Women’s History Month: Florence Ellinwood Allen – First Woman Elected to a Judicial Office in the United States

By Erica K. Williams, Esq. In our final installment of highlighting women who blazed a path for women attorneys, we introduce you to Florence Ellinwood Allen. Born in 1884, Florence grew up in Cleveland and graduated from Western Reserve University with a degree in music.  When her music career was cut short by an injury, […]

5 Considerations for Drafting Your COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

By Jonathan T. Hyman, Esq. At some point over the next several months, most of your employees will receive one of the various COVID-19 vaccines that the Food & Drug Administration has approved for Emergency Use Authorization. As your employees consider whether and when to obtain the vaccine, you, as their employer, have numerous issues [...]

COVID-19 Leave and Tax Credit Extension

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. As you are likely aware, the required leave initially provided for under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”), including the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (“EPSLA”) and the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Act (“EFLMA”), became voluntary for employers as of January 1, 2021.  Those employers who continued to [...]

Women’s History Month: Arabella Mansfield – First Female Admitted to the Legal Profession in the United States

By Malorie A. Alverson, Esq. In our continued mission to acknowledge the women who have broken through barriers to create pathways for our future, we commend the efforts of Arabella Mansfield.  Arabella has the distinction of being the first woman admitted to the legal profession in the United States.  Because she did not attend law […]

Women’s History Month: First Female Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor

By Julie A. Vaccarelli, Esq. Most Americans have heard the name Sandra Day O’Connor, but did you know upon graduating from Stanford Law School in 1952, there were so few opportunities for female attorneys that she worked with no pay and without an office for the county attorney of San Mateo, California?  She turned that […]

Wickens Herzer Panza Welcomes Attorney Jonathan T. Hyman

Wickens Herzer Panza is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Jonathan T. Hyman to its Board of Directors, Litigation Department, and Employment & Labor practice team. He focuses his practice on management-side labor and employment law, providing businesses proactive solutions to solve their workforce problems and reactive solutions when they find themselves litigating against [...]

Women’s History Month: Trailblazer Annette Cronise Lutes

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. Annette “Nettie” Cronise Lutes – you probably do not know this name, but if you are a female attorney in Ohio, you probably should.  Nettie was the trailblazer who paved the way for women in the legal profession in Ohio.  Ms. Cronise Lutes was born in Tiffin, Ohio and graduated […]

Wickens Herzer Panza Advises Webster Industries, Inc. in its Acquisition of Action Equipment Company

AVON, OHIO – March 3, 2021 On March 2, 2021, Webster Industries, Inc., an employee-owned company, announced its acquisition of Action Equipment Company in Newburg, Oregon.  Webster, located in Tiffin, Ohio, is an industry leader in conveyor chain, sprockets, vibrating conveyors and specialty castings.   Action is also a leading manufacturer of vibratory conveying and process […]

Matthew Nakon named to Cleveland Magazine’s “The Cleveland 500” for 2021

Wickens Herzer Panza congratulates Matthew W. Nakon for his inclusion in Cleveland Magazine's 2021 edition of "The Cleveland 500". "The Cleveland 500" is list of influencers that are more than just successful.  They have a forward-thinking mindset, a unified vision, boundless creativity and the ability to lead.  They guide from behind the scenes, as well [...]

Year End FFCRA Paid Leave Considerations

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. Unless extended by Congress, the paid leave provisions under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) are set to expire on December 31, 2020.  This means that upon expiration of the FFCRA paid leave provisions, employers will no longer be required to provide paid leave to employees for the following […]

6 WHP Attorneys Recognized on 2021 Ohio Super Lawyers List; 3 Recognized as Rising Stars

We’re proud to announce the following six attorneys have been named to the 2021 Ohio Super Lawyers® List based on peer nominations that were submitted, reviewed and researched by Super Lawyers: Arthur E. Gibbs III, Estate & Probate Richard A. Naegele, Employee Benefits Matthew W. Nakon, Business Litigation Richard D. Panza, Business Litigation Christopher W. […]

PPP Loan Necessity Questionnaire

By Brandon J. Leal, Esq. The Small Business Administration (the “SBA”) has issued a new questionnaire that all Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) borrowers that received a loan of $2 million or more must complete. Based on current commentary and available information, this requirement will not be asked of parties who received less than $2 million […]

Wickens Herzer Panza Receives 2021 “Best Law Firms” Ranking

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® have released their 2021 “Best Law Firms” rankings and we’re proud to share that Wickens Herzer Panza has been listed in multiple areas. Rankings as a “Best Law Firm” recognize Firms for their professional excellence and consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. According to Best Lawyers, “achieving a tiered [...]

