Business Details
28 Years
experience
Columbus Legal Team for Divorce & Bankruptcy
Bergman & Yiangou was founded in 1998 by Robert D. Bergman and Andrew Yiangou, combining decades of legal experience to serve Columbus residents. Our practice focuses on family law, bankruptcy, social security disability, probate, and criminal defense, prioritizing ordinary citizens over corporate interests. With three attorneys and over 90 years of combined experience, we maintain an A+ BBB rating and offer free initial consultations. Our team of paralegals ensures attentive support, guiding clients through complex legal processes efficiently. We serve central Ohio, including Franklin, Fairfield, and Delaware Counties, with two office locations.Our philosophy centers on accessibility, affordability, and personalized representation for every client. We adhere to strict ethical standards while advocating for fair outcomes in divorce, custody disputes, and financial hardship cases. Our track record includes successful social security disability claims and criminal defense resolutions. Client satisfaction remains our priority, reflected in testimonials praising our professionalism and results-driven approach. We provide transparent communication and practical solutions tailored to individual circumstances.
Services
Divorce
Bankruptcy
Social Security Disability
Probate
Criminal Defense
Child Custody
Chapter 7
Chapter 13
Estate Planning
DUI Defense
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have 90+ years of combined legal experience in Columbus courts
- Maintain A+ BBB rating for ethical business practices
- Offer free initial consultations for all case types
- Serve 6+ counties across central Ohio regionally
- Provide personalized attention with affordable fee structures
Associations and certifications
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
What people say
Knowledgeable and capable lawyer
Professional and courteous staff
Reasonable fees
Complex situations resolved
Won my case
Services
Divorce
Our attorneys handle contested divorces, dissolutions, and spousal support cases in Columbus. We prioritize amicable resolutions but prepare for trial when necessary. With decades of experience, we protect client interests in property division and custody matters while maintaining compassionate representation throughout the process.
Bankruptcy
We guide clients through Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy filings to stop foreclosures and wage garnishments. Our team explains eligibility requirements and helps choose appropriate debt relief options while ensuring compliance with Ohio bankruptcy laws and federal regulations for financial fresh starts.
Social Security Disability
Our specialists handle Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. We manage appeals and reconsideration processes, reviewing medical documentation to build strong cases for clients unable to work due to severe health conditions.
Probate
We assist with will execution, trust administration, and asset distribution according to Ohio probate laws. Our services ensure smooth transfer of estates while minimizing family conflicts and addressing complex inheritance issues with professional legal guidance.
Criminal Defense
Our defense attorneys represent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges including DUI/OVI offenses. We protect constitutional rights during investigations and court proceedings while developing strategic defenses tailored to each case's specific circumstances and evidence.
People
Robert D. Bergman
Attorney
With 50+ years of legal experience, Robert D. Bergman focuses on family law and bankruptcy. A graduate of Ohio State University (1966), he co-founded Bergman & Yiangou in 1998 to provide accessible legal representation for central Ohio residents.
Andrew Yiangou
Attorney
Andrew Yiangou specializes in social security disability and criminal defense. Holding degrees from Wittenberg University and Moritz College of Law, he brings extensive trial experience to complex cases requiring specialized legal expertise.
Andrew J. Niese
Attorney
Andrew Niese handles divorce and criminal defense cases. A cum laude graduate of Ohio State University (2003), he provides strategic legal solutions while maintaining personal attention to each client's unique circumstances.
Questions
What's the difference between divorce and dissolution?
Divorce requires proving fault or irreconcilable differences, while dissolution allows mutual agreement on all terms without assigning blame.
How does child custody get determined in Ohio?
Courts consider the child's best interests, parental capabilities, relationship with each parent, and living arrangements when establishing custody arrangements.
What bankruptcy options exist for Ohio residents?
Chapter 7 eliminates unsecured debts through asset liquidation, while Chapter 13 creates repayment plans to retain property and stop collection actions.
How can I qualify for Social Security Disability?
You must prove inability to work due to medical conditions lasting 12+ months, supported by comprehensive medical documentation and professional legal advocacy.
What happens during the probate process?
The court validates wills, appoints executors, identifies heirs, and oversees asset distribution according to Ohio probate laws and documented wishes.
Do I need a lawyer for criminal charges?
Legal representation protects your rights during investigations, plea negotiations, and trials, ensuring proper defense strategies for misdemeanor or felony charges.
