Violent Crimes Lawyer in Cincinnati
Crimes of violence frequently are extremely serious offenses that can have long-lasting consequences for alleged offenders. Data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation for Cincinnati in 2017 reported almost 3,000 incidents of violent crime alone. While some of these charges are classified as misdemeanors, a majority of the crimes count as felony offenses.
With Brian Joslyn and his team at Joslyn Law Firm, you can let us take the lead in your case. We know how intimidating it can be to face violent crime charges. You have rights regardless of your circumstances, and we aim to protect them with compassion and fairness.
A person who is convicted of any violent crime faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence and incredibly steep fines. Furthermore, their criminal record will expose them to life-altering consequences for the rest of their lives, well beyond the fulfillment of a sentence behind bars. The social fallout alone can feel overwhelming, but you deserve respect and support.
Our firm is determined to fight for you and a favorable outcome. Our team can comb through evidence and examine all the circumstance surrounding your case to build a strong case against the plaintiff and their team.
Our firm brings years of experience and familiarity with different areas of criminal law to help serve you. Our lead attorney, Brian Joslyn, has dedicated his life to excellence, customer satisfaction, and justice, and it shows. He has awards and memberships from over a dozen organizations, including:
- Membership with the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- A lifetime charter membership from Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys of America
- Membership with the American Association for Justice
- Recognition from the National Trial Lawyers as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer
Our commitment to empowering our clients with knowledge and offering the compassionate representation necessary in a criminal defense case allows us to build strong defenses.
Cincinnati Violent Crimes Lawyer
If you have been charged with any crime of a violent nature, you should connect with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A charge for violent crimes can upend one’s life. Joslyn Law Firm represents clients all over the greater Cincinnati area who have been accused of assault, homicide, manslaughter, murder, or other charges.
You do not want a charge for violent crimes to ruin your life. A strong criminal defense lawyer may be able to reduce your charges or get them dismissed altogether. Brian Joslyn has spent many years defending people against criminal charges, and he and his team will pursue the most favorable outcome to your case.
If you are convicted of a crime of violence, it can drastically affect your employment possibilities, your right to own a firearm, and your ability to receive certain forms of government assistance, as well as other collateral consequences.
Joslyn Law Firm has handled over 20,000 cases and been recognized and awarded locally and nationally by some of the most respected legal organizations. We represent individuals in the greater Cincinnati area and throughout Ohio who have been charged with violent misdemeanors and felony offenses.
No matter what kind of charges you are facing, we are here to defend you because we understand the consequences and penalties that you may be facing. We’ll use our experience to fight for you to help you get your life back. Call our firm now at (513) 399-6289 to get started.
Information Center for Violent Crimes in Cincinnati
- Violent Crime Statutes in Ohio
- Penalties for Violent Crimes in Cincinnati
- Evidence in Cincinnati Violent Crime Charges
- Defenses to Violent Crime Charges in Cincinnati
- Ohio Violent Crime Charges Resources
- Ohio Violent Crime News
- FAQs for Violent Crime Charges in Cincinnati
- Cincinnati Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer
Violent Crime Statutes in Ohio
Some of the most common crimes of violence in Cincinnati their criminal classifications include:
- Aggravated Murder, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.01— First-degree felony punishable by death
- Murder, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.02— Second-degree felony
- Voluntary Manslaughter, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.03— First-degree felony
- Involuntary Manslaughter, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.04— First-degree felony if death is caused during commission of or attempt to commit felony, third-degree felony if death is caused during commission of or attempt to commit misdemeanor
- Reckless Homicide, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.041— Third-degree felony
- Negligent Homicide, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.05— First-degree misdemeanor
- Felonious Assault, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.11— May be classified as second-degree felony or first-degree felony depending on the victim
- Aggravated Assault, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.12— May be classified as fourth-degree felony or third-degree felony depending on the victim
- Assault, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.13— May be classified as first-degree misdemeanor, fifth-degree felony, fourth-degree felony, or third-degree felony, depending on the alleged offender, victim, and location of the alleged offense
- Negligent Assault, Ohio Revised Code § 2903.14— Third-degree misdemeanor
