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Joseph Bradford Jaap

Estate planning Attorney at Cincinnati, OH

4.8   43 reviews

also known as Joseph B. Jaap

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 34 years
    State OH
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Joseph

Learn Joseph’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Estate planning
    25%
    Joe helps families evaluate their goals to prepare wills, powers of attorney, deeds, and other documents to plan for the orderly transfer of their real estate, personal property, and other assets, to provide for their family members.

  2. Divorce and separation
    20%
    Joe counsels those facing termination of marriage by divorce or dissolution, or pursuing a legal separation, and also child custody, spousal support, and related issues.

  3. Real estate
    20%
    Joe's real estate practice includes both commercial and residential real estate, construction, and mechanic's liens, representing and counseling clients regarding purchases, sales, leasing, condominium development and conversions, condominium management and homeowner associations, construction contracting, and construction dispute resolution with mediation, arbitration, or litigation.

  4. Contracts and agreements
    15%
    Joe helps entrepreneurs and businesses owners, advising them about business formation, incorporation, LLCs, contract negotiations, asset purchases and sales, protecting their business with trademark and copyright selection, registration, and licensing, and resolution of contract disputes.

  5. Probate
    15%
    Joe helps families and executors sort through the probate process for the transfer of real estate, vehicles, and personal property, as well as establishing guardianship for family members in need of care.

  6. Trademark application
    5%
    Joe helps entrepreneurs and businesses owners, advising them about protecting their business with trademark and copyright selection, registration, and licensing, and resolution of trademark20disputes.

HELPING INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, ENTREPRENEURS, AND BUSINESS OWNERS SOLVE PROBLEMS FOR 30 YEARS.

Practicing law for over 30 years, Joseph Jaap assists clients with a wide range of legal issues, whether personal matters, estate planning, family law, real estate, or business, to develop and implement legal strategies that achieve client goals and that avoid or resolve disputes. 

 

Joe advises clients about their family legal matters and estate planning, including wills, powers of attorney, trusts, probate, divorce, child custody and support, guardianship, and other family issues.

 

His real estate practice includes both commercial and residential real estate, representing and counseling clients regarding purchases, sales, leasing, condominium development and conversions, condominium management, homeowner and condominium associations, construction contracting and construction project management, construction dispute resolution, and mechanic's liens.

 

Joe also provides general business representation to entrepreneurs and businesses advising clients about business formation, incorporation and joint ventures, contract negotiations, and asset purchases and sales.

 

He also helps clients resolve issues related to trademarks, copyrights, and other intellectual property, including clearance and registration of state and federal trademarks, copyright registrations, trademark and copyright infringement claim resolution, intellectual property asset transfers and licensing, trade secret protection, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, and electronic commerce including Internet and domain name issues.

 

A Cincinnati native, after graduating from Purdue with B.S. and M.S. degrees in engineering, Joe served on active duty as a Navy officer and nuclear power plant engineer on Navy nuclear-powered ships. His Navy service was aboard a submarine, cruiser, and aircraft carrier, and he remains active with other local Navy veterans, serving on the executive board of the Cincinnati Council of the Navy League. After leaving the Navy, Joe worked for several years as an engineer and was licensed as a professional engineer in Ohio before obtaining his law degree from the University of Michigan. Joe is married, with three children.

Awards

Top Contributor 2023,2022,2021,2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015
Top Contributor
2023 2022 2021 + 6 ...
Client's Choice 2018,2017,2016,2015,2013
Client's Choice
2018 2017 2016 + 2 ...