New Program Authorized to Provide Relief for Ohio Small Businesses – Apply Today!

By Brandon A. Wojtasik, Esq. Governor Mike DeWine approved $125 million of Federal CARES Act funding to provide $10,000 grants to qualifying Ohio small businesses. The qualifications under this new Small Business Relief Grant (“SBRG”) program are provided below. Qualifying businesses can begin applying today, and the grants will be awarded on a first-come-first-serve basis. […]

Companies Need to Budget Now for Minimum Wage Increase

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. As we move through the fourth quarter and companies are planning budgets for 2021, one factor that must be considered is the increase to Ohio’s minimum wage.  Effective January 21, 2021, for companies with annual gross receipts over $323,000.00, Ohio’s general minimum wage for non-tipped employees will increase to $8.80/hr. [...]

Department of Labor Issues Proposed Rule Defining Independent Contractor Status

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. The question of whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor has long been a thorn in employers’ sides.  With the Department of Labor’s (“DOL”) recent announcement of a proposed rule change, there may be some relief on the horizon.  The proposed rule issued by the DOL on September […]

Wickens Herzer Panza Welcomes Attorney Brandon A. Wojtasik

Wickens Herzer Panza is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Brandon A. Wojtasik to its Corporate & Business Transactions practice team. Brandon A. Wojtasik, Esq. Brandon's practice is focused on a variety of corporate and business law matters, including corporate transactions, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and private equity. He has counseled a broad [...]

COVID-19 Civil Immunity for Businesses

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. Yesterday, Governor DeWine signed H.B. 606 which provides civil immunity against actions for injury, death or loss stemming from exposure to COVID-19.  Under this new legislation, which is retroactive to March 9, 2020 and expires of September 30, 2021, businesses are provided some immunity from actions relating to COVID-19, provided […]

5 WHP Attorneys Named in The Best Lawyers in America© 2021

Wickens Herzer Panza is pleased to announce that five attorneys have been named in the 27th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©. This recognition is earned through peer nominations and reviews and is intended to capture "the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues within the same geographical area [...]

Workers’ Compensation Group Rating Program

At Wickens Herzer Panza we administer a group rating program (through Trident, sponsored by NEOSC) to assist our client group members in reducing their workers’ compensation premiums. A group rating program allows employers to pool together through a sponsoring organization to combine their risk and liability, and therefore reduce the amount of workers’ compensation premium […]

Latest Rule Change for PPP Forgiveness

By Julie A. Vaccarelli, Esq. In the ever-changing world of Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and the parameters for forgiveness, the President signed the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (“PPPFA”) June 6, 2020. The key takeaways are as follows: The ratio of payroll to expenses changed. In the original rule, borrowers were required to spend 75% […]

PPP Loan Forgiveness Application

By Christopher W. Peer, Esq. and Benjamin M. Cooke, Esq. Forgiveness has been one of the primary topics of discussion surrounding the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) for weeks (especially for small businesses receiving less than $2 million in PPP funds).  Finally, some official guidance is out on how employers will report their use of PPP […]

Good Faith Certification for Necessity of PPP Loans Causing Concern?  Worry No More!

