While some crimes do not involve force or acts of aggression, many do inflict physical harm on the victim. In Ohio, violent crimes bring the most serious consequences.
If you have been charged with a violent crime, then you have the right to retain legal counsel. Though you may face jail time and other penalties, there are effective ways to build a defense. The right attorney will thoroughly examine the details of your case and work tirelessly in pursuit of a verdict in your favor.
Rather than resign yourself to losing your freedom and your livelihood, trust the team at Fortress Law Group to intervene and be your advocate.
When one thinks of violent crimes, murder is often the first one that comes to mind. While this certainly sits at the top of the list, there are other examples that fit in this category. Some of the most common violent crimes include:
Most violent crimes are felonies, ranging from fifth- to first-degree. Murder is in its own category of seriousness. Some violent crimes are first-degree misdemeanors.
At Fortress Law Group, we defend good people accused of bad things. If you face any of these or other violent crime charges, call our team today to schedule a case evaluation.
As one would expect, the consequences of a violent crime conviction bring prison time and fines. The least serious offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, which can include an assault, depending on the age of the victim and where the offense occurred. It carries a term of 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. Fifth-degree felonies have a punishment of 6 to 12 months in jail and fines reaching up to $2,500.
Offenders guilty of a fourth-degree violent crime felony could spend up to 18 months in jail, with a fine of $5,000. A third-degree felony can include robbery, assault, or involuntary manslaughter. The penalties are 1 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Second- and first-degree felonies can include kidnapping, assault, voluntary manslaughter, and robbery. Those guilty of this offense can receive a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years for second-degree charges and 3 to 10 years for first-degree felonies. The fines can be up to $15,000 or $20,000, respectively. A murder charge can result in life in prison or even carry a death sentence.
Be aware that under Ohio law, a person with a violent crime charge is presumed innocent until the prosecution can prove the individual guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. To prove your guilt, the prosecution will gather and present evidence against you, implicating you in the alleged crime. The judge will dismiss the charges if the prosecution cannot present such evidence.
To build a defense for you, a Willoughby violent crime attorney will examine the evidence collected by the other side. It is possible that some evidence should be inadmissible or that the prosecution or law enforcement obtained it illegally. Moreover, illegal searches and seizures can be a defense option your attorney will consider on your behalf.
Contact Fortress Law Group today for a case evaluation to discuss building a defense strategy.
Extensive Experience – Established in 2009, our firm has represented thousands of clients in various kinds of criminal cases. Our criminal defense attorneys make sure each client is diligently represented and protected throughout the trial.
Professional and Reliable – We value the trust and confidence each client gives us. The criminal justice system is complex, but we are dedicated to guiding you throughout the process to ensure your rights are protected.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense – Our team of attorneys is knowledgeable and up to date with all the relevant case laws and procedural rules in court and will ensure all your bases are covered.
Flexible Consultation Times – Facing a criminal charge is a serious matter. You must communicate with a lawyer as soon as possible. That’s why our communication lines – online and via phone – are available for clients to reach out to us at any time.
At Fortress Law Group, we take violent crime charges with the utmost seriousness and care. You have rights, and we will work diligently to protect your interests. There are several possible defense tactics that we can use to try to get your case dropped or to have the charges reduced.
Self-defense or justification can be defenses against murder or manslaughter charges. This may also work against assault charges. Similarly, you may have acted to defend someone else and injured or killed someone in the process. There also could have been mistaken identity, or someone may have planted evidence to incriminate you.
You should always seek the knowledge and strategic ability of an experienced violent crime attorney if you have been charged with a violent crime. Our team has a proven track record of success in helping our clients achieve a good outcome.
We will thoroughly look at all pieces of the evidence against you and in your favor. We will work with you to build an effective case so you can have peace of mind.
Now is the right time to speak with our Willoughby violent crime attorney about your rights and your options. Contact us today for a case evaluation to get started.
We defend good people accused of bad things.
Violent crimes like assault or manslaughter are some of the most serious criminal charges in Ohio, so you’ll need a competent violent crimes lawyer to argue your case and protect your rights.
Potential penalties depend on the specific charge against you and whether Ohio law classifies the offense as a misdemeanor or a felony. For instance:
Depending on your case, your violent crimes lawyer may suggest several possible defense lines. First, your attorney will scrutinize every bit of evidence the prosecution brings against you, looking for inadmissible or unlawfully obtained evidence.
Your lawyer may also build a defense strategy based on the circumstances of the violent incident, for example, acting in self-defense, out of fear, or to protect others.
Choosing a jury trial vs. a plea bargain is a critical decision you’ll need to make with your lawyer’s help. While a trial involves legal risks, it’s usually the preferable option if you know the accusations against you are false.
In other cases, you may accept a plea deal—that is, plead guilty in exchange for reduced charges and/or a less severe sentence. Keep in mind that many violent crime convictions are ineligible for expungement in Ohio and may affect your entire future, including career prospects and reputation.
Choosing the right violent crime lawyer can determine the outcome of your case. Your violent crime defense attorney can protect your rights, advise you on the optimal legal defense strategy in your circumstances, and represent you at trial.
Attorney Matthew C. Bangerter of Fortress Law Group in Cleveland Metro leverages his background as a former prosecutor, his deep knowledge of DNA and forensics, and his courtroom experience to defend good people accused of bad things. To schedule a case review with violent crimes lawyer Matthew Bangerter, call his offices at (440) 340-1740.
At Fortress Law Group, we want to provide you with a clear understanding of the criminal charges you may be facing and their implications for your future. We maintain a collection of resources to educate and prepare you for effective coordination with your legal team.
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