At DWF we recognize that many people have some idea about bankruptcy. Most people know that bankruptcy is a way of managing excessive debt. However, few people understand how bankruptcy affects other aspects of their lives. At the initial consultation, we discuss what a bankruptcy is, the various types of bankruptcy, and the process so that the client understands what to expect. Then, the client’s personal situation is evaluated and a recommendation is made whether a bankruptcy would be beneficial and if so, what type of bankruptcy.

Some of the signs a person should have a consultation regarding bankruptcy is if a debt has been sent to a debt collection service, a lawsuit has been filed, wages are being garnished, utilities are being shut off, a foreclosure has been filed or a vehicle is being repossessed. We suggest that, even if it is anticipated that any of these signs are about to occur, a person should take the time to have a consultation regarding the protections provided by bankruptcy laws. Bankruptcy law is a powerful set of laws created for the express purpose of addressing a person’s need to gain control over their financial lives. It is the responsible way to manage an uncontrolled debt situation.

DWF provides legal services in a broad array of disciplines that combine to provide clients with full-service corporate and business law experience.  Our services include:

• Business formation and organization (Limited Liability Companies, Subchapter S Corporations, etc.)
• Commericial contracts & transactions
• Buy-Sell Agreements
• Shareholder, Director, and Officer matters
• Employer / Employee matters
• Corporate compliance programs

Our United States Constitution declares that every citizen of the United States of America has certain rights. These rights belong to every citizen regardless of whether one is accused of a violation of law. These rights also belong to every citizen whether rightly or wrongfully accused. It can be very complicated knowing when and how these rights apply. Even seasoned attorneys who do not practice in this area of law may find handling these type of cases challenging.

Any time someone is investigated by an agent of the Federal, State or local government, (F.B.I., Highway Patrol, Sheriff, local police agency, etc.) that person should consult an attorney. Many people do not consult an attorney because they believe they are innocent and the investigating officer will come to the same conclusion. As in any human undertaking, mistakes can be made and the wrong people can be accused of a crime. Regardless of guilt or innocence, we suggest that a person who believes that they are going to be accused of a violation of law should consult with an attorney. An attorney can make sure you receive full benefit from your Constitutional rights and very often can obtain a better result.

In conjunction with our estate planning experience, DWF attorneys assist in the following elder law and guardianship matters:

• Medicaid Planning
• Wills (Preparation and Interpretation)
• Living Trusts (Preparation and Administration)
• Guardianships (Estate and Person)
• Powers of Attorney, Health Care Powers of Attorney, and Living Wills
• Probate Court Services

Estate administration can be complex and emotional for family members and heirs.  Our attorneys seek to provide prompt and professional legal represention combined with the patience, compassion and understanding our clients need and expect.  DWF attorneys handle the administration of estates and confer with members of a decedent's family on the following issues:

• Preparation of inventories and asset valuation
• Assist the Executor/Administrator with preparation of probate documents and accounts
• Make insurance claims
• Preparation of estate tax returns (state and federal) and final income tax returns
• Arranging for the distribution of the estate's net assets
• Will Contest Representation

Attorneys also advise individual trustees and trust beneficiaries regarding trust administration matters, including preparation of trust accounts and distribution of trust assets.

Our attorneys have also served as Administrator of estates, particularly when named executors live outside of Ohio or are a signficiant distance from the local probate court.  We also assist clients in all phases of probate and trust litigation.

DWF attorneys have extensive experience counseling clients on reducing probate costs and minimizing estate taxes while achieving indvidual and family goals.  Our estate planning services include:

• Last Will & Testament / Pour-Over Wills / Testamentary Trusts
• Revocable Trusts (Living Trusts)
• Probate Avoidance Trusts
• A/B Trusts (aka Credit Shelter Trust & Marital Trust)
• Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts
• Powers of Attorney
• Health Care Powers of Attorney
• Living Wills
• Other estate planning instruments and directives

Our attorneys represent individuals in a variety of family law matters, including:

• Uncontested Divorces
• Dissolutions
• Child Custody & Child Support matters
• Spousal Support / Alimimony (post decree)

DWF attorneys have a broad experience in representing clients in state and federal courts relating to personal injury claims.  Our litigation experience covers virtually all aspects of personal injury cases, including:  insurance claims, case initiation, written discovey and depositions, motion practice, mediation, oral arguments and trials.  Call us for a free consultation if you were part of any of the following matters: 

• Automobile, motorcycle, and truck accidents
• Commercial and Business related accidents and injuries
• Product liability litigation

UNDER CONSTRUCTION -- PLEASE VISIT AGAIN IN THE NEAR FUTURE