By Julie A. Vaccarelli, Esq. and Brandon J. Leal, Esq. Late in the morning on Tuesday, May 13, 2020, the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) released additional guidance regarding loan forgiveness under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) that many borrowers have been waiting for.  This additional guidance clarifies only one issue:  good faith economic necessity and […]

Potential Backstops May Cover COVID-19 Pandemic Business Interruption Losses

By Wilbert V. Farrell IV, Esq. and Matthew N. Danese, Esq. There have been multiple recent efforts by various interested actors to provide potential backstops that may cover COVID-19 business interruption losses, which would affect Ohio businesses. 1.  If Passed into Law, Ohio H.B. 589 Would Provide Business Interruption Coverage for Some Ohio-Based Companies. First, […]

Ohio Unemployment and Employee’s Refusal to Return to Work While Receiving COVID-19 Benefits

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, the State of Ohio expanded employees’ opportunities to receive unemployment benefits. This, along with the additional unemployment benefits provided under recently passed federal legislation, makes unemployment a lucrative and appealing option for many employees. With the potential for businesses to reopen and/or expand services […]

Not Complying with the Stay at Home Order? Be Prepared for the Legal Consequences.

By Michael R. Nakon, Esq. and Matthew N. Danese, Esq. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to grip states across the country, Ohio businesses have been among the earliest to feel the effects of a state imposed Stay at Home Order, with some non-essential businesses choosing to ignore the mandates of Governor DeWine and Ohio’s Director […]

You Received Your PPP Funds; Now What?

By: Christopher W. Peer. Esq. and John A. Polinko, Esq. To believe the reports and news stories, the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) has been a success in that thousands of small businesses have been able to take advantage of the relief it provides, but the road was less than smooth. The prevailing thought is that […]

Changes to Payroll Reporting as a Result of COVID-19

From:  Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation To:  Third Party Administrators/Employer Representatives   The BWC-Employer Services Division will implement two changes in payroll reporting requirements as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and state of emergency. Please refer to the details below regarding  the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and reportable wages associated with teleworking staff.  […]

CARES Act Update: Retirement Plan Relief

By Richard A. Naegele, Esq. The retirement savings of the American people have been devastated by the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) includes a series of provisions intended to help American’s retirement savings recover once the crisis abates. There are three primary retirement relief […]

IRS Families First Coronavirus Response Act Guidance

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. In order to assist employers with determining tax implications and tax credits available under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA” or “Act”), the IRS recently issued guidance. An immediate concern of employers is what they should be doing to document leave taken under the FFCRA in order to have […]

Employer Update: Families First Coronavirus Response Act, Ohio Stay At Home Order, and Other COVID-19 Employment Related Matters

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. and Matthew N. Danese, Esq. With the recent passage of legislation at both the state and federal levels, employers have been scrambling to determine whether they fall under the various provisions and what must be done to comply with the new laws. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA” or […]

CARES Act to Provide Critical Funding for Small Businesses to Retain Workforces and Get Back to Work

By Christopher W. Peer, Esq. and John A. Polinko, Esq. In response to the unparalleled upheaval of the U.S. economy as a result of the COVID-19 crisis, the U.S. Government has put into place solutions that workers and small businesses can utilize to survive in the immediate term and, potentially, thrive following the slow-down or […]

DOL Guidance for the Implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. The Department of Labor recently issued additional guidance in the form of FAQs to address many of the questions raised by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).  Below is a link to the DOL posting. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-questions   This article provides an overview and summary of the matters described therein.  […]

The Small Business Provisions of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act

By Brandon J. Leal, Esq. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act package is huge (over 800 pages).  It contains tax relief, a wide range of health care provisions (including large subsidies for the industry, loosening of regulations to increase access to “telehealth” services, and increased access to tax-favored health accounts), unemployment insurance, […]

Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Department of Labor Guidance

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. The Department of Labor (“DOL”) recently issued guidance on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“Act”).  Additional guidance in the way of regulations is expected in April. Employers should take note that the DOL guidance provides the effective date of the Act is April 1st, rather than April 2nd as […]

Business Operations, Cash Needs, and Lender Options

By Christopher W. Peer, Esq. and John A. Polinko, Esq. These are unprecedented times. Coronavirus has created significant market volatility in addition to the health crisis. If you are in grocery, pharma or healthcare, opportunities abound. If your business is entertainment or non-specific manufacturing, times are very tough. No matter how unfamiliar this “new normal” […]

Coronavirus Impact to Commercial Property Owners

By Brian W. Bonham, Esq. and Brandon J. Leal, Esq. The coronavirus crisis is having a devastating economic impact on every aspect of the economy. Owners of leased commercial property should start acting proactively to protect their interests. All need to start considering how this crisis will impact tenants. At times such as this, it […]

