Reputable And Personalized Civil Law Counsel
Civil law encompasses a broad range of disputes between private parties — from dog bites and auto accidents to business disagreements and contract conflicts. The Law Office of David A. Chicarelli Co., LPA handles this vast spectrum of civil matters for both individuals and business entities throughout Southwest Ohio.
Our firm has built an outstanding reputation in Franklin, Columbus, and the surrounding communities by delivering results that larger firms simply cannot match. What sets us apart is our commitment to personable, attentive service — the kind of hands-on attention that gets lost when a client is just a file number. Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience to every case, and that depth of knowledge shows in our outcomes.
You Can Come To Us With Many Civil Concerns
We represent clients across a wide spectrum of civil matters, including:
- Personal injuries
- Property damage
- Defamation
- Contracts and agreements
- Business disputes
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Civil litigation
Whatever your civil law matter, our team has the experience and record of positive results to pursue the outcome you need. We do not back down from complex cases, and we approach every situation with the same level of thorough preparation and commitment.
Trustworthy And Reliable At Every Step
We understand that hiring an attorney can feel overwhelming. Our attorneys pride themselves on being approachable and down-to-earth — you will always know where your case stands. We provide frank, honest feedback about your legal options from day one so you can make informed decisions rather than just being told what you want to hear.
We respond promptly to calls and emails because we know your time and peace of mind matter. Trust and communication are not just words to us — they are the foundation of how we serve every client who walks through our door.
Discuss Your Legal Needs
If you have a civil matter in Southwest Ohio, we are ready to help. Contact the Law Office of David A. Chicarelli Co., LPA at 937-743-1500 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.
Frequently asked questions about Civil Law in Ohio
What is the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit in Ohio?
The statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit in Ohio varies depending on the type of claim. For example, a breach of a written contract must generally be filed within eight years, while personal injury and defamation claims typically have a one-to-two-year limit. Failing to file within these strict deadlines will permanently bar you from seeking justice. It is critical to contact an attorney as soon as a dispute arises so we can determine your specific filing deadline and take aggressive action to protect your interests. Read more on our FAQ page.
What is the difference between mediation, arbitration, and litigation?
Litigation is the traditional process of taking a dispute to court before a judge or jury. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR), which includes mediation and arbitration, allows parties to resolve civil disputes outside of the courtroom. Mediation involves a neutral third party helping both sides negotiate a voluntary settlement. Arbitration is more formal, where an arbitrator hears evidence and makes a binding decision. ADR is often faster and less expensive than trial. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators in ADR but are always fully prepared to litigate aggressively in court. Read more on our FAQ page.
How do I file a civil lawsuit in Ohio?
Filing a civil lawsuit in Ohio begins by drafting and filing a formal Complaint with the appropriate county court, outlining the facts of your case and the damages you are seeking. You must then properly serve the defendant with a Summons and the Complaint, adhering to strict Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure. Once served, the defendant has 28 days to file a response. Because procedural missteps can lead to your case being dismissed, you need experienced civil litigators to draft the pleadings, manage the complex discovery process, and advocate for you in court. Read more on our FAQ page.
What are economic vs. non-economic damages in a civil case?
Economic damages represent objective financial losses, such as medical bills, property repair costs, and lost wages. They are quantifiable and supported by receipts or records. Non-economic damages compensate for subjective, unquantifiable losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. While economic damages are generally uncapped, Ohio law places certain statutory caps on non-economic damages depending on the severity of the injury. We meticulously calculate and pursue both types to ensure you receive maximum compensation. Read more on our FAQ page.