DWS Law – Dittmer, Wagoner & SteeleGahanna OH General Practice Attorney | Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele LLC.2026-06-05T18:03:06Zhttps://www.dwslaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1104498/2025/08/cropped-site-icon-DWS-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Does a formal recall end product liability for manufacturers?]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=494372026-06-05T18:03:06Z2026-06-05T18:03:06ZProducts may be defective due to improper design or mistakes during manufacturing. Issues with products may only come to light after consumers begin returning defective products or reporting injuries caused by product failures.
In some cases, businesses initiate voluntary recalls when they learn about design concerns or a defective batch of a popular product. In more serious cases, consumer safety organizations may mandate a recall. Once the recall is underway, consumers may have the option of returning products for a refund or having repairs made to address the defect. Does a recall protect a manufacturer from liability when products cause injuries or property damage?
Liability does not end with a recall
Product recalls can help businesses minimize liability for defective products. Recallsdo not completely protect businesses from defect-related litigation.In some cases, delays during the recall process can lead to consumers being unaware of the recall or unable to have repairs made promptly. Other times, consumers may have already sustained significant losses before a manufacturer initiates the recall. In either scenario, consumers may still have the option of filing a product defect lawsuit against the manufacturer.Litigation can lead to compensation that covers medical expenses, lost income and property damage costs. Consumers hurt by products that were unsafe can hold manufacturers accountable, especially when recall efforts were slow or the company failed to communicate with consumers.Reviewing the defect and the damages it caused, as well as the information about the recall, can help consumers understand their options. Aproduct defect lawsuit is often still an option even after a manufacturer's recall.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Understanding step-by-step child custody considerations]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=494072026-05-22T12:41:38Z2026-05-22T12:41:38ZChild custody cases in Ohio can become emotional and complicated for parents who are separating or divorcing. Decisions involving children often affect every part of family life, including living arrangements, education and long-term parenting responsibilities.
Ohio courts focus heavily on protecting the best interests of the child during custody proceedings. Understanding how custody decisions are made can help parents prepare for the process and make informed choices moving forward.
Understanding custody arrangement options
Ohio courts may approve different custody arrangements depending on the family situation. Legal custody determines who has the right to make decisions for the children, such as where they are schooled and which, if any, religion they are raised in. Most often, this is shared between the parents, but a court may award it solely to one of them.Physical custody must also be decided, covering where the child lives and when the parents can see them. Sometimes children switch regularly between parents; other times, they mainly live with one, and the other may get the right to visit them.
Reaching agreements outside of court
Many Ohio custody disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation before reaching trial. Parents who cooperate on parenting schedules and decision-making often reduce stress for both themselves and their children.Out-of-court agreements may also allow families to create more flexible parenting plans that better fit work schedules, school routines and the child’s daily needs.
Moving forward through the custody process
Child custody proceedings can feel stressful and uncertain for families. Parents who stay focused on the child’s emotional well-being are often better prepared for long-term co-parenting success.Families facing difficult custody disputes or parenting disagreements may benefit from seeking experienced legal guidance to better understand their rights and responsibilities under Ohio law.
]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Can bars be held responsible for drunk driving accidents?]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493872026-05-06T11:44:54Z2026-05-06T11:44:54ZDrunk driving accidents can leave families facing painful injuries, emotional stress and unexpected financial burdens. In many cases, victims are left wondering how a clearly preventable situation was even allowed to happen in the first place.
While the impaired driver is often the primary person at fault, they may not always be the only party that shares responsibility. The law recognizes that businesses serving alcohol also have a duty to act responsibly when serving customers.