The Current State of Construction Projects in Ohio after the Ohio Department of Health Director’s Stay At Home Order of March 22, 2020

By Michael R. Fortney, Esq. The Ohio Department of Health Director’s Stay At Home Order of March 22, 2020 (“Order”), allows the construction industry to continue working on projects related to “Essential Infrastructure” as well as critical trades (including plumbers, electricians, exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, operating engineers, […]

Our Firm’s Commitment to Our Clients and Employees

In our desire to provide the safest possible environment for our clients and employees, while managing governmental directives, we want to keep you apprised of our plans as we move forward. At present, the Stay at Home Order issued by Ohio Department of Health Director, Dr. Amy Acton, has identified Law Firms as essential businesses. […]

COVID-19 Response: Ohio Governor Orders Ohioans to Stay at Home

By Benjamin M. Cooke, Esq. In response to the continuing coronavirus pandemic, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has been one of the more aggressive governors responding to the crisis.  On Sunday, March 22, Governor DeWine, through Ohio Department of Health Director, Dr. Amy Acton, issued the Order that All Persons Stay at Home Unless Engaged in […]

Ohio BWC Announces Payment Deadlines Extended

By Matthew N. Danese, Esq. On Saturday March 21, 2020, Ohio Lt. Governor Husted and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation announced that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, employer’s premium installment payments due for March, April, and May may be deferred until June 1, 2020.  At that time, the matter will be reconsidered by the […]

Families First Coronavirus Response Act:  Implications for Employers

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“Act”) was passed by the Senate and signed by President Trump on March 18, 2020.  According to recent guidance issued by the Department of Labor, the Act will go into effect on April 1, 2020, employers must immediately determine its impact on their policies and […]

Ohio Unemployment and COVID-19

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. On March 15, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that he was issuing an order relaxing the requirements to receive unemployment benefits in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The order will allow those subject to quarantine by a physician or an employer and those who are unable to work due to a […]

A Message from our Firm’s President, Matthew W. Nakon

Dear Clients and Friends of WHP: As COVID-19 continues to spread, the uncertainty and fluidity of the situation forces us to face this challenge directly.  At WHP, our primary focus is the health and safety of our people, their families, and that of our clients and other colleagues.  We live and work in a great […]

Covid-19: Employment Law FAQs and Guidance

By Amy L. DeLuca, Esq. and Matthew N. Danese, Esq. Employers, as well as their employees, are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation.  With schools closing and officials urging social distancing, several questions arise relating to working arrangements, paid time off and other employment considerations.  Based on guidance from the United States Centers for Disease Control and […]

Ohio Industrial Commission Workers’ Compensation Hearings

The Ohio Industrial Commission announced today that all workers’ compensation hearings will be suspended from Monday, March 16 to Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Beginning Wednesday, March 18, the Commission will begin conducting hearings by telephone for the following issues: permanent total disability, temporary total disability or the termination of temporary total disability, wage loss, allowance […]

SECURE Act Update

On Friday December 20, 2019, the SECURE Act was signed into law. This new legislation, which became effective January 1, 2020, drastically changes the landscape for estate plans involving retirement accounts. The purpose of this letter is to make you aware of the basic changes in the law and briefly explain how this may impact […]

7 WHP Attorneys Recognized on 2020 Ohio Super Lawyers List; 2 Recognized as Rising Stars

We’re proud to announce the following attorneys have been named to the 2020 Ohio Super Lawyers List based on peer nominations that were submitted, reviewed and researched by Super Lawyers: Arthur E. Gibbs III, Estate Planning & Probate Richard A. Naegele, Employment & Labor Matthew W. Nakon, Litigation Richard D. Panza, Litigation Christopher W. Peer, […]

Wickens Herzer Panza receives “Best Law Firm” Ranking

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® have released their 2020 “Best Law Firms” rankings and we’re proud to share that Wickens Herzer Panza has been listed in multiple areas. Rankings as a “Best Law Firm” recognize Firms for their professional excellence and consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. According to Best Lawyers, “achieving […]

