Since 1994, Cowan & Hilgeman has recovered millions of dollars in compensation for accident victims and their loved ones
Ohio
Personal
Injury
Attorney
Attorney
Jack R. Hilgeman
Recent
Case Results
$625K
Truck Accident – Back Injury Case
$245K
Car Accident – Spine Fracture Case
$225K
Car Accident – Neck Compression Fracture Case
$575K
Truck Accident – Neck Injury Case
Injured? We can help you in 3 easy steps.
Get Your Free Case Evaluation
Get started with a free consultation to discuss your case. We take the time to listen, answer your questions, and explain your options—no fees, no pressure, just straightforward guidance.
We Fight For You
Our attorneys are relentless in pursuing justice. From negotiating settlements to taking cases to trial, we fight for maximum compensation while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Collect Your Compensation
Once we secure your settlement or verdict, we ensure you receive your compensation as quickly as possible. Your victory is our top priority, and we’re here to help you move forward.
About Cowan & Hilgeman
You’re more than just a case number to us. At Cowan & Hilgeman, we believe that every client deserves personal attention and aggressive representation. Our personal injury lawyers take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and build a strong case tailored to your needs.
We have recovered millions for injury victims. Whether negotiating settlements or taking cases to trial, we are prepared to go the distance to secure the compensation you deserve. With no upfront fees and a results-driven approach, we’re here to make the legal process as stress-free as possible.
Read Our
Reviews
See what former personal injury clients are saying about their experience with our firm. Their stories highlight our dedication, results, and commitment to personal service.
About Jack R. Hilgeman, ESQ.
Jack R. Hilgeman has been recognized by national publications as a leader in Ohio personal injury law. He consistently receives awards for outstanding client satisfaction due to his personal approach and commitment to fair results.
Jack is a fourth-generation lawyer, following in the footsteps of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He takes all cases on a contingency fee, meaning that our clients only pay a fee if we successfully recover compensation in their case.
Our
Practice Areas
At Cowan & Hilgeman, we’re dedicated to fighting for those injured due to negligence. Our Ohio attorneys handle a wide range of personal injury cases, from auto accidents and slip-and-falls to catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims. No matter your circumstances, we’re here to provide dependable legal advice and relentless advocacy.
Personal Injury
We represent individuals who have suffered injuries due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others, from slip-and-falls to severe accidents. Our attorneys work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering while providing compassionate guidance throughout the legal process.
Car Accidents
We help victims of auto collisions recover damages from reckless, distracted, or impaired drivers who have caused serious harm. Our team thoroughly investigates each crash, works with accident reconstruction specialists, and fights insurance companies to obtain the full compensation our clients need for recovery.
Brain Injury
We advocate for survivors of traumatic brain injuries and their families, understanding the life-altering impact these injuries can have. Our attorneys work closely with medical experts to document the full extent of cognitive impairment and secure resources for long-term care and rehabilitation.
Catastrophic Injury
We represent victims who have sustained severe, life-changing injuries resulting in permanent disability or disfigurement. Our team pursues maximum compensation to cover extensive medical treatment, ongoing care needs, and the profound impact on quality of life.
Dog Bites
We assist adults and children who have suffered physical and emotional trauma from dog attacks, helping them recover damages from negligent owners. Our attorneys understand the lasting psychological impact of these incidents and work to hold owners accountable while securing funds for medical care and counseling.
Motorcycle Accidents
We fight for injured motorcyclists who often face severe injuries and unfair bias from insurance companies after accidents. Our team reconstructs accident scenes, counters prejudice against riders, and pursues full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and bike replacement.
Medical Malpractice
We advocate for patients harmed by healthcare providers who failed to meet accepted standards of medical care. Our attorneys collaborate with medical experts to build strong cases demonstrating negligence while seeking compensation for additional treatment costs and damages.
Nursing Home Negligence
We protect vulnerable seniors who have suffered abuse, neglect, or substandard care in nursing facilities. Our team investigates signs of mistreatment, documents violations of care standards, and holds facilities accountable while pursuing compensation for injuries and transferred medical costs.
Premises Liability
We represent individuals injured due to dangerous property conditions that property owners knew about or should have addressed. Our attorneys document hazardous conditions, establish owner negligence, and pursue compensation for injuries that could have been prevented with proper maintenance and warning.
Product Liability
We help consumers who have been injured by defective or dangerous products, from household items to medical devices. Our team works to establish manufacturer liability, document design or manufacturing flaws, and secure compensation for injuries caused by unsafe products.
Truck Accidents
We represent victims of commercial truck crashes, understanding the devastating injuries that often result from these collisions. Our attorneys quickly preserve evidence, analyze driver logs and maintenance records, and pursue claims against trucking companies and their insurers for maximum compensation.
Wrongful Death
We support families who have lost loved ones due to another party’s negligent or wrongful actions. Our compassionate team helps survivors obtain compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the profound emotional impact while holding responsible parties accountable.
Attorney Profiles
Jack R. Hilgeman, ESQ.
Attorney
A fourth-generation attorney, Jack R. Hilgeman, Esq. has secured over $25 million for clients in personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, and product liability cases. He has been recognized by The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 and is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Jack earned his J.D. from the University of Dayton in 2010.
John P. Hilgeman, ESQ.
Attorney
John P. Hilgeman, Esq. co-founded Cowan & Hilgeman in 1994 and has decades of experience advocating for clients. His practice focuses on civil litigation, business law, estate planning, probate, and family law. An active member of the Ohio legal community and committed to client success, he provides strategic legal counsel for every case. John earned his J.D. from the University of Dayton in 1982.
