Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Columbus Estate Planning & Workers' Compensation Attorney
Philip Gauer Law has been dedicated to providing personalized legal representation in Columbus, Ohio, since 2001. With over 25 years of experience, the firm specializes in estate planning, probate, workers' compensation, and social security disability law, prioritizing integrity and client-centered service. As a certified specialist in workers' compensation law by the Ohio State Bar Association, the firm combines deep legal expertise with a hands-on approach to guide clients through complex legal matters.The practice emphasizes thorough preparation, clear communication, and advocacy rooted in justice and fairness, serving clients across Columbus and surrounding communities. By maintaining membership in professional organizations like the Ohio State Bar Association and NOSSCR, the firm stays at the forefront of legal developments to better serve its clients.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate
Workers' Compensation
Social Security Disability
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- Over 25 years of experience in estate planning and workers' compensation law
- Certified specialist in Workers' Compensation law by the Ohio State Bar Association
- Contingency fee basis for workers' compensation and SSD cases
- Personal, hands-on approach to client representation
- Active member of the Ohio State Bar Association and NOSSCR
Associations and certifications
- Ohio State Bar Association
What people say
Best around
Prompt responses
Most thorough
True pleasure working
Dedicated attorney
Services
Estate Planning
Estate planning services include drafting wills, trusts, and advance directives to ensure asset distribution aligns with client wishes. The firm helps clients avoid probate through revocable living trusts while addressing tax implications and family needs. With over 25 years of experience, Philip Gauer provides tailored solutions to protect clients' legacies and loved ones.
Probate
Probate services assist executors in settling estates, including asset inventory, debt resolution, and distribution per will or Ohio law. The firm guides personal representatives through court processes, resolves disputes, and ensures compliance with legal requirements. Expertise spans simple and complex probate cases across central Ohio.
Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation representation covers claim filing, appeals, and dispute resolution for workplace injuries. The firm advocates for medical treatment coverage and wage replacement benefits, leveraging certification as an Ohio State Bar Association specialist. Services include hearings at the Industrial Commission and court litigation.
Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability services include initial claims and appeals for denied benefits, with a focus on medical evidence and legal arguments. The firm represents clients at hearings before administrative law judges, ensuring compliance with SSA requirements and maximizing eligibility for SSDI or SSI benefits.
People
Philip J. Gauer
Attorney at Law
Philip Gauer is a certified workers' compensation specialist with over 25 years of experience in estate planning, probate, and social security disability law. He founded his solo practice in 2001 after serving as an Assistant Attorney General and in private practice since 1995.
Questions
What happens if I die without a will in Ohio?
Assets are distributed under Ohio intestacy laws, typically equally among next of kin, which may not reflect your wishes.
Can I avoid probate in Ohio?
Yes, through revocable trusts, joint ownership, or beneficiary designations on accounts and insurance policies.
Do I need a trust if I have a will?
A trust can avoid probate and provide privacy, but a will is still needed to address any assets not placed in the trust.
Can I collect workers' comp benefits if partially at fault?
Yes, Ohio's no-fault system allows benefits regardless of fault for work-related injuries.
What SSD benefits are available in Ohio?
Monthly cash payments, Medicare coverage, and auxiliary benefits for qualifying family members.
How long does SSD approval take?
Several months or longer, especially if appeals are required after initial denials.