Sharing liability for drunk driving accidents
It all begins with dram shop laws. These are civil laws in place to hold bars, restaurants and other establishments financially responsible when they serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated or underage and that person later causes a drunk driving accident. These laws are designed to encourage responsible alcohol service and help protect the public from preventable harm.For example, if a bartender continues serving drinks to a customer who is clearly impaired and that customer later causes a serious crash, the injured victim may have grounds to pursue a claim against both the driver and the establishment. Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements and police reports can play an important role in determining whether overserving may have occurred.These cases can become complicated because proving liability often requires showing that the establishment knowingly served someone who was noticeably intoxicated. Insurance companies may also attempt to minimize responsibility or shift blame away from the business involved. A careful investigation is often necessary to uncover what happened before the accident and identify every possible source of compensation for injured victims and their families.After a drunk driving accident, it is important to understand all available legal options and who may be responsible for the damages involved. Speaking with an experienced legal professional can help victims understand their rights and determine whether a bar, restaurant or other establishment may share liability for the crash.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[How gray divorce differs from divorce earlier in life]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493852026-04-27T20:10:36Z2026-04-27T20:10:36ZPeople are often surprised when they hear of a couple divorcing after decades of marriage. But it's a fact that gray divorces have increased in recent years.
Divorce is never simple; however, the legal, financial and personal considerations of a gray divorce can look very different from those faced by younger couples. Understanding these differences is key to making informed decisions and protecting long-term stability.
Retirement becomes a central issue
Gray divorce refers to the trend of couples over 50 divorcing after decades of marriage. Because of the length of the marriage, the couple's finances are deeply intertwined. Ohio courts divide marital property equitably. However, in long-term marriages, identifying those assets can be more complicated, which may include:
Retirement accounts
Pensions
Real estate
Investment portfolios
Family businesses or professional practices
Additionally, the longer a marriage lasts, the more likely it is that separate and marital property have been commingled. For example, if one spouse receives an inheritance and uses the money to make improvements to the family home, classification becomes much more difficult.For couples divorcing earlier in life, retirement may still be decades away. In a gray divorce, it's often the most important financial issue to resolve.Couples nearing retirement may need todivide retirement accounts intended to support a single household. After a divorce, those same assets must sustain two individuals, and there is often a short amount of working years left to rebuild savings. Many older divorced couples find themselves reassessing their retirement timelines. Health concerns are common among older adults. Divorce can affect access to health insurance, especially if one spouse relied on the other's employer-sponsored coverage. If the non-covered spouse isn't yet eligible for Medicare, they will need to consider how they'll obtain health insurance and the cost of coverage before becoming eligible. Gray divorce presents unique challenges that require careful planning and a forward-looking approach. Working with a legal professional is essential to making informed decisions and avoiding costly mistakes.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Don’t make this common HOA rule enforcement error]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493832026-04-25T19:22:12Z2026-04-25T19:22:12ZSelective enforcement can constitute discrimination
HOAs are subject to state and federal laws related to housing rights. They generally need to consistently enforce all relevant standards for everyone living in the community. The failure to do so could make future enforcement efforts a source of controversy.
A homeowner facing a fine for failing to mow their lawn might point to how the HOA previously ignored another neighbor’s unkempt lawn for weeks. They might allege selective enforcement and claim that the HOA has engaged in housing discrimination by enforcing the rule against them but not against other residents.
When an HOA does not consistently enforce all rules against all property owners, the people targeted for enforcement could claim that enforcement actions constitute unlawful housing discrimination. Those claims of discrimination could potentially prevent the HOA from escalating enforcement actions by imposing fees, placing liens against properties or restricting access to community amenities.
Those serving on HOA boards may need guidance to avoid scenarios in which the community becomes unable to enforce reasonable standards for behavior and property maintenance. Working with a lawyer when there is a question or concern regarding HOA bylaws or enforcement activities can help board members ensure compliance and maintain the authority necessary to appropriately manage the community.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Can a child choose which parent to live with in Ohio?]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493792026-04-10T05:48:47Z2026-04-10T05:48:47ZWhen can a child express a preference?
Many people believe a child can decide at age 12 or 14, but the Ohio Revised Code does not set a specific chronological threshold. Instead, the court focuses on whether the child has "sufficient reasoning ability."
A judge may interview a child of any age, though the wishes of a 15-year-old generally carry more weight than those of a 7-year-old. Although lawmakers in the Ohio General Assembly are actively debating reforms, the court still holds the final say.
