Franklin Criminal Defense Lawyers
Your Defense, Our Commitment
Facing criminal charges can be one of the most overwhelming experiences of your life. A conviction can threaten your freedom, your reputation, and your future. That’s why our team of battle-tested criminal defense attorneys serving Franklin is committed to standing by your side, fighting to protect your rights at every stage of the legal process.
At Patituce & Associates, we have over 70 years of combined experience and have tried more than 400 cases. Our lawyers bring unmatched knowledge, strategy, and dedication to every case we handle.
Our legal team includes former prosecutors and a Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney who knows how the system works—and how to challenge it. No matter the complexity of your case, we take a relentless, results-driven approach to pursuing a just outcome.
Why Our Team Is an Ideal Choice for Criminal Defense
At Patituce & Associates, we are a team of criminal defense lawyers with a reputation for taking on tough cases and winning. Our approach is aggressive, strategic, and rooted in a deep understanding of the criminal justice system.
We do not back down, no matter how difficult or complex your case may seem. We believe that no case is hopeless, and we fight relentlessly, exploring every legal avenue to seek a favorable outcome. Our commitment is unwavering because we know what’s at stake—your freedom, reputation, and future.
You need a law firm that won’t back down when your future is on the line. No case is hopeless, and no challenge is too great. Call (440) 771-1175 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
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Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
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Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
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Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
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Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
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Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
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Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
Protect Your Rights and Future
Being arrested is a stressful and often frightening experience, but what you do next can impact the trajectory of your case. Law enforcement officers work to gather evidence that can be used against you, and even a seemingly harmless statement can be twisted to fit their narrative.
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, taking the proper steps immediately after an arrest can make a difference:
- Stay silent and request an attorney – You are not obligated to answer police questions. The Constitution guarantees your right to remain silent, which is critical. Instead of engaging with officers, firmly state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and want an attorney present.
- Avoid discussing your case – Beyond law enforcement, you should not discuss your case with anyone—friends, family, or social media connections. Conversations can be misinterpreted, and prosecutors can subpoena messages, emails, and posts to build their case against you. Even well-intentioned discussions can create complications that weaken your defense.
- Call a criminal defense lawyer immediately – Early legal intervention is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against aggressive prosecution. A skilled criminal defense attorney can begin building your defense strategy immediately, challenge procedural errors, secure evidence in your favor, and uphold your rights.
We know the high stakes of a criminal case. With decades of experience, former prosecutors on our team, and a history of successfully defending clients across Franklin and beyond, we are prepared to take swift action on your behalf.
Skillfully Handling Criminal Charges of All Types
Whether dealing with a misdemeanor or a serious felony, our experienced legal team can fight for your rights, protect your future, and challenge the prosecution at every turn. We provide strategic and relentless defense representation across various criminal cases, delivering vigorous advocacy.
Offenses our team handles include the following:
- Violent crimes – Charges involving violence carry severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and permanent damage to your reputation. We represent clients accused of assault, domestic violence, manslaughter, and murder, crafting aggressive defense strategies aimed at dismantling the prosecution’s case.
- Sex crimes – Sex crime allegations can be life-altering, leading to potential prison time, registration as a sex offender, and social stigma. We vigorously defend clients against charges such as rape, child pornography offenses, and prostitution-related crimes.
- DUI/OVI and boating under the influence – Ohio has strict laws regarding operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI). A conviction can result in driver’s license suspension, fines, and jail time. Our attorneys challenge the evidence against you, from breathalyzer results to field sobriety tests, to seek reductions or dismissals. We also handle boating under the influence (BUI) cases, which carry similar penalties.
- Drug crimes – Drug-related offenses range from simple possession to large-scale trafficking and manufacturing. A conviction can lead to severe penalties. We fight to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, challenge weak prosecution claims, and pursue alternative sentencing when appropriate.
- White-collar crimes – Non-violent financial crimes can still carry significant penalties, including prison time and substantial fines. Our firm defends clients facing allegations of fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and other white-collar offenses, employing meticulous investigative tactics to build strong defenses.
- Theft and property crimes – Crimes involving stolen or damaged property, such as burglary, shoplifting, and vandalism, can carry criminal and civil consequences. Our attorneys work to mitigate penalties, negotiate plea deals when beneficial, and challenge wrongful accusations.
- Juvenile crimes – A criminal charge can have lasting consequences for a young person’s future. We provide skilled defense in juvenile cases, including underage drinking, minor drug offenses, and school-related incidents, striving for outcomes that protect educational and employment opportunities.
- Family crimes – Domestic disputes and family-related legal matters can lead to criminal charges such as child endangerment, parental kidnapping, and domestic disturbances. Our team understands the sensitive nature of these cases and works to resolve them with minimal long-term consequences.
- Traffic offenses – Even seemingly minor traffic violations can result in fines, driver’s license suspension, and increased insurance rates. We defend clients against charges such as reckless driving, hit and run, and excessive speeding, working to minimize penalties and protect driving privileges.
- Federal crimes – Federal charges are prosecuted aggressively and often have harsh penalties. Our firm has the experience and resources to defend clients against conspiracy, wire fraud, and interstate drug trafficking, carefully navigating the complexities of federal court proceedings.
Misdemeanor cases are handled by the Franklin Municipal Court on Benjamin Franklin Way, while felony charges are transferred to the Warren County Common Pleas Court in Lebanon. We are familiar with the procedures of these courts, allowing us to provide informed, strategic representation tailored to each case.