Attorneys Lewallen and Mellino Published in CATA News for Spring 2020 June 17, 2020.

Sharing Our Trial Experience with the Legal Community

For almost 40 years, our attorneys at The Mellino Law Firm have been dedicated to representing injury victims, protecting the rights of our clients, and sharing our knowledge with the legal field at large. Continuing in that tradition, our partner Meghan Lewallen and attorney Calder Mellino recently offered their legal insights in a co-authored article for the Spring 2020 edition of Cleveland Academy of Trial Attorneys (CATA) News!

Titled "Nuts & Bolts Of Ohio Civil Rule 30(B)(5): Deposition Of A Corporation," the article takes an in-depth look at the process for depositions of a corporation in Ohio – and lists out the core duties and responsibilities required of all the parties involved. Explaining that Ohio Civil Rule 30(B)(5) is an adoption of federal procedure, the piece also breaks down the major differences between this rule and Ohio Civil Rule 30(B)(1), which governs a witness’s deposition as an individual.

The article also discusses some of the most common issues that can arise with deposing a corporation, such as:

• Dealing with improper objections when your Rule 30(B)(5) notice is first received by the corporation
• Navigating limited knowledge and preparation among witnesses in the corporation
• Establishing that a designated witness is not adequately prepared to testify
• Combating claims of attorney-client privilege made by the defending party
• Seeking testimony from former employees who have relevant knowledge of the specified topics

As the article notes, it can be difficult for plaintiff’s attorneys to obtain testimony from corporations that have become increasingly compartmentalized over the years. By providing a comprehensive overview of Rule 30(B)(5), Attorneys Lewallen and Mellino have offered other trial attorneys their own deposition "best practices" after working with corporations large and small throughout Ohio.

Advocating for Better Safety Standards Across Ohio

At The Mellino Law Firm, we believe that our Cleveland trial attorneys can play an important role not only in the lives of their own clients, but in the legal system as a whole. By rooting out the truth in complex civil cases and holding corporations accountable for negligent behavior, we hope to set precedents that will benefit future generations too. If you’ve been the victim of a catastrophic accident, medical mistake, or another instance of negligence, our legal team is ready to provide the innovative and skilled representation you deserve.

Contact us today at (440) 333-3800 for more information or to schedule a free consultation!