved in months; complex disputes can take a year or more.
If the dispute involves significant money, ongoing relationships, or legal issues you don’t fully understand, yes. A lawyer can protect your rights, evaluate your risks, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Not always. Many cases settle before trial through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. However, I prepare every case as if it will go to trial — because that’s how you get the best settlement offers.
Yes. I represent individuals and businesses bringing claims, as well as those defending against them.