Murder Classifications in Ohio Explained
Ohio criminal law has numerous offenses for homicide, the unlawful killing of another person, or unlawful termination of that person’s pregnancy. Ohio’s Homicide Statutes Ohio law has multiple classifications for homicide offenses. Ohio’s homicide statutes include the following. Aggravated Murder Ohio defines aggravated murder as any of the following: Murder A person commits murder under […]
Federal Sentencing Guidelines Chart
In the federal criminal justice system, district judges use the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines to help them determine a defendant’s sentence. Due to their advisory nature, district judges do not have to impose the sentence indicated by the Guidelines. Rather, judges can consider other factors that vary upward or downward from the Guidelines range. However, […]
When Can a Teenager Be Criminally Tried as an Adult in Ohio?
When your child gets arrested for a serious crime in Ohio, such as a violent offense or a crime involving significant property damage, you might worry whether they may face prosecution as an adult. When Can Prosecutors Transfer a Teenager to Adult Court? Under Ohio law, prosecutors may seek a mandatory or discretionary waiver of […]
When Does Vehicular Manslaughter Turn into Vehicular Homicide in the State of Ohio?
Under Ohio law, a person can commit the offense of vehicular manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or aggravated vehicular homicide when they cause someone’s death or terminate another person’s pregnancy while operating a motor vehicle, locomotive, watercraft, or aircraft and causing an accident. The specific offense a person may face will depend on the circumstances surrounding the […]
Burglary vs. Robbery: Legal Differences Explained
People may consider burglary and robbery as two types of theft crimes, with a burglary involving a theft that occurs when someone breaks into another’s property to steal items inside and a robbery involving stealing property from someone in public. However, burglary and robbery have several differences that make the scope of each crime broader […]
Top Strategies for Building a Strong Defense in an Ohio Criminal Case
If you were arrested and charged with a crime in Ohio, prompt action to build a compelling defense can give you the best chance of securing a favorable outcome in a criminal case. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you develop and pursue compelling defense strategies. Here are some ways your lawyer will bolster […]
Defense Strategies for Repeat OVI Offenses in Ohio
Following an OVI arrest in Ohio, you may face enhanced penalties if you’re convicted as a repeat offender. As a result, pursuing a compelling defense can give you the best chance of obtaining an acquittal or dismissal of a second or subsequent OVI charge. Here are some common defense strategies used in OVI cases in […]
Federal vs. State Crimes: Understanding the Differences
After an arrest, you may face prosecution for an offense in either state or federal court, and sometimes in both. Knowing where your case may end up can help you understand your options for pursuing a resolution to your charges. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can explain your charges and the applicable criminal justice process […]
What Is the Difference Between Rape and Sexual Battery in Ohio?
Ohio’s criminal law has separate offenses for the crimes of rape and sexual battery. Under what circumstances does a defendant face a rape charge versus a sexual battery charge in Ohio? Rape Under Ohio Law Ohio’s rape statute defines the offense as engaging in sexual conduct with another person when: Rape constitutes a first-degree felony […]
Should I Complete Field Sobriety Tests if Pulled Over for an OVI?
When a police officer pulls you over on suspicion of operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI), they may ask you to exit your vehicle to perform field sobriety tests. The anxiety-inducing nature of a traffic stop and the officer’s demeanor may cause many a driver to think they must submit to field sobriety tests. […]