Criminal Defense Lawyer In Delaware, OH

Are you facing criminal charges in Delaware, Ohio? If so, you’re probably worried about your future, your finances, and even your freedom. However, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Instead, you can get help from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc. at 614-444-3036 for a free consultation with one of our experienced defense attorneys. We’ll evaluate your case, help you understand the charges against you, and explain your legal options.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is essential for those charged with a crime in Delaware, Ohio. The stakes in a criminal case are high, and an experienced attorney can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Even if the charges you’re facing seem minor, a poor outcome can have a long-lasting impact on your life, affecting your employment, housing, and personal relationships. For this reason, you need a criminal defense attorney who can:

Evaluate Your Case – Your lawyer will assess the details of your case to determine the best defense strategy. They will review the evidence, interview witnesses, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Protect Your Rights – From the moment of your arrest, you have certain rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. A lawyer can make sure police and prosecutors respect your rights throughout the legal process.
Negotiate a Plea Deal – In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution to reduce your charges or penalties. An experienced lawyer knows how to navigate these negotiations to achieve the best possible outcome.
Represent You in Court – Having a lawyer with plenty of courtroom experience will give you peace of mind when your case goes to trial. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and make compelling arguments to the jury on your behalf.

Types of Ohio Criminal Defense Cases

OVI and Traffic Offenses – Operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) is a serious charge in Ohio, with severe penalties that can include license suspension, fines, and imprisonment. Other traffic offenses, such as reckless driving or driving without a license, also require legal representation to reduce their impact on your life.
Drug Crimes – Ohio has strict drug laws, and penalties for possessing, distributing, or manufacturing controlled substances can be harsh. Whether prosecutors are charging you with simple possession or trafficking large quantities of controlled substances, an attorney can help.
Theft and Property Crimes – Charges such as shoplifting, burglary, and vandalism are property crimes. The severity of the charges depends on the value of the property involved and whether the crime involved violence or the threat of violence.
Assault and Violent Crimes – Assault, domestic violence, and other violent crimes carry severe penalties. A conviction for these types of offenses can result in lengthy prison sentences.
White-Collar Crimes – Fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft fall under the umbrella of white-collar crimes. These crimes typically involve financial transactions and may involve federal prosecution in addition to state prosecution.
Sex Crimes – Ohio takes charges of sexual assault, child pornography, and other sex-related crimes very seriously. These cases require a strong defense due to a conviction’s severe legal consequences and social stigma.

Ohio Misdemeanor Classifications and Penalties

First-Degree Misdemeanors – Those convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor can face a jail sentence of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1,000.
Second-Degree Misdemeanors – Those convicted of a second-degree misdemeanor can face a jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of up to $750.
Third-Degree Misdemeanors – Those convicted of a third-degree misdemeanor can face a jail sentence of up to 60 days and a fine of up to $500.
Fourth-Degree Misdemeanors – Those convicted of a fourth-degree misdemeanor can face a jail sentence of up to 30 days and a fine of up to $250.
Minor Misdemeanors – Those convicted of a minor misdemeanor can face a fine of up to $150 and community service

Ohio Felony Classifications and Penalties

Felonies are serious crimes in Ohio and carry the harshest penalties. There are five classifications of felonies, with potential penalties and fines as follows:

First-Degree Felonies – Those convicted of a first-degree felony can face a fine of up to $20,000 and an indefinite prison term with a minimum of three to eleven years and a maximum based on qualifying factors.
Second-Degree Felonies – Those convicted of a second-degree felony can face a fine of up to $15,000 an indefinite prison term with a minimum of two to eight years and a maximum based on qualifying factors.
Third-Degree Felonies – Those convicted of a third-degree felony can face a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of between nine months and five years.
Fourth-Degree Felonies – Those convicted of a fourth-degree felony can face a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison sentence of between six and eighteen months.
Fifth-Degree Felonies – Those convicted of a fifth-degree felony can face a fine of up to $2,500 and a prison sentence of between six and twelve months.

Can I Get My Criminal Record Sealed or Expunged in Ohio?

A criminal record can affect your life, making it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses. In Ohio, sealing and expunging a criminal record refers to the same act of sealing a crime so it doesn’t appear on a person’s record.

According to Ohio law, courts cannot seal or expunge certain convictions, such as those for violent felonies or felonies of the first or second degree. The more minor your offense is, the more likely you can have it sealed.

Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Delaware, Ohio

If you are facing criminal charges in Delaware, Ohio, whether they’re misdemeanor or felony charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. An attorney can prevent prosecutors from violating your rights and assist you in defeating the charges or reducing the penalties you face.

Call 614-444-3036 for a free consultation with one of the criminal defense lawyers of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc. We’ll review your case to identify its strengths and weaknesses, help you understand what to expect moving forward, and tell you why you should choose us to handle your defense.