About Michael H. Peterson, L.P.A. — Personal Injury Cleveland Ohio
Michael H. Peterson, L.P.A. is a personal injury Cleveland firm representing accident victims across Cuyahoga County and the surrounding Northeast Ohio region. The practice handles auto collisions, slip and falls, premises liability, dog bites, and wrongful death claims, with a focus on direct attorney access from intake through settlement. Cuyahoga County injury suits typically file in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas at the Justice Center on Ontario Street. Because the firm has tried cases in this courthouse for years, clients benefit from familiarity with local judges and defense counsel.
The practice operates on a contingency basis, meaning fees come only from any settlement or verdict the firm secures. Specifically, the office advances costs for medical records, expert reports, and court fees so injured clients are not out of pocket. For more options, accident victims can also review the personal injury attorney directory. In addition, the firm coordinates with treating physicians on liens, which helps clients receive care without immediate payment pressure.
What Clients Say
Clients describe a methodical, communication-focused style. Specifically, they note regular case status updates without having to chase the office. In addition, several mention feeling supported through long medical recoveries while their case worked through the discovery and negotiation phases.
Personal Injury Cleveland — Practice Areas & Services
- Auto and truck accident claims under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2315
- Slip and fall and premises liability matters in Cuyahoga County
- Dog bite claims under Ohio’s strict liability statute
- Wrongful death actions on behalf of surviving family members
- Construction and workplace injury claims, including third-party suits
- Insurance bad faith disputes and uninsured motorist coverage claims
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury Cleveland claim?
Ohio’s general statute of limitations for personal injury is two years from the date of the accident under Ohio Revised Code 2305.10. Wrongful death claims have a two-year window from the date of death. Specifically, missing this deadline almost always ends the claim, so prompt consultation matters.
How does a contingency fee work in Ohio?
Most Cleveland personal injury firms work on contingency, taking a percentage — typically 33% before suit and 40% after — of the recovery, plus reimbursed costs. Clients owe nothing if no settlement or verdict is obtained. The exact percentage and cost handling are spelled out in a written fee agreement at intake.
Where are personal injury cases filed in Cuyahoga County?
Personal injury suits over $15,000 file at the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas at 1200 Ontario Street in Cleveland. Smaller claims route through the Cleveland Municipal Court. Most serious injury cases land in Common Pleas because medical bills and lost wages quickly exceed the municipal limit.
Quick Facts: Personal Injury in Cleveland, Ohio
- Ohio traffic crashes: Approximately 268,000 reportable crashes statewide in 2023 — Ohio State Highway Patrol 2023 Annual Report
- Cuyahoga County population: Approximately 1.24 million residents — U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 estimates
- Ohio injury statute of limitations: Two years from the date of injury — Ohio Revised Code §2305.10


