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Ohio Domestic Violence Lawyer Smart Strategy. Fearless Defense.

Ohio Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Helping You Navigate Serious Criminal Charges in Ohio

Facing domestic violence charges can be one of the most challenging experiences a person can go through. Not only can a conviction impact your reputation and put your future at risk, but it can also have a profound impact on your relationships with loved ones. At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we understand the weight and seriousness of these charges, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence.

Our attorneys have successfully defended clients in domestic violence cases throughout Ohio, and we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. With over 400 jury trials under our belts, we have the experience and expertise you need to protect your future. Our Ohio domestic violence lawyers will fight for you, today.

What Is Domestic Violence Under Ohio Law?

Domestic violence is a serious crime that involves violence or threatened violence against a family or household member. In Ohio, a person commits domestic violence when he or she:

  • Knowingly or recklessly causes physical harm to the victim.
  • Threatens a family or household member with physical force, causing that person to fear an imminent physical attack.

A domestic violence incident can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. Felony convictions typically carry higher penalties than misdemeanors, but both types of crimes could have a significant impact on your future.

Who Counts as a Family Member?

What sets domestic violence apart from other types of violent crimes is the relationship between the people involved in the incident. In Ohio, a family member or household member refers to any of the following people who reside or have resided with the alleged offender:

  • A spouse, former spouse, or a romantic partner with whom the offender has resided in the last five years
  • The offender’s child
  • The offender’s parent or foster parent
  • The natural parent of the offender’s biological child
  • An extended family member of the offender
  • A parent or child of the offender’s spouse, former spouse, or romantic partner
  • An extended family member of the offender’s spouse, former spouse, or romantic partner

Call Patituce & Associates for a Free Consultation

If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need a lawyer on your side. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your next steps.

Contact Patituce & Associates, LLC at (440) 771-1175 for a free and confidential consultation with our domestic violence defense attorneys.

We Refuse to Lose Your Case Deserves a Customized Defense Strategy

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.

  • Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)

    Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.

  • Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.

    Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.

  • Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA

    Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.

  • Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County

    Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.

  • Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN

    Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.

  • Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles

    Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.

Can a Victim Request to Drop Domestic Violence Charges?

One common misconception about domestic violence cases is that the victim can request to drop the charges. However, this is not the case. Once a domestic violence charge has been issued, the case is taken over by the prosecutor’s office, and the decision to proceed with the charges is ultimately up to the prosecuting attorney assigned to the case.

Unfortunately, a victim cannot request to drop domestic violence charges, even if he or she made a mistake or misinterpreted the situation. In some cases, the prosecutor may be willing to drop the charges if the victim refuses to testify, but this is not always the case.

Penalties for an Ohio Domestic Violence Conviction

If a person is convicted of domestic violence in Ohio, he or she can face serious legal consequences, including jail time, fines, and other penalties. These penalties depend on the severity of the offense, the injury caused, and whether the alleged offender has any prior domestic violence convictions.

Depending on the circumstances of the case, the court may levy the following possible penalties:

  • For a 3rd degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500
  • For a 2nd degree misdemeanor, up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $750
  • For a 1st degree misdemeanor, up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
  • For a 5th degree felony, six to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $2,500
  • For a 4th degree felony, six to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
  • For a 3rd degree felony, nine months to three years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000

If an alleged offender knew the victim was pregnant, the court is required to impose a minimum sentence of six months or one year, depending on whether the incident involved harm or a threat and whether the victim’s unborn child was harmed. The offender may also be required to pay restitution for any expenses that result from the crime, including property damage, the cost of medical care, or counseling services.

How Can a Domestic Violence Attorney Help Your Case?

Being charged with domestic violence can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. The consequences of a conviction can be severe, including jail time, fines, and restrictions on your rights and freedoms. Working with an Ohio domestic violence defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we have the experience and resources necessary to provide you with the legal representation you need. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Our Ohio criminal defense attorneys can support your case in several ways, such as the following:

  • Providing you with objective legal guidance: Having objective legal guidance during this time is critical for ensuring that your rights and future are protected. Your lawyer will provide you with clear, objective advice on the best way to proceed.
  • Offering you emotional support: Having an experienced lawyer by your side during this time is important for ensuring that you have all of the support and emotional reassurance that you need during this difficult time.
  • Collecting important evidence: Your lawyer will have worked with many other people who have domestic violence charges. He or she will be able to conduct a thorough investigation into your case, collect necessary and relevant evidence, and build a compelling defense on your behalf.
  • Protecting your future: Without a reputable lawyer by your side, you may be risking your future and your reputation. Your attorney will be by your side to guide and support you through each step of the process and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
  • Effectively representing you at trial: If your case gets taken to court, having a reputable lawyer to represent you is extremely important. Your lawyer will effectively present your case to protect your rights and your future.
  • We Know the Legal System

    Our criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and local courts, helping you navigate your case efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.

  • We Give You Peace of Mind

    Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. With our team on your side, you can focus on your life while an experienced professional handles your defense.

  • We Fight For Your Rights

    Police and prosecutors sometimes push the limits of the law. We work to protect your rights and prevent unconstitutional evidence from being used against you.

  • We Build A Strategic Defense

    Fighting criminal charges requires a strong strategy. Our experienced team builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.

  • We Work to Mitigate Consequences

    One of the main benefits of hiring our Ohio criminal defense attorneys is our ability to help reduce the potential consequences of a conviction.

Ready For A Team That Won't Back Down?

Available 24/7

At Patituce & Associates, we're always ready to take your call! Give us a call at (440) 771-1175 or fill out the form below to contact one of our team members.

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