Ohio just changed its contract law. Senate Bill 157 cut the statute of limitations for written contracts from six years to four — and oral contracts from four to two. A licensed Ohio attorney drafts agreements that comply with the new rules and enforces them in Franklin County.
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Ohio's contract landscape shifted in 2026. Senate Bill 157 shortened the limitations period for written and oral contracts, meaning businesses now have less time to pursue claims. A licensed Ohio attorney ensures your contracts comply with the new rules. If a dispute escalates, our Franklin County commercial litigation service handles enforcement. And if your contracts involve IP licensing or trade secrets, our Ohio IP protection service covers the underlying framework.
Here's what a licensed Ohio attorney handles for Columbus businesses:
Ohio SB 157 reduced written contract limitations from six years to four — see Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2305. Your attorney drafts agreements that reflect the current legal landscape.
Ohio's commercial docket in Franklin County handles complex business disputes. But avoiding litigation starts with a careful review of vendor agreements, licensing terms, and NDAs before you sign.
Ohio now gives you four years for written contracts and two for oral ones. Parties can still agree to shorter periods. Your attorney negotiates limitations clauses that align with Ohio's revised deadlines.
Columbus commercial disputes above $15,000 go to the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, which operates a specialized commercial docket. Your attorney will know whether your case qualifies.
Whether you're owed money or accused of breach, your attorney will assess the claim under Ohio's revised statute, calculate damages, and pursue resolution through negotiation or Franklin County litigation.
Ohio's UCC governs sales of goods, warranties, and commercial paper. See Ohio Revised Code Chapter 1302 for the statutory text on sales.
Not sure if your contract needs an attorney review?
Get a Free Answer →Ohio Senate Bill 157 significantly reduced contract limitations periods. If you're operating under the old rules, you may be missing deadlines.
Ohio Revised Code § 2305.06 previously gave six years to sue on a written contract. SB 157, passed May 20, 2026, reduced this to four years. Contracts signed before the effective date may still fall under the old six-year rule.
Ohio Revised Code § 2305.07 reduced the limitations period for oral contracts from four years to two. This means verbal agreements — often used in small business dealings — now have a much shorter window for enforcement.
Ohio law allows parties to agree to a limitations period shorter than the statutory default. If your contract says "any claim must be brought within one year," that clause may be enforceable — even though the new default is four years.
Common questions from Columbus businesses about contracts and agreements.
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More ways a licensed Ohio attorney can support your Columbus business.
Entity selection, Articles of Organization, and Operating Agreements under Ohio law.
Employee handbooks, non-competes, and Ohio workplace compliance.
Franklin County commercial disputes, breach of contract, and partnership conflicts.
Trademarks, copyrights, and trade secret protection for Ohio businesses.
Deal structuring, due diligence, and Ohio merger moratorium compliance.
This same service is available in other cities.