Building Collapse During Construction

By Philip J. Truax, Esq. Renovation and rehabilitation projects continue to flourish in Ohio, as owners and developers prefer in some instances to salvage older structures.  This is a good thing.  These original buildings tell a story about who we are, and as an industry, we should work hard to keep, improve, and/or re-purpose them. […]

Time For Your Company’s Year-End HR Check-Up

By Amy DeLuca, Esq. When was the last time you reviewed and updated your employee handbook?  What about job descriptions?  Do you have them?  As the year is coming to an end, now is the ideal time to conduct a check-up of your HR policies, practices and procedures.  Having HR policies and practices that are […]

New DOL Overtime Rule

By Julie Vaccarelli, Esq. The U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) issued a final rule that will redefine which white-collar workers are exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (the “FLSA”). The new rule is effective January 1, 2020 and will increase the number of employees who are eligible for overtime pay. […]

Attorney Erica K. Williams, Named an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) Designee

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Susan Austin Carney Tel. 866/ 226-2224 Email: susan@naepc.org   Attorney Erica K. Williams, Named an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) Designee by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils on August 22, 2019   Cleveland, Ohio – Attorney Erica K. Williams is newly certified as an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) designee […]

5 WHP Attorneys Named in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020

Wickens Herzer Panza is pleased to announce that five attorneys have been named in The Best Lawyers in America© 2020. This recognition is earned through peer nominations and reviews and is intended to capture "the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues within the same geographical area and legal practice [...]

Department of Labor Issues Guidance on FMLA Leave Designation

by Matthew N. Danese, Esq.   Any employer subject to the Family Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”) should be aware of the opinion letter the U.S. Department of Labor issued on March 14, 2019 regarding designation of FMLA leave. The FMLA provides certain employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for certain […]

Solar Panels in Community Associations: Legislative Update

By Amanda A. Barreto, Esq. If your condominium or homeowners association does not already have a policy on solar panel installation and placement, it may be time to institute one—especially if House Bill 20 goes anywhere in Columbus. On February 12, 2019, House Bill 20 was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives seeking to […]

6 WHP Attorneys Recognized on 2019 Ohio Super Lawyers List; 3 Recognized as Rising Stars

We’re proud to announce the following attorneys have been named to the 2019 Ohio Super Lawyers List based on peer nominations that were submitted, reviewed and researched by Super Lawyers: Philip J. Truax, Real Estate & Construction (first time on the list!) Arthur E. Gibbs III, Estate Planning & Probate Richard A. Naegele, Employment & Labor […]

Hidden Opportunities Right Under Your Nose

by John A. Polinko, Esq. The distressed market has always presented fertile ground for business parties – investors, business owners, and start-ups – to explore opportunities that, though they may come with some uncertainty, offer “value” that potentially outweighs the issues present. Sometimes these opportunities come through as shut-downs, liquidations, reorganizations, or otherwise (at times, […]

Worker Classification- It’s Not a Worker or Employer Decision!

by William P. Prescott, Esq.   Worker Classification- It’s Not a Worker or Employer Decision! Worker classification remains a problem for businesses of all types, including professional practices.  Because the Internal Revenue Services (IRS), the Department of Labor (DOL) and the states believe that they are currently incurring a significant loss of revenue and where […]

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Our ‘Why’

by Morgan Nakon & Matthew W. Nakon, Esq. As many of you are now aware, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month WHP will hold several fundraising initiatives, with the proceeds benefiting Susan G. Komen, Northeast Ohio Chapter. This cause and Foundation are important to several members of our WHP family who have been impacted by breast […]

Balance: The Sandwich Generation Event Recap

Thursday, September 27th marked our Firm’s first quarterly Women’s Initiative event. The topic? Balance: The Sandwich Generation Covering what you need to know when you find yourself caring for your parents AND for your children, WHP attorneys Carmen Verhosek and Erica Williams led the discussion with some of our area’s top female leaders who happen […]

PRESS RELEASE: RETIRED ATTORNEY, THE HONORABLE JOSEPH E. CIRIGLIANO, RECEIVED THE OHIO STATE BAR ASSOCIATION’S HIGHEST HONOR: THE BAR MEDAL

