Latest Legal Insights

Guernsey County Court Dismisses Defamation Suit Under Ohio’s New Anti-SLAPP Law; Court Sets Fee Hearing for Prevailing Defendant Believed to be the first Ohio decision applying the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UP-EPA) CAMBRIDGE, OH — October 20, 2025. The Guernsey County Court of Common Pleas today granted Maegin Lee George’s motion for expedited relief under Ohio’s new anti-SLAPP statute and dismissed all claims brought against her, finding the lawsuit targeted

A handshake deal feels neighborly—until the weather turns, prices swing, or a tractor breaks down. Everyone remembers the “deal” a little differently. A short, plain-English lease protects both sides, preserves relationships, and keeps the farm running. Understanding Payment Structures Start with how you’ll pay. Cash rent is the simplest approach. The tenant pays a set dollar amount per acre or an agreed-upon lump sum. This method places most of the production risk and reward

Press Release For Immediate Release Date: August 21, 2025 Briefing Complete in George v. George : Court to Rule on Landmark Free Speech Case Within 60 Days Cambridge, OH – Briefing is now complete in Jonathan George v. Maegin Lee George (Guernsey County Court of Common Pleas, Case No. 25-CV-00167). Judge Daniel G. Padden is expected to issue a ruling within 60 days of August 21, 2025. The case raises fundamental questions about free speech, Ohio’s anti-SLAPP protections, an

Imagine you’ve just posted a pointed—but truthful—comment on Facebook about a local developer’s plan to destroy the neighborhood park. The next week a sheriff’s deputy shows up at your door with a thick envelope. You’ve been sued for defamation and the complaint demands six-figure damages. You feel sick: you can’t afford years of court battles or repeated days off work for depositions. That queasy, silencing feeling is exactly what “SLAPP” suits are designed to create.   A

Filing seeks rapid dismissal of defamation suit; hearing required within 60 days Cambridge, OH – June 30, 2025 — EQUES ® Law Group , Friday, June 27, 2025, filed an Anti-SLAPP, Special Motion for Expedited Relief on behalf of Maegin George , an emergency-room nurse and mother, asking the Guernsey County Court of Common Pleas to dismiss a defamation action brought by Jonathan George, President of Conn’s Potato Chips. The motion invokes Ohio’s brand-new Uniform Public Expres

Starting and operating a business in Ohio requires navigating various legal requirements, including obtaining the proper licenses and permits. Compliance with state and local regulations is essential to avoid fines, penalties, and potential business shutdowns. This article outlines key licensing and compliance considerations for Ohio business owners. Business Registration Requirements Before applying for any licenses or permits, business owners must register their entity with

When photographing or videotaping children at events for promotional purposes, it's essential to comply with both federal and Ohio laws to protect children's privacy and obtain necessary parental consent. Federal Law: Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) regulates the online collection of personal information from children under 13. While COPPA primarily addresses online data collection, it also considers phot