Meet Joseph D. Heyd

Founder | Mediator | Arbitrator | Litigation Risk Evaluator

With over 35 years of experience as a practicing trial attorney and litigator, Joseph D. Heyd brings both deep legal expertise and a pragmatic, client-focused approach to dispute resolution. His reputation for fairness, preparation, and sound judgment equip him to be a trusted neutral for even your most contentious matters.

Experience & Qualifications:

  • Former federal prosecutor, law firm litigator, and corporate in-house head of litigation with two top global companies: GE and P&G

  • Handled cases across multiple subject matters and global geographies

  • Extensive background in complex, high-stakes commercial, product liability, class action and civil litigation

  • Led teams that delivered victories in wide array of litigation, as well as defended against government securities and other investigations

  • Recently completed Ohio Supreme Court and Harvard Executive Education training in mediation practices

  • Known for handling high-stakes disputes with discretion and integrity

Education:

  • St. Xavier High School Class of 1981

  • The Ohio State University:  B.S., cum laude, in Political Science & Philosophy, 1985; Phi Beta Kappa; Truman Foundation Scholarship; Sphinx Senior Honor Society

  • University of Virginia School of Law: Juris Doctorate, 1989; Order of the Coif; Managing Board, Virginia Law Review; Director, Post-Conviction Assistance Project

  • Mediation Intensive Program at Harvard University

Professional Affiliations:

  • Cincinnati Bar Association: Approved & listed Mediator with CBADR Services, https://www.cincybar.org/adr/mediators; President, CBA Board of Trustees; Active in multiple CBA committees and programs, including Cincinnati Academy of Leadership for Lawyers, Corporate Practice Committee, and Character and Fitness Committee

  • Hamilton County (Ohio) Municipal and Probate Courts: Court-appointed Mediator

  • Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati: Member, Board of Trustees; President, Board of Trustees, Volunteer Lawyers for the Poor Foundation

  • Hamilton County (Ohio) Juvenile Court: President, Advisory Council

  • Hamilton County (Ohio) Tax Levy Review Commission Member

  • University of Cincinnati College of Law: Adjunct Professor, Trial Advocacy (1994-2016)

I approach each matter with respect, empathy and expertise —listening fully, thinking creatively, and applying decades of litigation insight to help parties find smart, workable solutions.

Want to see if I am a good fit for your matter?

Let’s talk.