What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Ohio?

Ohio law considers domestic violence one of the most serious criminal offenses. A domestic violence conviction may result in severe penalties, including incarceration, fines, and other long-term consequences. When a family member has accused you of domestic violence, get the legal advocacy you need from a dedicated domestic violence attorney to protect your freedom and future.

Understanding Domestic Violence Under Ohio Law

In Ohio, a person can commit domestic violence against a family or household member, such as a spouse, former spouse, romantic partner, parent, or any other person who currently lives or previously lived with the person accused of domestic violence. Under Ohio’s domestic violence law, a person may face criminal charges if they:

• Knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to a family or household member
• Recklessly cause serious physical harm
• Knowingly cause, by threat of force, a family or household member to believe the offender will cause imminent physical harm

In most cases, committing a crime of domestic violence constitutes a misdemeanor offense under Ohio criminal law. However, the grading of a domestic violence offense can increase to a felony if an offender has a prior domestic violence conviction, becoming a fourth-degree felony offense or a third-degree felony after two or more domestic violence convictions.

Furthermore, if an offender commits an act of domestic violence against a pregnant family or household member, the offense can increase to a second- or first-degree misdemeanor. Causing physical harm to a pregnant domestic violence victim may result in a fifth-degree felony charge.

Penalties for Misdemeanor Domestic Violence

Penalties for a misdemeanor violence offense include:

Fourth-Degree Misdemeanor

Up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250

Second-Degree Misdemeanor

Up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $750

First-Degree Misdemeanor

Up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000

Penalties for Felony Domestic Violence

Penalties for felony domestic violence charges can include:

Fifth-Degree Felony

Six to 12 months incarceration and a fine of up to $2,500

Fourth-Degree Felony

Six to 18 months incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000

Third-Degree Felony

Nine to 36 months incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000

Under certain circumstances, the domestic violence statute requires courts to impose mandatory minimum sentences for domestic violence convictions.

Other Consequences of Domestic Violence Offenses

A person accused of committing domestic violence may face additional consequences, including the imposition of a protection-from-abuse order that precludes an offender from contacting or coming near an alleged domestic violence victim or their family members, home, or workplace. A conviction may also result in revocation of the right to purchase, own, or possess firearms.

Contact a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today

Following an arrest for domestic violence in Ohio, you need dedicated legal representation to defend your rights and reputation.

Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today to discuss your options for pursuing a favorable outcome in a free, confidential consultation with our experienced domestic violence defense lawyers.