Does a Victim Have to Testify in a Domestic Violence Case in Ohio?
For many Ohio residents, the idea of testifying against a spouse or romantic partner in a domestic violence case is terrifying. In some cases, the victim may not want their partner to face criminal prosecution. In others, the thought of having to face their former partner and recount what happened is painful and potentially traumatic. […]
What Is the Lowest Class Felony in Ohio?
Felonies are the most serious types of criminal charges in Ohio. However, not all felonies are punished in the same way. Ohio classifies felonies in five different degrees. First-degree felonies are the most severe, while fifth-degree felonies are the lowest felony class. A conviction for a fifth-degree felony in Ohio can lead to a definite […]
What Makes an Ohio Drug Charge “Aggravated”?
Being arrested on charges of drug possession is always a serious matter. However, if the language during your arrest or hearing involved the term “aggravated possession,” you might have felt confused. Is “aggravated” simply a technical legal term, or does it indicate something more severe? In Ohio, most drug possession charges are classified as misdemeanors. […]
What Are the Laws on Marijuana Possession in Ohio?
Since the legalization of recreational marijuana use in Ohio in December 2023, adults have been able to use cannabis without facing legal repercussions. However, the laws on marijuana possession remain complex, and some circumstances can still lead to penalties. The legal team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder receives many questions about marijuana possession laws, and […]
Attorney Marshal Pitchford Receives Award for Super Lawyers
Attorney Marshal Pitchford of DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder has been selected as a Super Lawyer for 2025. Attorney Pitchford has earned recognition as a Super Lawyer since 2021. He was also selected to Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list from 2009 through 2014. About Marshal Pitchford Attorney Marshal Pitchford is a partner in the law firm […]
Domestic Assault Law in Ohio
Are you facing strangulation charges under Ohio’s domestic assault laws? You might find yourself in this difficult position due to a misunderstanding or a moment when emotions ran high. Whatever the case, this is a serious situation that could have significant consequences for your future, including jail time, fines, and long-term restrictions like losing your […]
Pre-Charge Representation for Sex Crimes
Obtaining pre-charge representation means hiring a lawyer before the police charge you with a crime. This is critical if law enforcement contacts you about a sex crime investigation. A lawyer can help by explaining the legal process, what you might face next, and the potential consequences of the investigation. They can also guide you on […]
What Drugs Are Decriminalized in Ohio?
Drug decriminalization is the elimination of criminal penalties associated with drug use and possession. While there may still be prohibitions in place concerning a drug – and, in some cases, severe criminal penalties associated with its use, possession, production, or sale – possession of a small amount for personal use is no longer a criminal […]
Exploring Types of White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes include offenses committed by individuals, government officials, or businesses, usually with a financial motivation. Perpetrators of white-collar crimes typically use deceit, concealment, or breach of trust to commit their offenses. Common examples of white-collar crimes include forgery, money laundering, embezzlement, identity theft, bribery, Medicaid fraud, and insurance fraud. Forgery Forgery occurs when a […]
How Is Child Abuse Defined in the State of Ohio?
In Ohio, child abuse occurs when a child suffers criminal sexual activity, becomes an “endangered” child, suffers non-accidental physical/mental injuries, or suffers childcare abuse. Child abuse can result in administrative sanctions such as listing in a child abuse registry or penalties for violations of Ohio’s child abuse criminal laws. Ohio’s Child Abuse Statutes Ohio law […]