Columbus Criminal Defense Lawyer

Serious Criminal Charges Demand Robust Criminal Defense Strategies in Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, Pickaway & Licking Counties

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our skilled and knowledgeable Columbus criminal defense attorneys understand that no criminal charge should be taken lightly. We provide determined legal advocacy to protect your rights and interests while fighting tirelessly for your freedom and a positive future ahead.

Our legal team has extensive experience handling various misdemeanor and felony cases including:

• Homicide or Aggravated Assault
• Fraud, White Collar Crimes, and Identity Theft
• Theft & Property Offenses
• Domestic Violence
• Sex Crimes
• Federal & State Drug Crimes
• OVI offenses and Traffic Tickets
• Post-conviction Relief such as Record Sealing or Appeals
• Probation Violations

Understanding the Criminal Defense Process

When you are arrested and placed in police custody, there are specific procedures and protocols that must be followed. Understanding these steps can help you navigate this challenging situation.

1. Miranda Rights

Before any police interrogation begins, officers must read you the court-mandated Miranda Rights, which include:

• The Right to remain silent
• Anything you say can and will be used against you in court
• Right to have an attorney present during questioning
• If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you
• If you begin answering questions without an attorney present, you have the right to stop questioning at any time until you can consult with your Columbus federal criminal lawyer

2. Search Procedures During Arrest

The arresting officer will conduct a thorough search of you and your immediate surroundings. This search serves two primary purposes: ensuring you do not possess any weapons and collecting potential contraband or evidence related to the alleged crime.

3. Personal Property Seizure

During the search process, law enforcement may confiscate all personal belongings and property, including your vehicle, as part of their inventory procedures. Police will document all seized items and provide you with a comprehensive list that you may be required to sign. However, it is crucial to carefully review the accuracy of this inventory document before providing your signature.

4. Booking Process Following Initial Arrest

Following the arrest, you must provide basic personal information including identification details, have photographs taken, and provide fingerprints. The booking process should be completed within a reasonable timeframe, typically within several hours after arrest or by the morning following an overnight arrest. Once booking is complete, you are generally permitted to make a phone call. If you believe you are being detained for an unreasonably long period, contact an Ohio federal crimes attorney who can petition the court for a writ of habeas corpus.

5. Formal Charges Announced Within 72 Hours

The prosecuting attorney will formally announce the charges against you after reviewing information provided by arresting officers and conducting a thorough examination of the case. This announcement must occur within 72 hours of being taken into custody. However, prosecutors are not obligated to maintain these initial charges beyond the 72-hour period. If additional evidence becomes available, the charges may be modified accordingly.

6. Arraignment Proceedings

Your initial court appearance, known as the arraignment, is when you will formally read the charges filed against you. If you have retained legal counsel, your Columbus federal criminal lawyer can advise you on whether to enter a guilty or not guilty plea to the charges. Additionally, you may choose to enter a “no contest” plea, though this option is not always accepted by the presiding judge unless they are satisfied that you are making this decision voluntarily and with full understanding of its implications.

7. Bail Request and Payment Process

If you are detained following your arraignment, you may need to post bail to secure your release before trial begins. The bail amount is determined by the presiding judge and typically reflects the severity of the charges you face. In some cases, bail may not be available as an option, and the judge may deny your request to post bail. An experienced Columbus federal criminal lawyer can help advocate for a reasonable bail amount and argue on your behalf during this critical stage.

If bail is granted and you choose to post it, you are entering into an agreement to appear in court at all scheduled times. This agreement entitles you to a full refund of your bail money upon appearing in court as required. However, failure to appear in court at the designated time will result in forfeiture of your bail money and may lead to the issuance of an arrest warrant.

Therefore, to achieve the most favorable outcome following your arrest, it is essential to seek legal counsel from experienced Ohio federal crimes attorney professionals who can provide effective courtroom representation. Contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group immediately to speak with our seasoned criminal defense attorneys.

Strategic Legal Solutions in Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, Pickaway & Licking Counties

Youngstown Criminal Law Group provides comprehensive, effective, and aggressive legal representation for our clients. Supported by impressive credentials, a proven track record of success, and extensive legal knowledge, our Ohio federal crimes attorney utilizes our experience and reputation to help safeguard our clients’ rights, future prospects, and freedom. When you or someone you care about has been arrested, accused, or charged with a crime in federal or state court, our firm is prepared and available to assist you.

We maintain 24-hour availability, seven days a week, and remain ready to ensure your perspective is heard and properly represented. Call (330) 992-3036 to schedule your complimentary consultation with a Columbus federal criminal lawyer.

Arrested in Ohio? Contact Youngstown Criminal Law Group

When facing criminal charges, you are confronting some of the most difficult and stressful circumstances you may ever experience. Your freedom, reputation, future opportunities, and family relationships are all potentially at risk, whether you are dealing with a serious felony charge or a lesser misdemeanor offense. Following an arrest or traffic stop, it is absolutely critical to retain legal counsel who will advocate for your rights in court and ensure your side of the story receives proper consideration. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, Ohio federal crimes attorneys recognize that good people can find themselves in difficult situations, which is why we provide non-judgmental representation specifically tailored to your unique circumstances.

Our federal crimes attorney team works diligently to secure the best possible outcome for your case. We provide our clients with the comprehensive knowledge necessary to make informed decisions throughout the legal process. We stand by your side consistently, even when circumstances seem overwhelming and challenging.

Contact us at (330) 992-3036 our firm today to discuss your case details and discover how our experienced legal team of Columbus federal criminal lawyers can assist you in achieving a favorable resolution.