AVON (August 24, 2018) – On Thursday, August 23, 2018, retired Wickens Herzer Panza attorney and former Judge Joseph E. Cirigliano was presented with the Ohio State Bar Association’s highest honor:  the Bar Medal. This medal is awarded to individuals who give their time and talent by way of leadership roles on the bench and […]

Five WHP Attorneys Recognized on 2018 Ohio Super Lawyers List; Two Recognized as Ohio Rising Stars

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. is pleased to announce 5 attorneys have been recognized on the 2018 Ohio Super Lawyers list and 2 have been named Ohio Rising Stars. Super Lawyers is an exclusive list, recognizing no more than five percent of attorneys in Ohio. Part of Thomson Reuters, Super Lawyers is a research-driven, […]

WHP Welcomes New Practice, Two New Attorneys

Carmen Verhosek to concentrate in rare Elder Law; Michael Nakon joins Litigation group Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista is pleased to announce Carmen Verhosek and Michael Nakon are newly appointed attorneys in its Avon office. Ms. Verhosek is a member of the Firm’s Probate & Estate Planning department, focusing her practice on estate planning, […]

Six WHP Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the 2018 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©

Best Lawyers® has released The Best Lawyers in America© list for 2018.  Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. is pleased to announce that six of its attorneys have been recognized for their expertise and selected for inclusion in the 2018 list. Richard Panza, Commercial Litigation Matthew Nakon, Commercial Litigation Arthur Gibbs, Trusts & Estates […]

Beginning September 18, 2017, Employers Must Exclusively Use The Revised I-9 Form

On September 18, 2017, employers must begin exclusively using the revised I-9 Form with the revision date of 07/17/17. Changes have been made to both the instructions for completing the form and the form itself.  Employers should make sure they are familiar with the new form and instruction changes prior to this September 18th deadline.  […]

Attorney Philip J. Truax to receive Ohio State Bar Foundation Award

WHP is pleased to announce that Attorney Philip J. Truax has been selected to receive the 2017 District 10 Community Service Award for Attorneys 40 and Under from the Ohio State Bar Foundation, a charitable arm of the Ohio State Bar Association. This award is presented to attorneys, 40 years of age or younger, who […]

Attorney Erica K. Williams has Joined the Probate & Estate Planning Department at WHP

WHP is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Erica K. Williams to its Avon, Ohio Office. Ms. Williams is Of Counsel with the Firm’s Probate & Estate Planning Department and focuses her practice on estate planning, and wealth transfer & preservation. She is experienced in all areas of estate planning, including income tax, estate tax, […]

A Message From Our Firm’s President

Timothy J. Pillari, Esq.          Thomas Pillari, Esq.   Dear Valued Clients and Friends, This is a bitter-sweet announcement for our Firm. It has been nearly 40 years since our Probate & Estate Planning (“PEP”) Department has been led by someone without the last name Pillari. Yet, that will be changing very soon. […]

WHP Adds a New Shareholder

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. today announced the promotion of Christopher W. Peer to Shareholder, effective January 1, 2017. “We welcome Chris Peer as a new shareholder and director of WHP. Chris is experienced in a variety of corporate areas, including mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcy, creditor’s and debtor’s rights and corporate finance. Recently, Chris […]

Four WHP Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the 2017 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©

WHP would like to congratulate Richard Panza, Richard Naegele, Matthew Nakon and Thomas Pillari who have been selected for inclusion in the 2017 edition of The Best Lawyers in America©.  Mr. Panza and Mr. Nakon have been selected for their expertise in Business Litigation, Mr. Naegele for his expertise in Employee Benefits/ERISA, and Mr. Pillari […]

WHP Adds Two New Shareholders

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. today announced the promotions of Benjamin M. Cooke, Esq. and Philip J. Truax, Esq. to Shareholder, effective January 1, 2016.  “The Shareholders of WHP are proud to welcome and congratulate Ben and Phil on this wonderful milestone.  They are shining examples of the professionalism demanded of WHP attorneys and are […]

Attorney Benjamin M. Cooke has joined the Business Organizations & Tax Department at WHP

