Springfield Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being charged with a crime is stressful and may leave you confused about how to proceed. Some people make the mistake of trying to represent themselves. Even in cases that are seemingly “easy,” such as a simple misdemeanor or when you plan to plead guilty, it is imperative to speak with a Springfield criminal defense lawyer first. A skilled attorney may be able to get the charges reduced or even dismissed in some situations. You should never plead guilty without letting an attorney at least attempt to negotiate a deal.

Criminal Charges for Which a Criminal Defense Attorney can Represent You

There are many different types of offenses for which an Ohio criminal defense attorney can represent you. These include, but are not limited to:

• Assault
• Battery
• Domestic violence
• Underage drinking
• Suspended driver’s license
• Drug charges
• OVI/DUI charges
• Sexual assault
• Sex crimes
• Theft
• Robbery
• White collar crime
• Burglary
• Manslaughter
• Homicide

If you are convicted of a crime in Springfield, you will be facing immediate penalties as handed down in your sentence, but you will also have long-term consequences to deal with. Having a criminal record can harm your chances of getting certain jobs, renting an apartment, qualifying for a loan, and more.

Springfield Criminal Offense Penalties

If you are convicted of a crime in Ohio, the penalties will vary depending on what type of charges you are facing and how the crime is classified. There are two main categories — misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses and carry a lighter sentence, and felonies, which are the most serious and have the longest prison sentences and biggest fines.

Within the felony and misdemeanor classifications, there are tiered levels. Some of these include:

• Fourth-degree misdemeanor — Up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of $250
• First-degree misdemeanor — Up to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000
• Fifth-degree felony — six to 12 months in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500
• First-degree felony — three to 11 years in prison and a maximum fine of $20,000

Take note that homicide and other serious offenses are not bound by the tiered classifications of felonies. The court has the discretion to determine the specific penalties for these offenses, which could be a life sentence without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty.

Retaining a Springfield Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal offense in Ohio, contact the Comunale Law Firm to schedule a consultation. Let one of our skilled criminal attorneys help prepare the best defense possible.