- Kidnapping, Ohio Revised Code § 2905.01— First-degree felony, but may be second-degree felony if the victim is released in a safe place unharmed
- Abduction, Ohio Revised Code § 2905.02— Third-degree felony, but may be second-degree felony if crime was sexually motivated
- Unlawful Restraint, Ohio Revised Code § 2905.03— Third-degree misdemeanor
- Aggravated Robbery, Ohio Revised Code § 2911.01— First-degree felony
- Robbery, Ohio Revised Code § 2911.02— Third-degree felony if crime involves use or threat of immediate use of force, second-degree felony if crime involves deadly weapon or alleged offender inflicts, attempts to inflict, or threatens to inflict physical harm
- Aggravated Burglary, Ohio Revised Code § 2911.11— First-degree felony
Penalties for Violent Crimes in Cincinnati
The possible consequences of a conviction for a crime of violence depend on the specific charge, but maximum penalties by criminal classification include:
- Third-Degree Misdemeanor— Up to 60 days in jail and maximum fine of $500
- Second-Degree Misdemeanor— Up to 90 days in jail and maximum fine of $750
- First-Degree Misdemeanor— Up to 180 days in jail and maximum fine of $1,000
- Fifth-Degree Felony— Up to 12 months in prison and maximum fine of $2,500
- Fourth-Degree Felony— Up to 18 months in prison and maximum fine of $5,000
- Third-Degree Felony— Up to five years in prison and maximum fine of $10,000
- Second-Degree Felony— Up to eight years in prison and maximum fine of $15,000 fines
- First-Degree Felony— Up to 11 years in prison and maximum fine of $20,000
Evidence in Cincinnati Violent Crime Charges
If you are charged with a violent crime in Ohio, the law (Ohio Revised Code § 2901.05) establishes that you are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof rests on the shoulders of the prosecution. This means it is up to the prosecution in your case to provide all the evidence that proves—beyond a reasonable doubt—that you committed the offense with which you have been charged.
The role of your defense attorney is to find evidence that weakens the prosecution’s case—at least enough to create reasonable doubt.
How a Lawyer Works with Evidence
A violent crimes lawyer will investigate your case in search of evidence that will establish this doubt. When you hire our firm to defend you against a violent crime charge, we will:
- Investigate your case, and review how your case was investigated by police
- Seek contradictory points in the prosecution’s case
- Find witnesses who can speak on your behalf
- Cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and expose weak spots in their accounts of events
- Explaining to you and counseling you on any plea bargain offers made by the prosecution
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence against you, especially any evidence obtained through unlawful means, such as by violating your S. Constitution protections against unreasonable searches and seizures (Fourth Amendment), your right to remain silent (Fifth Amendment), and your right to have a lawyer assist in your defense (Sixth Amendment).
The earlier you hire legal counsel, the more time you give your lawyer to tackle all the various aspects of gathering evidence to help you and challenging evidence that can hurt you.
Defenses to Violent Crime Charges in Cincinnati
It is important to remember that police errors and aggressive prosecutors can often result in innocent people being convicted of crimes they did not commit. Every case is different, and there may be circumstances in your own case that are not listed below, but your attorney may be able to get the charges against you reduced or completely dismissed through one of these defenses:
- You were defending another person
- You were defending property
- False allegations
- Lack of evidence
- Misidentification
- Violation of your rights
- Self-defense
If you have been accused of a violent crime, a violent crimes lawyer in Cincinnati will put our many years of experience in criminal law to use in constructing a sound defense strategy for you.
Ohio Violent Crime Charges Resources
Ohio Revised Code – Title 29 Crimes – Procedure
This section of the Ohio Revised Code itemizes all the state’s laws related to crimes. Select chapters within the RC focus on specific types of crimes, including homicide and assault, kidnapping and extortion, and sex offenses, among others. The RC also explains the state’s laws regarding search warrants, arrests, trials, probation, and parole.
Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission Felony Sentencing Guide
This guide explains the purposes and principles of sentencing and explains the factors that courts consider when determining sentencing for an individual convicted of a felony. Some of the factors include the seriousness of the offender’s conduct, the likelihood of recidivism, and whether the offender has a criminal record of prior violent offenses. The guide also outlines community control and financial sanctions that judges can consider when determining an offender’s sentence. Finally, the document explains eligibility for judicial release and mechanisms for sentence reduction.
Office of Criminal Justice Services Crime Statistics and Crime Reports
This website presents crime statistics that Ohio’s law enforcement agencies report to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. The data includes statistics on the state’s reported incidents of murder, robbery, forcible rape, burglary, aggravated assault, motor vehicle theft, larceny-theft, and arson. You can view the data from crimes by county dating as far back as 1990. The page also offers links to other crime-related data provided by the Department of Justice.