WHP is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Benjamin M. Cooke to its Avon, Ohio Office. Mr. Cooke focuses his practice on corporate and business matters. He handles business organization and formation, business contract issues, mergers and acquisitions, real estate matters, banking and financing, employment issues, bankruptcy and records retention/e-discovery. He also represents a number of […]

Attorney Christopher A. Gray has joined the Litigation Department at WHP

WHP is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Christopher A. Gray to its Avon, Ohio Office. Attorney Christopher A. Gray has joined the Litigation Department at WHP.  Licensed to practice in Ohio and Kentucky, his practice includes Workers’ Compensation representation of self-insured, State Funded, group-rated, and public employers.  He handles all phases of defense representation in […]

Three WHP Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the 2016 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©

WHP would like to congratulate Richard Panza, Richard Naegele and Matthew Nakon who have been selected for inclusion in the 2016 edition of The Best Lawyers in America©.  Mr. Panza and Mr. Nakon have been selected for their expertise in Commercial Litigation and Mr. Naegele has been selected for his expertise in Employee Benefits/ERISA.

WHP attorneys selected as Super Lawyers

WHP congratulates the 2015 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, including its own Super Lawyers Matthew W. Nakon, Richard D. Panza, Richard A. Naegele, Thomas Pillari, and Ohio Rising Star Philip J. Truax. WHP Attorneys Matthew W. Nakon, Richard D. Panza, Richard A. Naegele and Thomas Pillari have been selected as 2015 Super Lawyers.  Attorney Philip […]

Attorney Christopher W. Peer has joined WHP

WHP is pleased to announce the addition of Attorney Christopher W. Peer to its Avon, Ohio Office. Mr. Peer is a member of the Business Organizations & Tax Department at WHP and advises clients on the legal implications of business and commercial decisions.  His experience extends beyond general corporate matters to include expertise in financing transactions, commercial […]

The law firm of Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista law firm has announced the addition of Christopher W. Peer

Attorney Christopher W. Peer has joined the Business Organizations & Tax Department at WHP and advises clients on the legal implications of business and commercial decisions.  His experience extends beyond general corporate matters to include expertise in financing transactions, commercial issues and ERISA.  Mr. Peer also represents parties with distressed debt concerns both in and out […]

Judge Joseph Cirigliano Spotlighted in Ohio Lawyer Magazine

WHP Attorney Judge Joseph E. Cirigliano was Spotlighted in the January-February 2015 OSBA Ohio Lawyer Magazine. Click the below link to view the online article and related video. https://www.ohiobar.org/NewsAndPublications/News/OSBANews/Pages/OSBA-member-spotlight-Joseph-Cirigliano-member-since-1952.aspx

WHP Adds Two New Shareholders

WHP is pleased to announce the promotions of Mr. Timothy J. Pillari and Ms. Rachelle Kuznicki Zidar to Shareholder. Mr. Pillari is a member of WHP’s Probate & Estate Planning Department. In addition to probate and estate administration services, he provides innovative business succession and estate planning counsel tailored to each client’s unique needs. Mr. […]

Matthew W. Nakon Achieves AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating with Martindale-Hubbell®

WHP congratulates Attorney Matthew W. Nakon for achieving the highest AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating with Martindale-Hubbell®.

WHP Attorneys Selected as 2015 Super Lawyers

WHP attorneys Richard D. Panza, Matthew W. Nakon, Richard A. Naegele and Thomas Pillari have been selected as 2015 Super Lawyers.  Attorney Philip J. Truax has been recognized as an Ohio Rising Star.

Two WHP Attorneys Selected for Inclusion in the 2015 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©

WHP would like to congratulate Richard Panza and Richard Naegele who have been selected, once again, to be included in the 2015 edition of The Best Lawyers in America©.  Mr. Panza has been selected for his expertise in Commercial Litigation and Mr. Naegele has been selected for his expertise in Employee Benefits/ERISA.

