Athens Criminal Defense Lawyer

Athens, Ohio Criminal Defense Attorneys 

Strategic Defense Representation Near You

If you are facing criminal charges in Athens after an arrest, you should depend on a legal team with the experience, insight, and determination to protect your rights from the very beginning. 

At Patituce & Associates, we bring decades of combined trial experience and proven legal strategies to every case we handle. 

Led by Attorney Joseph C. Patituce, who is a former prosecutor, a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, and a defense lawyer who has handled more than 20,000 criminal cases, our firm is recognized across Ohio for strong, effective criminal defense representation. 

With more than 400 trials and 24/7 availability, we are prepared to take immediate action to defend your rights.

Call us at (440) 771-1175. Begin your defense after a free initial consultation with our Athens, OH criminal defense lawyers.

Each Case is Unique Each Deserves a Customized Defense Strategy We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.

Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Athens

Criminal accusations can affect nearly every part of your life: your employment, your housing, your travel, and your future opportunities. You deserve a legal team that knows how to challenge the state’s evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Our firm represents individuals facing a wide range of criminal allegations, including but not limited to:

  • Arson
  • Assault
  • Domestic violence
  • Drug crimes
  • Federal offenses
  • Homicide
  • Juvenile crimes
  • Operating a vehicle impaired (OVI)
  • Sex crimes
  • Theft crimes
  • Weapons charges
  • White-collar crimes

We approach each case with careful analysis, detailed investigation, and the strategic insight needed to pursue the best possible outcome for you. Whether this is your first time facing criminal charges or you have prior encounters with the justice system, we can guide you through each stage and work to protect your future.

Criminal Defense Representation for Ohio University Students

Athens is home to Ohio University, a campus with a high volume of temporary residents who may encounter legal trouble during their time in the city. Whether the arrest occurred on campus, at a student residence or dorm, at a local bar, or during a routine traffic stop, college-related criminal charges can impact your academic standing, financial aid, and future career options, as well as land you behind bars.

We have extensive experience representing college students, including those facing:

  • Alcohol-related charges, such as underage possession, public intoxication, or DUI/OVI
  • Drug-related offenses
  • Disorderly conduct, assault, or altercations connected to campus events
  • Theft, property crimes, or allegations involving student housing
  • Campus law enforcement investigations or referrals from the Ohio University Police

Students often face unique consequences beyond the criminal justice system when arrested, charged, and convicted. You may be required to report the incident to the university, participate in disciplinary hearings, or comply with academic or housing restrictions. We can fight to protect you from the penalties of the criminal process, so any collateral issues that may arise from Ohio University’s code of conduct procedures can be minimized.

Let Us Handle All Parts of Your Defense Case

Criminal cases involve multiple moving parts, and a skilled attorney’s role is to guide you through each stage while protecting your rights and creating the strongest defense possible. At Patituce & Associates, we take a proactive approach from the moment you contact us.

An Athens, OH criminal defense attorney can help you with:

  • Pre-arrest legal guidance if you believe you are being investigated
  • Independent investigations to uncover evidence favorable to your case
  • Identifying constitutional violations or unlawful actions by law enforcement
  • Filing motions to exclude evidence that was obtained improperly
  • Attempting to negotiate plea agreements when appropriate and aligned with your goals
  • Preparing your case for trial and advocating before a judge or jury

Attorney Patituce’s background as a former prosecutor provides valuable insight into how the state prepares its charges. We anticipate prosecutorial strategy, challenge weaknesses in the evidence, and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Call Now – We’re Available 24/7

Criminal charges require quick action, especially when evidence needs to be preserved or your rights need protection before speaking with police or investigators. Our Athens criminal defense attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your call. We remain ready to take action and protect your future from whatever the Ohio criminal justice system throws at you.

Start your defense right now. Call (440) 771-1175 and speak with a defense lawyer.

    “Worth Every Penny”
    “Outstanding service!!! Worth every penny!!! Great communication, quick response time, and when my case hit some speed bumps, he handled them easily. I am extremely pleased with my outcome.”
    - Kevin I.
    “Couldn't Have Made A Better Choice”
    “I engaged Joe Patituce's services for my DUI case, and I couldn't have made a better choice. He and his team demonstrated excellence throughout, managing my case with remarkable skill and professionalism.”
    - Glenn G.
    “Ethical and Honest”
    “They genuinely care about their clients, they are ethical, honest and highly proactive. They guided us with care through the uncertainty that is our legal system. They kept us informed and answered all our questions.”
    - Matthew S.
    “We Are Grateful”
    “Seeking representation for federal charges against my husband led me to engage with this firm. Swiftly connected with Joe Patituce, we made the decision to enlist his services that very day, a choice we're grateful for.”
    - Martha L.
    “Unwavering Support”
    “Their friendly and approachable team provided unwavering support. They worked diligently to build a robust defense, ensuring my side of the story was heard and considered!!!”
    - Cora B.
    “Present & Attentive”
    “My attorney was present, attentive, always returned my calls, answered my questions, and never ignored my calls. If I ever need an attorney in the future I will definitely go back to her.”
    - Former Client
    “Responsive and Friendly”
    “Very responsive, friendly, and obviously very good with words. She kept me out of jail and home with my kiddo. For that I can't ever repay the favor. Much appreciated!”
    - Roberto M.
    “I highly recommend them to everybody”
    “They talked me through my whole case and when I told them I wanted a trial, they agreed without hesitation. They were very professional, and I couldn’t ask for a better law firm to have my back.”
    - Thomas S.

8 Offices Serving All of Ohio

Available 24/7
Let Us Fight For You

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Patituce & Associates at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy
Locations
  • Toledo Office
    412 14th Street
    Toledo, OH 43604
    Map & Directions
  • Akron Office
    520 S Main Street
    Suite 2511
    Akron, OH 44311
    Map & Directions
  • Beachwood Office
    2000 Auburn Drive
    Suite 200
    Beachwood, OH 44122
    Map & Directions
  • Cincinnati Office
    201 E 5th St.
    Ste 1900
    Cincinnati, OH 45202
    Map & Directions
  • Cleveland Office
    600 Superior Avenue East
    Suite 1358
    Cleveland, OH 44114
    Map & Directions
  • Independence Office
    6100 Oak Tree Boulevard
    Suite 200
    Independence, OH 44131
    Map & Directions
  • Strongsville Office
    16855 Foltz Industrial Pkwy, Suite 1
    Strongsville, OH 44149
    Map & Directions
  • Dayton Office
    28 N Wilkinson Street
    Dayton, OH 45402
    Map & Directions
Follow Us