Criminal Defense
Attorney in
Columbus, OH

Stay calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions from law enforcement beyond identifying yourself; anything you say can and will be used against you. Ask clearly for an attorney and stop speaking until one is present. Contact SRD Law Office as early as possible; the sooner representation is in place, the better position you’re in before prosecutors build their case.

Ohio law divides criminal offenses into misdemeanors, including first-, second-, third-, and fourth-degree misdemeanors and minor misdemeanors, and felonies ranging from fifth-degree to first-degree felonies. Penalties depend on the classification and the specific offense. A first-degree misdemeanor generally carries up to 180 days in jail, while felony prison terms vary by degree and the applicable statute.

Yes. Depending on the facts and circumstances, charges may be dismissed or reduced. Potential reasons can include evidentiary problems, legal or constitutional issues, insufficient evidence, or negotiated resolutions. A defendant’s criminal history and the specific circumstances of the alleged offense may also affect how the case is handled.

Ohio’s OVI statute prohibits operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination of them, and also establishes specified prohibited alcohol concentrations. For whole blood, a concentration of 0.08% or more can constitute an OVI violation, with a separate 0.17% or higher threshold carrying enhanced consequences under the statute. Ohio also has a 0.17% or higher alcohol-concentration threshold that can result in enhanced penalties. OVI is not limited to alcohol; prescription medications and controlled substances can support a charge even when no alcohol is involved.

An arraignment is generally an early court appearance at which the defendant is informed of the charges and allowed to enter a plea. In Franklin County Municipal Court, defendants may plead guilty, no contest, or not guilty, and the court may also address bond and the next stage of the case. Having legal counsel present at arraignment is important; it can affect bail conditions and set the tone for everything that follows.

A criminal conviction can remain on your record unless it qualifies for sealing or expungement under Ohio law. Eligibility depends on factors such as the offense, the number and types of convictions, and the time that has passed since final discharge. Ohio law excludes certain convictions from sealing and expungement, including first- and second-degree felonies and certain offenses of violence and sexually oriented offenses. An early consultation is the right time to discuss record implications.

Yes. Juvenile criminal proceedings in Ohio operate under a separate system, Franklin County Juvenile Court, with its own rules, timelines, and disposition options. The juvenile system places significant emphasis on rehabilitation, but juvenile proceedings can still result in detention, probation, and other consequences. The treatment and accessibility of juvenile records depend on the circumstances of the case and applicable Ohio law. We work to protect juvenile clients’ futures at every stage of the process.

Depending on the charges and circumstances, a criminal case may involve an initial appearance or arraignment, pre-trial hearings, discovery, motions practice, plea negotiations, and, if necessary, a trial followed by sentencing if there is a conviction. The order and timing of these steps can vary by case. Throughout, we manage each step, communicate with prosecutors, and advise you on every decision so nothing catches you off guard.