EQUES® Law Group Files One of Ohio’s First Anti-SLAPP Motions Under New UPEPA Statute

Filing seeks rapid dismissal of defamation suit; hearing required within 60 daysCambridge, 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 Expression Protection Act (UPEPA), which took effect April 9 and gives courts a fast track to shut down lawsuits that aim to silence protected speech. “Ohio finally has a powerful shield for everyday people who speak out,” said Austin Warehime, lead counsel at EQUES^®. “By filing one of the state’s first UPEPA motions, we’re asking the Court to apply that shield exactly as the legislature intended—swiftly and decisively.” Why this filing matters

• Among Ohio’s earliest UPEPA cases – Because the statute became effective only 80 days ago and motions must be filed within 60 days of service, very few could have reached the courts so far.

• Fast timetable – UPEPA obligates the Court to hold a hearing within 60 days of Friday’s filing unless limited discovery is ordered, in which case an additional 60 days may be allotted.

• Early “three-phase” merits check – The motion argues that Mr. George’s claims fail the Act’s three-phase test (scope, factual sufficiency, legal viability) and should be dismissed with prejudice, with Ms. George recovering her attorney fees.

• Potential statewide precedent – A win would mark one of the first successful anti-SLAPP outcomes under Ohio’s statute, guiding future courts and litigants.

Case background

• Plaintiff: Jonathan George, snack-food executive.

• Defendant: Maegin George, emergency-room nurse.

• Allegations: Plaintiff claims Ms. George defamed him with statements related to alleged sexual misconduct; affidavits attached to the motion dispute those allegations and show key statements are either unmade or substantially true.

• Procedural posture: Complaint filed April 28 and served May 2; today’s motion is timely under the 60-day UPEPA deadline. All discovery is automatically stayed pending the hearing.

Next steps

The Court must schedule the UPEPA hearing on or before

August 26, 2025

(60 days from filing). If the motion succeeds, the lawsuit will be dismissed and Ms. George will seek recovery of her litigation costs.

About EQUES

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Law Group

EQUES

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Law Group is a full-service Ohio firm combining seasoned trial lawyers with deal-savvy transactional counsel. Our litigation team is widely recognized for its work in complex litigation in many subject areas, while our transactional attorneys guide clients through corporate formations, merger & acquisitions, real-estate, and commercial contracts. Together, we deliver comprehensive, strategic solutions that protect and advance our clients’ interests—inside and outside the courtroom.

Media Contact

Rebecca Hill, Marketing Manager EQUES^® Law Group rh@eques.law | 330.600.5825

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