Columbus Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Protection Orders

In addition to potential criminal consequences, domestic violence allegations can result in a protection order against you, which can seriously impact your life. If the court grants their request, the order can contain limiting language that affects you, including orders to:

• Not go to their home, school, or place of employment
• Relinquish possession of a shared residence to them
• Relinquish possession of firearms or ammunition
• Not abuse or commit any sexually-oriented offense against them
• Not take or hide their companion animal
• Limit their contact with children they share in common

The protective order will be ordered temporarily. However, it can become permanent after the criminal case is complete or a permanent protection order is granted

Can the “Victim” Drop the Charges?

Once a criminal case is initiated, it is out of the victim’s hands. The prosecutor has a duty to uphold the laws of the state and to seek justice for the good of society. Therefore, the victim does not have the authority to drop charges once they’ve been filed. Nonetheless, the prosecutor may consider whether they have a winnable case if the victim is not cooperating.

Potential Penalties for Ohio Domestic Violence Crimes

The potential penalties you can face for an Ohio domestic violence offense depend on the circumstances and whether you have any prior domestic violence history. Here are some of the potential penalties based on cases our firm often handles:

First Offense Involving Threats to Use Physical Force

A first offense involving only threats and the actual or attempted use of force is a second-degree misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.

First Offense Involving Physical Harm or the Attempt to Cause Harm

A first offense involving physical harm or an attempt to cause physical harm is a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio. This offense can result in up to six months in jail and five years of probation. The defendant can also be ordered to pay court costs and a fine of up to $1,000.

Domestic violence convictions are not eligible for expunction.

Subsequent Domestic Violence Offense

Beyond the first conviction, the offense can be classified as a felony resulting in up to eight years in prison. A conviction of this nature can prevent the defendant from working in certain lines of work.

First Violation of a Protective Order

The first violation of a protective order is a first-degree misdemeanor, which can result in up to six months behind bars and $1,000 in fines.

Second or Subsequent Violation of a Protective Order

A second or subsequent violation of a protective order is a fifth-degree felony, punishable by up to one-year imprisonment and up to $2,500 in fines