Mr. Ralph Alan Kerns, Attorney

Ralph A. Kerns has practiced law in Franklin County and throughout the State of Ohio for over 28 years.  His practice is devoted to helping individuals and families who are in transition.  

Clients find his office and staff to be warm, compassionate, understanding, nonjudgemental and responsive.  Mr. Kerns understands that financial and domestic challenges can leave one feeling overwhelmed, confused and unsure about the future.  He enjoys working with people and families to remove the stress and worries associated with these problems and to find a resolution which helps them to get back on their feet and move forward with their lives. 

The firm focuses on divorce / dissolution and all areas related to family law such as child custody and visitation (known in Ohio as parenting time) child support, spousal support, post-decree modifications, prenuptial agreements (ante-nuptial agreements) and protective orders.  Mr. Kerns welcomes clients who are interested in a collaborative process, as well as those who have substantive disagreements. Divorces can become very complex and include such issues as business and professional practice ownership and valuation,  retirement and investment accounts (QDROs and DOPOs), property distribution as well as the tax implications and providing for the future needs of children (trusts). 

Mr. Kerns also serves those who are in financial distress.  These problems often arise out of foreclosure, credit card debt, overwhelming medical bills, loss of a job (lay-off), a reduction in pay, death of a spouse, garnishment or other unexpected events.  There are always options.  Mr. Kerns will review your specific circumstances and will help determine the best possible solution.  This can include filing bankruptcy, such as Chapter 7 (liquidation) or Chapter 13 (repayment plan).  It is possible to keep most of your personal possessions and even some assets such as your car or home. 

Mr. Kerns has provided legal services to thousands of clients and comes with the highest rating (AV) from Martindale Hubble.  He often receives referrals  from other attorneys when they do not posses the knowledge and or experience to handle the more complicated legal matters.  

Mr. Kerns has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education classes over the years including those not only related to Family Law and Bankruptcy but also the interplay of criminal and business involvement in each of these areas. 

Mr. Kerns has also completed over 40 hours of training in mediation and 20 hours of collaborative law training so that he is not only trained but experienced in the best methods to handle your case either through litigation or negotiation.

When he is not practicing law, you will find him enjoying time with his wife and children attending their piano recitals and sporting events.  You might see him playing trumpet in the New Albany Community Band or working in Worthington area service projects. 

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• Attorney of the Year

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