Contact Joseph

Barron Peck Bennie & Schlemmer Co LPA

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  43 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2018
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Joel D. O'Connor | April 20, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Knowledgeable & Reliable
Joseph was straight forward and experienced - his knowledge was helpful and constructive when it came to our HOA questions/concerns. Would highly recommend him to anyone looking into Real Estate Law
Posted by anonymous | April 8, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Awesome
One of the most intelligent lawyers, who considers a holistic view. Calm approach to complex issues and just Awesome!!! Thank You.
Posted by Lisa | January 9, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Compassionate, knowledgeable assistance
I contacted Mr. Japp via email with a general explanation of what type of legal help I needed, and he responded right away, stating that he would need more details about the issue at hand in order to help. His email explained the process and the cost of his services in an easy-to-understand manner. When I called to hire him, he listened to and assessed the situation. When he realized that a contract had already been signed, he explained that there wouldn't be much he could do at that point if I hired him. However, Mr. Japp did not want to just move on without helping me out as much as he could. He described the possible outcomes, and gave me some actions I could take to protect my interests. Mr. Jaap so compassionate, attentive, and thorough that I felt like I was a paying client! His words of wisdom helped me to proceed with my legal matter with more confidence and insight. I highly recommend Joe Jaap to others who need legal assistance.
Read less
Posted by Kohl | February 16, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Contractor issues
Joseph returned my call promptly after i left him a voicemail. What can i say? I was stressed as can be when my contractors attempted to price gouge me at the end of the project and had 0 interest of any type of negotiation. I was worried about them trying to place a mechanics lien, but Joseph walked me through the steps in case this were to happen. After the phone call, i was able to sleep like a baby because I have full confidence with Joseph on my team.
Read less
Posted by Jason | April 10, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Advise
Thank you, so much! I truly appreciate the time you took to answer my questions!
Posted by joshua | February 5, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
paying a jugement
very helpful saved me some money which is always great, honest and met all expectations
Posted by Zack | December 15, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very professional
Very professional and offered advice very quickly. Thank you for answering my question. It is greatly appreciated!
Posted by anonymous | July 12, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Lake wall repair
Mr Jaap replied very quickly, gave me the advice I was looking for and answered a follow up question too. It helped put my mind at ease that I have options. Although, hopefully, I won't need to use an attorney's services/sue..
Posted by Emily | June 16, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very informative
I reached out to Joe after I received a very troubling email. He took the time to thoroughly explain what could potentially happen and what my rights are. He was never pushy and answered every question that I had without hesitation. I will definitely hire him if it comes to needing representation.
Posted by Matthew | November 21, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Incredibly helpful!
I was calling around looking for an estimate to have a last will and testament drafted. Joseph told me that in a situation such as mine (unmarried with zero kids and no titled assets) that there was no need to have a will drafted, that I only needed to make sure that a beneficiary to my checking and savings accounts was named, so that they could receive the funds in the event of my death. Thank you so much for your easy, honest and helpful demeanor!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | October 29, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Helped with Unique Landlord/Tenant Issue
Joe helped me understand where I stood in terms of a Landlord/Tenant situation with much clarity. Now I know what to do moving forward.
Posted by KM | March 8, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very impressed
Mr. Jaap was wonderful from the very beginning. We had large concerns that would have only gotten larger without his recommendations, and he was very prompt, professional, kind, and thorough. I appreciated that he reached out for updates and check ins throughout the process, even if I had forgotten to respond to an email. This shows incredible professionalism and really reassured me. This was all regarding a free consultation, so it truly impressed me. We will 100% continue with his services, and I could not speak more highly about the experience with had with Mr. Jaap.
Read less
Posted by Lisa | August 29, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Evictions
Mr. Jaap was excellent!! I would refer!! I'm so humbled and thankful that he gave me quick and direct attention to my question. God bless him!!
Posted by Dan | May 7, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Gave Great Advice
Gave quick, great advice on a time-sensitive question. Then he also replied to my comment promptly with sound advice.
Posted by Renee | May 7, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Timely and helpul
I received an reply within five minutes of submitting the questions. He pretty much confirmed my thoughts. He advised me on what actions I could take.
Posted by anonymous | March 29, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
great experience
timely. very informative. very professional. provided me with the insight i needed, and was able to point me in the right direction.
Posted by Deb | March 6, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Responsive and Informative
Appreciate all the information you provided, more than I expected. Thank you.
Posted by Sarah | August 9, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
No wonder why he's highly rated
I only consulted Mr. Jaap regarding some legal issues that I was having and could not hire him because we are not in the same area. He listened to my situation and seemed very compassionate. He tried to help me find lawyers in my area for me to work with regarding my situation and offered that I could contact him again if I needed any more guidance potentially. I think anyone who hired him would definitely be in good hands.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | June 22, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Professional, Timely and Insightful
When I asked for advice, Mr. Jaap was quick to respond in a very confident but, sensitive manner. Mr. Jaap was timely as well as he was Insightful giving direction without contention or condemnation. Mr. Jaap seems to be the lawyer you want when dealing with matters such as: Contracts and agreements, Real estate, Divorce and separation.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | June 21, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very professional
Responded to my questions although my concerns are outside of his expertise.
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 20 minutes
Payment methods
Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.5 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Barron Peck Bennie & Schlemmer Co. LPA
  • 2004 - 2018
  • Attorney
  • Graydon Head & Ritchey
  • 1989 - 2004
  • Advanced Controls Design Engineer
  • General Electric Aviation
  • 1985 - 1986
  • Lead Engineer - Tomahawk Missile System Integration
  • McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Co.
  • 1984 - 1985
  • Nuclear Operations Engineer
  • Cincinnati Gas & Electric Co. - Zimmer Station
  • 1980 - 1984
  • Navy Nuclear-Power Surface Warfare Officer
  • United States Navy
  • 1974 - 1980
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Michigan Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1989
  • Purdue University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1974
  • Purdue University
  • MS - Master of Science
  • 1974