Ohio Attorney General Crime Victim Services
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost offers this page to victims of violent crimes. The page explains the state’s victim compensation fund, the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) program, policies regarding victim notification of changes in their alleged offender’s status, and the availability of federal and state grants to victims of violent crimes. Visitors to this page can also download the Ohio Crime Victims’ Rights booklet. Finally, a Live Help feature gives site visitors access to a live chat agent who can offer informal guidance—not legal advice, but basic assistance with a victims’ questions about violent crimes.
Ohio Violent Crime News
January 12, 2021
New Laws in Ohio, Washington, D.C. Eliminate Barriers To Work With a Criminal Record
Ohioans with criminal records will find it easier to obtain occupational licensing, thanks to a bill signed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. Although the new laws widen the potential economic opportunities for those convicted of crimes in the state, some aspects do not benefit violent crime offenders. For example, the law says that state licensing boards cannot consider any conviction more than five years old when evaluating an individual for occupational licensing—unless the conviction involved an offense of a violent, sexual, or fiduciary nature.
January 6, 2021
New Tool to Fight Crime Now Open After Officials Cut Ribbon on Strike Force Headquarters
Cleveland implemented a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF)—one of only 16 cities in the country to do so. Development of the Cleveland Strike Force was put into motion two years ago with an aim to stop violent crime, drugs, and gangs. The task force teams up local, state, and federal authorities to work the streets to accomplish this mission. OCDETF Strike Force will focus on combating violent acts that further illegal drug enterprises.
January 4, 2021
Cleveland’s Rise in Violent Crime Makes National Headlines, City Leaders React
In 2020, Cleveland saw more than 180 homicides, and Councilman Blaine Griffin of Ward 6 told reporters the increase represented “greater social ills.” Griffin underscored the need to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as racial injustice and poverty. Other city leaders also weighed in on the city’s marked rise in violent crimes, a trend that has sparked national conversations, including coverage on the New York Times front page. Councilman Mike Polensek points to the city’s policing failures with regard to accountability, productivity, and professionalism. Griffin said the city needs police who are trained in 21st century policing practices.
FAQs for Violent Crime Charges in Cincinnati
Q: Which types of crimes are considered crimes of a violent nature in Ohio?
A: In Ohio, the following types of crimes are considered to be violent crimes:
- Domestic Violence
- Kidnapping
- Abduction
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Felonious Assault
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Murder / Homicide
- Robbery
- Burglary
Q: What consequences does a person face if convicted of a violent crime in Cincinnati?
A: The consequences for being convicted of a violent crime in Ohio range widely, depending on the nature of the alleged offense and how it is charged. At a minimum, the convicted offender could be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.
Q: Are there defenses against Cincinnati violent crime charges?
A: Yes, there are multiple types of defenses against Cincinnati violent crime charges. These defenses include:
- Lack of evidence
- Self-defense
- Defense of another person
- Defense of property
- False accusations
- Mistaken identity
- Violation of your rights
Q: Can I reduce a violent crime felony to a misdemeanor in Ohio?
A: Depending upon the circumstances of your alleged offense, your lawyer can fight to reduce a violent crime felony to a misdemeanor in Ohio. One way this can happen is through a plea bargain with the prosecutor. This would involve your accepting partial accountability for the charges against you, under the condition that the prosecution reduces the felony charges to misdemeanor charges. Alternatively, if your attorney can show an error made in the investigation of or by the arresting officer in your case.
Q: What should I do if I am charged with a violent crime in Ohio?
A: If you are charged with a violent crime in Ohio, you should seek and hire a lawyer with experience in violent crimes—someone who can protect your rights. Time is of the essence. The sooner you hire a defense lawyer who will investigate your case, the more time you give them to find evidence that might cast doubt on the prosecution’s case against you—perhaps resulting in the charges being reduced or dismissed.
If you are brought in for questioning or are arrested for a violent crime, you must invoke your right to remain silent and immediately demand a lawyer. We will stand by your side during questioning to ensure your rights are not violated.
Q: Will I always go to jail if I am convicted of a violent crime in Ohio?
A: Whether you go to jail or prison for your violent crime depends on how prosecutors charge the offense. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you face anywhere from 60 days to 180 days in jail, along with fines. If you are charged with a felony, you face a prison sentence of anywhere from 12 months to 11 years.
Cincinnati Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer
Brian Joslyn understands the tremendously overwhelming burden that allegations of a crime of violence place on an alleged offender and their family. Joslyn Law Firm strives to treat every client with the utmost compassion and works tirelessly to obtain the most favorable outcome to such cases.
We will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case to develop the strongest possible defenses. Take the first step toward justice by calling right now to get a case review during a free, confidential consultation at (513) 399-6289.
