Toledo Assault Attorney

Why Choose Patituce & Associates for Your Assault Case?

Choose the law firm that refuses to lose:

• We get results. At Patituce & Associates, we have a long-standing history of delivering life-changing outcomes for our clients. Our firm’s reputation is built on more than just our extensive experience or depth of knowledge. We are truly dedicated to making a tangible, positive difference with results in the lives of those we represent. If you’re facing an assault charge, we understand that this is more than just a legal issue—it is a matter that directly influences your life, your liberty, and your future. Our comprehensive understanding of criminal law allows us to develop innovative, personalized defense strategies for each case.
• Certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Our founding attorney, Joseph Patituce, stands out in the legal field with the distinguished honor of being a Board Certified Criminal Trial Specialist. This certification, granted by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, places him among a select group of legal professionals recognized for their exceptional competence and deep understanding of the law. Joseph’s exceptional credentials embody our firm’s commitment to providing top-notch legal representation. His wisdom resonates in every case we undertake, reinforcing our dedication to defending our clients’ rights and relentlessly working towards the best possible outcomes.

How Are Assault Charges Defined in Ohio?

Toledo Assault AttorneyOhio state statutes provide a gradient of different assault charges to apply to a broad range of different circumstances. What these charges have in common, however, is that they can result in punishing fines and jail/prison time if a guilty verdict is reached.

Different forms of assault charges in Ohio include:

• Assault (O.R.C. 2903.13) – first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail
• Negligent Assault (O.R.C. 2903.14) – third-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $500 and 60 days in jail
• Aggravated Assault (O.R.C. 2903.12) – fourth-degree felony punishable by up to $5,000 in fines and six years in prison
• Felonious Assault (O.R.C. 2903.11) – second-degree felony punishable by up to $20,000 in fines and eight years in prison
• Vehicular Assault (O.R.C. 2903.08) – fourth-degree felony punishable by up to five-year license suspension and 18 months in prison
• Aggravated Vehicular Assault (O.R.C. 2903.09) – third-degree felony punishable by up to 10-year license suspension and five years in prison
• Vehicular Manslaughter (O.R.C. 2903.06) – second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a three-year license suspension and 90 days in jail
• Menacing (O.R.C. 2903.22) – fourth-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $250 in fines and 30 days in jail
• Aggravated Menacing (O.R.C. 2903.21) – first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail
• Menacing by Stalking (O.R.C. 2903.211) – first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail

Your Rights & What to Do After an Arrest for Assault

If police arrest you for assault in Toledo, you have specific rights that protect your interests. You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to fair legal process. Police in Toledo often try to question people after an arrest or may seek to search property. Clearly assert your right to legal counsel and do not make statements until you speak with a defense attorney.

Acting quickly helps improve your defense options. Document important details about the incident, such as times, witnesses, and any available video evidence. Contact a defense attorney who is familiar with Lucas County and municipal court practices. We support clients through initial court events and guide them on issues like bond hearings and no-contact orders. Fast action also preserves key evidence and lets us get started on your defense right away.

Common Defenses to Assault Charges

The facts and evidence often shape available defenses in an assault case. Potential defenses may include acting in self-defense, protecting another person, claiming lack of intent, or questioning the credibility of witnesses. We approach each case by examining surveillance footage, investigating evidence, and identifying procedural errors made by law enforcement.

Lucas County judges review each defense based on what the evidence shows and what witnesses say. Our familiarity with prosecutors' strategies in Toledo lets us challenge the government’s case in ways that meet local court expectations. Talking with a defense attorney who knows the Toledo legal process is the best way to decide on the strategy that fits your needs.

No Assault Case is Hopeless

Facing assault charges can feel daunting, with the specific circumstances of your case perhaps leading you to believe that even the most capable attorney may not be able to help.

Whether you’ve been arrested for a felony or a misdemeanor assault offense, scheduling a free consultation with a lawyer should be a top priority to ensure the safeguarding of your rights and freedoms.

At Patituce & Associates, we’re here to illustrate how just a brief, 10-minute discussion about your case with an experienced assault defense attorney can significantly improve your situation.

Our Toledo assault lawyers fully comprehend the weight of what you’re facing. Take the pivotal first step in your defense by contacting us to discover how we can represent you.

FAQs

Will I have to appear in court for every assault charge?

Many assault cases in Toledo involve scheduled court dates. Depending on the charge and stage of your case, an attorney can sometimes appear on your behalf for certain procedural hearings, but most defendants will need to attend important court events in person.

Can an assault charge be dropped or reduced?

Whether a charge may be dropped or reduced depends on the facts, available evidence, and negotiations with the prosecutor. Your attorney can assess the case and work to find opportunities to challenge the accusation or seek a different result when possible.

How long does an assault case take in Toledo courts?

An assault case in Toledo can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on factors such as the complexity of the evidence, the court’s schedule, and whether the case goes to trial. Your lawyer will keep you informed about the timeline as the process moves forward.