You cannot simply file an affidavit from your child; the court must conduct an "in-camera" interview in chambers to hear the child's wishes directly.
What other factors do Ohio courts consider?
Under the "best interest" standard outlined in Ohio Revised Code, the court evaluates a list of factors, including:
How the child interacts with parents, siblings and other influential figures in their life
The child’s level of comfort and stability in their current residence, school and neighborhood
The psychological and physical health of every individual involved in the custody matter
Which parent demonstrates a greater willingness to respect and support the other's time with the child
Ultimately, the court weighs these considerations collectively to ensure the final arrangement supports the child's long-term stability and well-being, rather than being determined by a single factor or preference.
How much say does a child have in Ohio court?
A child's preference is a factor, but it is not a veto. The court must first determine if the child possesses the maturity to express a reasoned opinion rather than a whim. Judges are trained to spot "parental alienation" or instances where a child is being coached.
If a judge finds the child's reasoning is based on a desire for fewer rules or a parent’s attempt to buy their affection, the court may disregard that preference entirely. The court's primary goal is to ensure the child's safety and emotional health under the "best interest" standard.
Ultimately, while the court respects a child’s growing maturity, the law prioritizes a stable and enforceable environment, ensuring the final decision rests on what serves the child’s long-term best interest.
]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[3 profound challenges of living with a fear of dogs after a bite]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493672026-03-26T14:12:34Z2026-03-26T14:12:34ZThe weight of physical and emotional trauma
A dog attack often leaves deep wounds and permanent scars that require costly medical care. Beyond the visible injuries, a victim can feel severe emotional distress that disrupts their daily routines and health. This internal struggle may lead to a persistent and intense fear of dogs, known as cynophobia.
The challenge of constant high alert
Living with cynophobia means the brain stays in a state of high alarm. A victim can constantly scan their paths for loose pets or open gates while walking through their own neighborhood. This ongoing stress can lead to physical exhaustion and a complete loss of personal peace.
Social isolation in a dog-friendly world
In addition, modern life encourages owners to bring dogs to patios, parks and even retail stores. A person suffering from post-bite trauma often skips social events or public outings to avoid a possible encounter. This forced isolation can strain friendships and limit the victim’s ability to enjoy public spaces.
The financial burden of mental healing
Finally, recovery from a severe phobia often requires years of specialized cognitive behavioral therapy and professional counseling. These costs can quickly grow larger than the first hospital bill for the physical bite. Thus, it is essential that a personal injury claim counts these future therapy needs to ensure the victim receives comprehensive care.
Seeking to reclaim personal peace
Every dog bite victim deserves a future where fear does not dictate their movement or happiness. Since seeking to restore a sense of safety can be difficult and complex, having legal guidance may help them hold responsible parties accountable. Also, having legal counsel may help a victim fight for their rights as they seek to reclaim their personal peace.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Catastrophic injuries that can result from drunk driving crashes]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493222026-03-04T14:54:38Z2026-03-04T14:53:07ZHigh-velocity impact and severe injuries
Alcohol often slows the reflexes of drivers, which can lead to operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) collisions without any attempt to brake or swerve. These high-speed impacts may result in the following catastrophic injuries:
Traumatic brain injury: The force of a crash can cause the brain to strike the skull, which may lead to permanent cognitive impairment or personality changes. These injuries can require years of therapy and round-the-clock monitoring.
Spinal cord trauma: Impact at high speeds can sever or crush the vertebrae, which may result in partial or total paralysis. Victims often face a lifetime of using mobility aids and modifying their houses to accommodate new physical limitations.
Permanent physical deformity: Crushing forces and fire can cause severe scarring or the loss of a limb during a collision. These injuries can affect a person's ability to work and perform simple daily tasks.
Internal organ failure: Blunt force trauma can crush a victim’s internal organs such as the liver or kidneys. Such trauma may require organ transplants or long-term reliance on medical machinery.
These life-changing conditions can require a team of specialists to coordinate reconstructive surgeries and lifelong pain management. Beyond the emergency room visit, victims often face a new reality where their home environment and career path must change forever.