Ohio BWC’s “Another Billion Back” Proposed Rebate

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is proposing a rebate similar to last year’s – this time called “Another Billion Back”.  View the proposal summary, which is to be discussed at the BWC’s Board of Directors’ meeting on August 22, 2014. One of the eligibility criteria for the rebate is having active coverage. Therefore, it […]

Workers’ Compensation Sign-Up Deadlines Changing

BWC is changing the way it bills for workers’ compensation coverage to better serve Ohio employers. For decades, the agency has billed for employer premiums after-the-fact. It will begin billing in advance of coverage starting: July 1, 2015 for private employers Jan. 1, 2016 for public employers This change will align BWC with standard industry […]

Attorney Philip Truax is a Guest Blogger for the North Coast Building Industry Association

June 19, 2014 Blog – “Township’s Failure to Upgrade Sewer Capacity is Not Actionable” March 17, 2014 Blog – “Green Building & LEED Construction” February 24, 2014 Blog – “Ohio Consumer Sales Practice Act (CSPA)”

WHP Expands its Bankruptcy & Creditor Rights Practice

WHP is pleased to announce the expansion of its Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights practice to include Insolvency Litigation.  With over 55 years of collective experience, our bankruptcy and litigation professionals have an excellent track record of securing successful outcomes for our clients.  The addition of Insolvency Litigation to WHP’s established Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights practice […]

Follow us on Twitter @WHPCB

WHP is now on Twitter!  Follow us @WHPCB for legal and news information helpful to you and your business. 

Attorneys Panza and Naegele recognized as “Best Lawyers” in Cleveland for 2014

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. is pleased to announce that partners Richard D. Panza and Richard A. Naegele have been recognized by their peers as “Best Lawyers” in Cleveland for 2014.  Mr. Panza was recognized for his work in Commercial Litigation and Mr. Naegele for Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law.

WHP and FirstMerit Bank co-sponsoring 2014 LCCC Foundation Golf Benefit

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista and FirstMerit Bank are teaming up to co-sponsor the 2014 Lorain County Community College Foundation’s Jack Nicklaus Scholarship Golf Benefit on August 18, 2014, at the Elyria Country Club.

2014 Workers’ Compensation Deadlines

Reproduced with permission from Doug Maag of Alternative Risk LTD. Group Rating The deadline for guaranteed enrollment is February 14. Enrollment forms received after this date could result in ineligibility for the program. If you have not returned your completed group rating forms, we ask that you email a copy to KFraatz@WickensLaw.com and mail your originals to […]

The law firm of Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista law firm has announced the addition of Philip J. Truax

Mr. Truax is a member of the Litigation and Real Estate Departments, and focuses primarily on a variety of construction and real estate matters, commercial and environmental litigation, and product liability. In addition to his extensive experience in complex business and tort litigation, Mr. Truax works with contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers to preserve, pursue, […]

Congratulations to our AV Preeminent Lawyers

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation board approves $1 billion rebate to employers

Crain’s Cleveland 2:33 pm, May 30, 2013 As expected, the board of the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation unanimously has approved plans presented by Gov. John Kasich to distribute $1 billion in cash rebates to 210,000 Ohio employers. In a separate action, the board signed off on a 2.1% average reduction in base rates for […]

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. (WHP) successful in obtaining reinstatement for Cedar Fair Executive as Chief Operating Officer

Richard D. Panza and William F. Kolis, Jr., two of Ohio’s premier legal practitioners, have successfully obtained reinstatement for their client, Jacob “Jack” Falfas, to his position as Chief Operating Officer for Cedar Fair Entertainment Company. Cedar Fair (NYSE: FUN) is a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio, and one of the largest regional […]

Important Announcement Today For All Employers Workers’ Compensation State Fund

A Billion Back A Three part plan for making workers’ comp work for Ohio. — Click here for article.

WHP Adds New Associate

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista law firm has announced the addition of Brian W. Bonham. Mr. Bonham has joined the Business Organizations & Tax Department at WHP, where his focus is on Business and Corporate Law, Real Estate Law and Education Law.  Mr. Bonham received his bachelor’s degree and a master of public administration […]

WHP Named Amy DeLuca Firm Shareholder and Director

Wickens, Herzer, Panza, Cook & Batista Co. announced that Amy DeLuca has recently been elected shareholder and director of the firm, effective January 1. Ms. DeLuca earned her law degree from Cleveland-Marshall Law School and joined the firm in 2008. She is a member of the firm’s litigation department, specializing in Labor and Employment law […]