Legal Cases

  • THE HERMITAGE CLUB CO., INC. v. POWERS
  • Successfully argued and appeals court affirmed decision of trial court
  • HENDERSON ELEC. v. ELAN CONSTR. MGT
  • Successfully argued and appeals court affirmed decision of trial court

Associations

  • Navy League of the U.S. - Cincinnati Council
  • Secretary
  • 2009 - Present
  • Cincinnati Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • USS Cincinnati - Cold War Memorial
  • Project Coordinator
  • 2000 - Present
  • BNI - Cincinnati Rookwood Chapter
  • Secretary-Treasurer
  • 2014 - 2016
  • BNI - Cincinnati Rookwood Chapter
  • Vice President
  • 2011 - 2013
  • Cincinnati Partners in Education
  • Tutor
  • 2000 - 2012
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2002

Publications

  • Ohio App
  • Registered Land Real Estate Case
  • 1995
  • Ohio App
  • Briefed and Successfully Argued to the Ohio First District Court of Appeals: Mechanic's Lien Case
  • 1993
  • Northern Kentucky Law Review
  • Private Cost Recovery under CERCLA for Hazardous Substance Cleanup: A Last Resort
  • 1991

Speaking Engagements

  • NBI
  • Understanding the Basics of Mechanics’ Lien Law
  • 2014
  • Cincinnati Eastside Lawyers
  • Understanding the Basics of Mechanics’ Lien Law
  • 2013

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (1)
Endorse Joseph
Contracts and agreements Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Jaap is undoubtedly a top notch attorney who has skillfully mastered his primary area of practice over the course of his professional experience. His sharp critical thinking and flawless work ethic are perhaps the key qualities which ensured the success of a remarkable number of his cases. I endorse this lawyer and encourage anyone who needs superior legal representation to opt for his services."
Contracts and agreements Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Joseph is a highly skilled, diligent and knowledgeable attorney who is well-known in the legal community for his outstanding professionalism. He was able to obtain satisfactory results even for clients whose cases were incredibly difficult by dedicating his time and effort to achieve the best results. I certainly endorse this lawyer and have no doubt he will be of great help to anyone seeking legal advice or representation within his main areas of practice."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Real estate Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Jaap always gives thorough and reliable advice to AVVO users. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Joseph is always willing to share his wisdom and expertise with others. I endorse him as he is a highly respected attorney in the profession."
Landlord or tenant Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Jaap gives practical and sound advice. I endorse this lawyer."
Probate Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I admire and respect Joseph's contributions to the community, and his responses to inquiries. I endorse this lawyer."
Contracts and agreements Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Jaap is knowledgeable and provides helpful advice. I endorse this lawyer."
Real estate Attorney | Jun 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse attorney Joseph Jaap for clients with issues concerning real estate, construction, leasing and business issues related to contracting, licensing, employment issues, trademarks and copyrights. Joe and I have known each other for many years, and refer our clients to each other when needed. Joe and his firm also assist clients with family problems such as divorce, custody and support issues, along with wills, living wills and power of attorney for their estate planning needs."
View more endorsements

Avvo Contributions

Top Contributor 2023
Top Contributor

Joseph earned significant contribution points in 2023.

8864 Legal Answers 0 Legal Guides
Cincinnati Estate planning Lawyer Joseph Bradford Jaap
Joseph Bradford Jaap
Estate planning Attorney
Cincinnati, OH
Licensed for 34 years
Free Consultation