Michael M. Mahon, ESQ.
Attorney
Focusing solely on catastrophic injury cases, Michael M. Mahon, Esq. is a skilled trial attorney with over 12 years of experience handling complex litigation. He’s successfully tried more than 15 cases to verdict, securing favorable outcomes for his clients. He’s dedicated to providing strong advocacy for people who need it most. Michael earned his J.D. from Northern Kentucky University in 2005.
Cowan & Hilgeman
Answering your Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?
Ohio’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this period may prevent you from recovering compensation.
This two-year window applies to most accidents and injuries, including car accidents, medical malpractice, and slip-and-fall incidents. Starting the process early ensures that your evidence is fresh, witnesses are available, and your case moves through the legal system within the appropriate time frame. Our experienced Ohio personal injury attorneys can help you make sure your claim is filed on time and that all necessary documents are in order.
What should I do after a car accident?
After a car accident, check for injuries and call 911. If you can, gather evidence, take photos, and exchange information with the other driver. Seek medical attention—even if you feel fine—and contact your lawyer to discuss your legal options.
It’s important to document everything from the scene of the accident. Photos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can strengthen your case.
Even if you think your injuries are minor, some symptoms may appear later. Having medical records and accident reports on file can help support your claim. Our experienced firm can guide you through the process of filing a claim and fighting for fair compensation.
Who can be held liable for a defective product?
Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers may all be held responsible for injuries caused by a defective product. Liability depends on the specific defect and how the product was used.
For example, if a manufacturer produces a faulty appliance that causes burns, the manufacturer could be held liable. Similarly, if a retailer sells a product without proper warnings or instructions, they could also share responsibility.
In cases of defective products, proving the defect and establishing the chain of responsibility can be complicated. Our skilled product liability lawyer can help gather evidence, identify the liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
What is considered medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, causing injury to a patient.
Examples include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, and birth injuries.
In a misdiagnosis case, for example, a doctor may fail to identify a disease early enough, causing the condition to worsen. Surgical errors can involve mistakes made during an operation, like leaving a surgical instrument inside the patient.
Medical malpractice cases require proving that the healthcare provider did not meet the standard of care. Our seasoned personal injury team can help evaluate the circumstances of your case and get connected with the right experts to prove your claim.
What are signs of nursing home abuse or neglect?
Common signs include unexplained injuries, bedsores, malnutrition, sudden behavioral changes, and poor hygiene. If you suspect neglect or abuse, document your concerns and speak with an attorney.
If you notice sudden weight loss, frequent hospitalizations, or injuries that don’t make sense, those could be indicators of neglect or abuse. Bedsores are a clear sign that a resident may not be receiving adequate care or attention.
Taking action quickly can prevent further harm and help protect your loved one from continued abuse. Our Ohio personal injury lawyer can help you investigate the situation and hold nursing homes accountable for any negligence or abuse.
What is considered a catastrophic injury?
A catastrophic injury is one that causes permanent and severe damage, often leading to lifelong disabilities. These injuries include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, and amputations.
Catastrophic injuries can drastically change your life, requiring ongoing medical care and possibly preventing you from returning to work or leading an independent life. For example, a spinal cord injury might result in paralysis, requiring long-term care and specialized equipment.
These injuries can also lead to significant emotional and financial burdens. We have an attorney who specifically focuses his practice on catastrophic injury cases—call today for a free consultation.
What do I do if I’m in a truck or motorcycle accident?
If you are involved in a truck or motorcycle accident, seek medical attention immediately and contact the police. Be sure to document the accident scene, including taking pictures of the vehicles and any visible injuries.
Truck and motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size and speed of the vehicles involved. In truck accidents, the driver, trucking company, or even the manufacturer of the truck part may be liable. Motorcycle accidents, due to the vulnerability of riders, often result in severe injuries such as broken bones, road rash, or brain injuries.
Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for auto accident clients, and we can help investigate the cause of your accident and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What if I was partially responsible for my slip and fall?
Yes, you can still file a claim if you were partially responsible for your slip and fall, but the compensation you receive may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
In Ohio, the law follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your responsibility. For example, if you were found 20% at fault for the fall, you would receive 80% of the total damages.
Our Ohio personal injury lawyers can help evaluate the circumstances, gather evidence, and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation even if you share some responsibility for the accident.
Can I sue for a dog bite injury?
Yes, if you were bitten by a dog, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner, especially if they were negligent in preventing the attack.
In Ohio, dog owners are generally liable for injuries caused by their dogs if the dog had a history of aggression or the owner failed to control the dog properly.
For instance, if a dog owner allowed their pet to run free in a public area, leading to an attack, the owner could be held responsible. Our dog bite attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for compensation for your medical expenses, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.
What is a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim is filed when a person dies due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another. This could involve accidents, medical malpractice, or even criminal behavior.
For example, if a driver causes a fatal car crash due to speeding or drunk driving, the family of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit. Wrongful death claims aim to provide compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional suffering caused by the death.
Our compassionate and award-winning team of Ohio lawyers can help you navigate the process and fight for justice on behalf of your loved one.
Read Our
Recent Blog Posts
Explore our recent blog posts to stay informed on important legal topics and insights. Our articles cover a range of personal injury issues, general tips, and important law updates. If you’re seeking legal advice on a specific matter, please get in contact with our firm.
Why Truck Accident Claims Are Different From Car Accidents
Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Motorcycle Accident
