Violent Crimes – Delaware

Violent Crime Lawyers In Delaware, OH

Violent crimes are among the most serious offenses in Delaware, Ohio, carrying severe penalties and long-term consequences. If you are facing charges for a violent crime, it’s essential to understand what counts as a violent crime, the potential penalties, and how a strong defense can make a difference in your case.

The experienced Delaware, Ohio, criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc. are here to help. Call us for a free consultation with a member of our team. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and answer any questions you have.

What Counts as a Violent Crime in Ohio?

Assault – Assault involves intentionally causing physical injury to another person. Ohio distinguishes between different degrees of assault, with aggravated assault being the most severe, involving serious injury.
Robbery – Robbery is the act of taking property from another person through force or the threat of force. This crime differs from theft, which does not involve force or threats. The presence of force makes robbery a felony instead of a misdemeanor of theft.
Manslaughter – Manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another through negligent or reckless actions, such as by running a red light and crashing into another vehicle. This charge may also apply in situations where a person causes death as a result of extreme emotional disturbance.
Murder – Murder is one of the most severe violent crimes in Ohio, involving the intentional killing of another person. First-degree murder carries some of the harshest penalties, including life in prison or the death sentence
Domestic Violence – Domestic violence includes a range of violent acts inflicted on family members or intimate partners, including assault, battery, and harassment. The state takes these crimes very seriously, and a conviction can significantly impact your future.
Kidnapping – Kidnapping involves the unlawful confinement or abduction of another person. While many people think of kidnapping as happening between unrelated parties, it’s also possible for parents to kidnap their children, such as by not handing the children over to an ex-spouse at an agreed-upon time and place.
Sexual Assault – Sexual assault includes unlawful sexual contact, sexual penetration (rape), sexual extortion, and other sex crimes, including those committed against children. Individuals convicted of sex offenses must register on Ohio’s sex offender registry in addition to other penalties.

Penalties for Violent Crimes in Ohio

Imprisonment – Most violent crimes in Ohio fall under the felony classification, which means they may carry significant prison sentences. On the low end, convictions for fifth-degree felonies may result in up to one year in prison. On the high end, convictions for first-degree felonies may result in between three years and life in prison.
Fines – Besides imprisonment, individuals convicted of violent crimes may face significant fines. These fines vary depending on the offense committed but can reach thousands of dollars.
Loss of Rights – A conviction for a violent crime can result in the loss of certain civil rights, including the right to own firearms and the right to hold certain professional licenses. Additionally, those convicted of felonies cannot vote in Ohio while serving their sentences but may be able to restore their right to vote afterward.
Criminal Record – Violent crime convictions will appear on your criminal record, and you will likely not be able to expunge them without a pardon. This record can impact your ability to find employment, enroll in higher education, and secure housing.
Increased Penalties – Ohio is moving to increase penalties for violent offenders, particularly those who reoffend. This new legislation seeks to enforce harsher penalties when felons use firearms during the commission of a crime.

Building a Strong Defense Against Violent Crime Charges

Building a solid defense against violent crime charges in Ohio requires a thorough understanding of state law, the facts of the case, and effective legal strategies. An experienced defense attorney may use the following strategies to defeat or reduce your charges:

Challenging the Evidence – Your attorney may challenge the validity of the evidence presented by the prosecution. This may involve questioning the reliability of witnesses, the accuracy of forensics, and the legality of how police collected evidence.
Self-Defense – In some cases, your attorney may be able to argue that you acted in self-defense. For this to be the case, you must have acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm.
Mistaken Identity – If there is any question about your involvement in the crime, your attorney may jump on this doubt and argue that police and prosecutors wrongly identified you.
Alibi – If you have an alibi that proves you were elsewhere at the time of the crime, your attorney can use this to fight back against the charges.
Lack of Intent – Certain violent crimes, such as first-degree murder, rely on the intent of the defendant. Your attorney may be able to get your charges reduced if they can argue that the necessary intent is missing.

Do I Need an Attorney in Delaware, Ohio?

If you are facing charges for a violent felony in Ohio, you need an attorney. Violent crime cases are complex, often involving significant amounts of evidence, and carry severe penalties that can impact every aspect of your life.

You need an attorney with experience navigating the criminal justice system who can advocate on your behalf and work with you to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Violent Crime Defense Attorney Serving Delaware, Ohio

Were you charged with a violent crime in Delaware, Ohio? Call 614-444-3036 to schedule a free consultation with one of the criminal defense attorneys of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.

During your initial consultation, we’ll review your case and help you identify the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you. Our attorneys will also explain your legal options and the criminal defense process so you know what to expect going forward.