Sobriety Checkpoints in Ohio: Are they Legal? What happens if you Turn Around?

Sobriety checkpoints, also known as DUI or OVI checkpoints, are a law enforcement tool used to deter and catch impaired drivers. In Ohio, these checkpoints are legal, provided they adhere to specific constitutional and procedural guidelines. In Ohio, sobriety checkpoints are permissible under both state and federal law. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that…

Who Pays When the Paint Spills? Understanding Ohio’s Joint and Several Liability Rules

Imagine three friends—Alice, Bob, and Charlie—agree to paint their neighbor’s barn. Unfortunately, their efforts take an unfortunate turn when several gallons of red paint spill onto the neighbor’s new convertible, causing $10,000 in damage. The neighbor sues all three for negligence. This situation illustrates how joint and several liability operates under Ohio law. When multiple…

Beth Schaeffer Celebrates 50 Years of Law Practice

The Dayton Bar Association celebrated nine attorneys who have practiced law for 50 years—one of those attorneys, Beth Schaeffer, practiced at Pickrel, Schaeffer & Ebeling from 1975 to 1996, focusing on estate planning and probate. Beth was the first female president of the Dayton Bar Association. Beth also helped lead the association through key transitions…

What the Heck Is a Trust—And Do I Need One? Understanding Trusts, Probate, and Estate Planning in Ohio

If you’ve been thinking about estate planning or have attended a seminar or two, you’ve probably heard the word “trust” thrown around a lot. Maybe someone told you that everyone needs one, or that it’s the only way to avoid probate. Or perhaps you’re wondering what the heck a trust even is—and whether you actually…

Residential remodeling contractors need to ensure their contracts are Home Construction Services Act compliant

The Home Construction Services Act was passed in 2012 as a means to provide relief for certain home construction-related contracts and projects, and to create an exception to the Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act, which, with its treble damage provisions, can present a significant challenge on larger dollar projects. However, due to some of the…

Spooky, Scary, Hal-LAW-ween Lawsuits

Did you know that Ohio has the highest number of haunted attractions in the United States? With over 140 attractions reported by The Scare Factor for the 2025 season, there are plenty of haunted houses, corn mazes, trails, and hayrides to enjoy. However, as with any thrill-based experience, accidents can occur. While a haunted house…

Litigation Preparedness: Why a Crisis Plan Isn’t Just for Big Companies

https://youtu.be/6q9KhsAQ4G8If a legal dispute were to arise in your business tomorrow, would you be prepared? Lawsuits aren’t just for large corporations. Small and mid-sized businesses in Ohio frequently face litigation over contracts, employment issues, regulatory violations, and other matters. Having a litigation response plan in place can help minimize disruption and protect your interests when…