Fighting for one's rights while pursuing compensation
Following a drunk driving crash, the journey toward healing requires a vision for a sustainable future. However, managing a personal injury claim can be complex and overwhelming. By seeking legal counsel, victims and their families may better fight for their rights and interests as they pursue full and fair compensation.]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[Who’s at-fault in a rear-end crash involving 3 cars in Ohio?]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493162026-02-12T07:19:39Z2026-02-11T13:43:15ZA three-car rear-end collision can leave you wondering who owes you compensation in a crash. When multiple vehicles collide, determining fault becomes more complex than a simple two-car accident. To understand your rights, you first need to know how Ohio handles shared fault in these accidents.
Understanding Ohio’s comparative negligence system
Fortunately, Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you share blame. However, your percentage of fault decreases your compensation. You can collect damages as long as you carry less than 51% of the fault. With this system in mind, you can examine how fault applies to each driver in a three-car collision.
When the driver at front may be at-fault
You might assume that the front driver never carries fault in a rear-end crash. However, this isn't always true. The lead driver can face liability if they stopped suddenly without reason or if their brake lights didn't work. Therefore, understanding each driver's role helps clarify the accident dynamics. But beyond the front vehicle, you should also consider the middle driver's unique position in the collision.
When the middle driver may be liable
Consequently, the middle driver experiences unique challenges in a three-car pileup. Another driver hit you from behind, but you also struck the car ahead. The middle driver may share fault if they followed the vehicle in front too closely or failed to maintain proper distance. These chain reaction crashes often require careful analysis of each driver's actions. Thus, you must also examine the rear vehicle's role in the collision to complete the picture.
When the last driver can be responsible
The last driver typically bears significant responsibility in rear-end collisions. If you drove the rear vehicle, you may have been speeding or driving while distracted. However, you might not share full fault if another factor contributed to the crash.
How determining fault helps you seek compensation
Your ability to file a claim depends on accurately determining how all three drivers share fault, as your percentage of fault directly affects whether you qualify for compensation under Ohio's comparative negligence system. Because these calculations involve complex legal standards and insurance negotiations, having someone with experience in multi-vehicle accidents can help reveal details you might overlook and make the difference in protecting your interests. ]]>On Behalf of DWS Law - Dittmer, Wagoner & Steele<![CDATA[How does adultery affect divorce settlements in Ohio?]]>https://www.dwslaw.com/?p=493182026-02-10T16:17:53Z2026-02-10T16:17:53ZDivorce often raises questions about fairness, money, and accountability. If adultery played a role in the marriage ending, you may wonder how it affects the outcome. In Ohio, the law limits when and how adultery influences divorce decisions.
Ohio follows a no-fault divorce system
Ohio allows divorce without proving wrongdoing such as adultery. Courts do not require evidence of an affair to grant a divorce, which keeps the focus on resolving financial issues rather than assigning blame between spouses.
Adultery and property division
Adultery alone does not affect how Ohio courts divide marital property. Judges aim for an equitable distribution based on factors like income, length of the marriage, and each spouse’s contributions, not personal conduct during the relationship.
When financial misconduct becomes relevant
Adultery may matter if it involved spending marital funds on an affair. If one spouse used shared money for gifts, travel, or other expenses tied to the relationship, the court may adjust the property division to account for that financial misuse.
Impact on spousal support decisions
Spousal support decisions work differently than property division in Ohio. Courts may consider adultery as one factor when deciding whether to award support and how much, along with income levels, earning ability, and the standard of living during the marriage.
Why documentation matters
Claims involving financial harm require proof. Courts rely on records like bank statements, credit card transactions, and timelines to evaluate whether marital funds were misused, keeping decisions grounded in facts rather than emotions.Adultery can feel central to a divorce, but Ohio law gives it limited weight. Property division usually depends on financial fairness, while spousal support may consider adultery only as part of a broader analysis. Knowing these rules helps you focus on the issues that actually influence divorce outcomes.]]>