Painesville Violent Crime Lawyer

Painesville Violent Crime Attorney

Being charged with a violent crime offense can wreak havoc on your life in many ways. Suddenly, your job, your reputation, and other valuable aspects of life may be in jeopardy. Facing jail time and significant fines is only the beginning of the long road ahead. When you contact a Painesville violent crime lawyer, you are taking the first step in having your charges dropped or lessened. It is important to take this step as soon as possible to ensure a favorable outcome.

The Fortress Law Group, LLC, understands the devastating emotions you must be feeling, as well as the overwhelming nature of your situation. Located conveniently at 4124 Erie Street, Willoughby, OH 44094, we are here to serve you in any way we can.

Violent Crime Laws

While violent crime rates decreased by 7.5% in Ohio from 2021 to 2022, there are still many cases reported annually. These cases often include harsh penalties for those who are convicted. In Ohio, violent crimes are categorized as such because they are heinous in nature, often causing harm to other people or resulting in another person’s death.

However, there are laws that allow for actions that are typically categorized as illegal activity to be considered legal if they are performed under certain circumstances. Ohio state law defines such circumstances as self-defense. The law allows individuals to use force if they are defending themselves or someone else against another individual who is attempting to cause them harm.

Violent Crime Penalties

Penalties for violent crimes vary in severity depending on many factors, but primarily the severity of the crime and the criminal history of the accused individual. Most violent crimes are categorized as felonies, which Ohio classifies into five separate degrees:

• For first-degree felony offenses, convicted individuals can receive a sentence of life in prison with or without parole. Examples of such offenses include aggravated burglary, murder, child abuse, and others.
• For second-degree felony offenses, convicted individuals can receive a sentence of up to life in prison with a minimum term of as low as two years. Examples of such offenses include child endangering, certain instances of drug abuse, and others.
• For third-degree felony offenses, convicted individuals can receive a sentence of nine months to three years. Examples of such offenses include extortion, forgery, and others.
• For fourth-degree felony offenses, convicted individuals can receive a sentence of 6-18 months. Examples of such offenses include arson, credit card misuse, certain traffic law violations, and others.
• For fifth-degree felony offenses, convicted individuals can receive a sentence of 6-12 months. Examples of such offenses include unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon, gambling, insurance fraud, and others.

Why Choose Us?

The Fortress Law Group, LLC, brings many unique assets to the table in helping people who have been charged with violent crime offenses. Matthew C. Bangerter, lead attorney, spent years working as an Assistant Prosecutor in Lake County, Ohio. Because of this experience, he understands the mind of a prosecutor and can therefore craft a strong defense that can withstand trial. Regardless of the severity or complexity of your case, the Fortress Law Group, LLC, can help.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Ohio?

Violent crimes in Ohio are classified by the severity of their nature and whether or not specific aggravating circumstances are present. Some examples of violent crimes include homicide, murder, assault, kidnapping, arson, robbery, and others. These are classified as violent because they often involve serious bodily harm or a threat to another person. Such crimes carry harsh penalties for those convicted.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Ohio?

The total cost of a criminal lawyer in Ohio can vary greatly depending on an array of factors. The location of your lawyer can impact their rates and prices significantly, and details such as the severity of your case and the time a lawyer is required to spend on it can also have an impact on the overall price you pay. It is important to discuss prices and payment methods with your lawyer prior to engaging in business with them.

Are Violent Crimes Always Classified as Felonies in Ohio?

In many cases, violent crimes are charged and treated as felony cases in Ohio. Because violent crimes are categorized based on their violent nature and threat to other people, the seriousness of most cases requires a felony classification. However, there are five distinct levels of degrees for felony charges, with first-degree felonies being the most serious and fifth-degree felonies being the least serious. Regardless of the degree, all felonies can result in serious penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Assault in Ohio?

In Painesville, Ohio, the penalty a person receives for being convicted of an assault charge may vary depending on the severity of their crime and their criminal background. However, most charges result in some amount of jail time, fines to pay, and possible probation. While simple assault is often categorized as a first-degree misdemeanor, aggravated assault is considered to be a fourth-degree felony. An experienced defense attorney can help you understand your charge.

Hire a Violent Crime Lawyer: Fortress Law Group, LLC

If you have been charged with a violent crime, it is essential to secure legal help immediately. No matter how far along you are in the process, this step could make all the difference in the outcome of your case. A Painesville criminal defense lawyer can not only help you understand the process but can also walk through each step of it with you, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial. They can also build a strong defense on your behalf, handling all of the legal details.

At the Fortress Law Group, LLC, we have helped many clients navigate the rough water of fighting a violent crime charge. While it may seem that everyone is against you, we are here to defend you in any way we can. We believe you deserve a strong defense case and will work tirelessly to ensure we provide one for you. Contact us today to hire a violent crime lawyer and learn more about how we can help.

Painesville Violent Crime Resources:

• How to File an Appeal in Ohio
• What Offenses and What Felonies Cannot Be Expunged in Ohio?