Felony Attorney in Columbus

Are You Facing Felony Criminal Charges?

If you are facing felony charges, there are several crucial steps and considerations to keep in mind:

• Exercise your constitutional rights by remaining silent and requesting legal counsel immediately after any arrest or accusation.
• Avoid making statements about your case to law enforcement or third parties without advice from a felony criminal defense attorney in Columbus.
• Gather relevant documents and any materials you’ve received from police or at court appearances.
• Understand the risks of conviction, including prison, fines, and the lifelong impact on employment and civil rights.
• Contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible to start building a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Facing felony criminal charges in Columbus can disrupt your present circumstances and long-term opportunities. If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation for a felony, your first steps can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome. Remain calm and remember your constitutional rights—the right to remain silent and the right to counsel. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney, and do not consent to searches or provide statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. Engaging a felony criminal defense attorney in Columbus early in the process offers critical protection, making sure every possible avenue for a positive resolution is fully explored.

Types of Felony Charges Against Which We Defend in Ohio

Although felonies can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, the federal government defines them as crimes punishable by at least one year in prison, up to the death penalty, depending on the offense.

If you have a previous misdemeanor criminal record, that can also lead to a repeat misdemeanor offense being charged as a felony. In addition to lengthy prison sentences, fines, and probation, you may also be subject to restrictions on your right to own a firearm, community service requirements, loss of your privilege to drive, restrictions on financial aid and educational opportunities, and difficulty finding employment opportunities in many careers.

Common examples of criminal activity considered to be felonies can include:

• Federal crimes
• Grand theft
• Manslaughter
• Murder
• Rape

Ohio Felony Classifications & Penalties in Columbus

In Ohio, felony offenses are classified based on the seriousness of the crime and the potential punishment. Ohio has five felony classifications, ranging from the least serious (fifth-degree felony) to the most serious (first-degree felony).

The following breakdown helps clarify felony classifications and their potential consequences in Columbus courts:

• First-Degree Felony: This is the most serious felony offense in Ohio. It includes crimes like murder, aggravated murder, and rape. The punishment for a first-degree felony in Ohio is imprisonment for a term of 3 to 11 years and/or a fine of up to $20,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: This includes offenses such as voluntary manslaughter, kidnapping, and drug trafficking. The punishment for a second-degree felony in Ohio is imprisonment for a term of 2 to 8 years and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: This includes crimes like aggravated assault, robbery, and certain drug offenses. The punishment for a third-degree felony in Ohio is imprisonment for a term of 9 months to 5 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• Fourth-Degree Felony: This includes offenses such as theft of a motor vehicle, forgery, and certain drug offenses. The punishment for a fourth-degree felony in Ohio is imprisonment for a term of 6 to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
• Fifth-Degree Felony: This is the least serious felony offense in Ohio. It includes crimes like breaking and entering, theft, and drug possession. The punishment for a fifth-degree felony in Ohio is imprisonment for a term of 6 to 12 months and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

You could also be sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, certain sex crimes involving minors younger than 13 years of age, kidnapping with sexual motivation, and other serious offenses. These are general guidelines, and the actual punishment for a specific offense can vary depending on the circumstances of the case, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors.

Navigating the Felony Criminal Court Process in Columbus

If you are charged with a felony in Columbus, understanding the typical path your case may take through local courts is critical for making informed decisions. The process often begins with an initial appearance at the Franklin County Municipal Court, where bond and initial conditions may be set. Most felony cases are then transferred to the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas for pretrial motions and trial. Having a dedicated felony criminal defense lawyer in Columbus guide you through each stage can clarify your options and provide a roadmap of what to expect.

The stages of a felony case include arraignment, pretrial hearings, motion practice, plea negotiations, and sometimes trial or sentencing. Each phase brings different challenges, such as negotiating with prosecutors or filing motions to suppress evidence that may have been obtained unlawfully. Your attorney will help you navigate county procedures, court schedules, and local rules. Someone who knows the intricacies of Franklin County and Columbus-area courts can help move your case efficiently and protect your rights at every step.

• Whether to pursue pretrial diversion or intervention programs available in Franklin County
• How to respond to plea offers versus going to trial before a local jury
• How to coordinate appearances and deadlines under Columbus court rules
• Which legal defenses are most likely to succeed based on local precedents
• How to prepare for sentencing hearings in Columbus courts

Since every felony case in Columbus involves a unique set of facts and procedures, working closely with your attorney from the start allows you to proactively address risks and explore all opportunities for a favorable outcome.

Work One-on-One with a Premier Attorney

When working with The Meranda Law Firm LTD, you can expect the following advantages:

• Comprehensive client involvement during each decision-making stage, ensuring your preferences are considered.
• Clear communication about local court procedures, case status, and potential outcomes.
• Hands-on guidance at arraignments, hearings, and throughout plea negotiations or trial preparation.
• Knowledge of Columbus legal standards and familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and court requirements.

You will need the support of a criminal defense legal team that is well-versed in procedure and experienced in negotiation and litigation. The Meranda Law Firm LTD consists of Columbus felony attorneys who are dedicated to protecting your rights and interests. We have over 15 years of legal experience and will work closely with you, involving you in the decision-making process. We ensure that you are kept fully informed and that communication is clear. You can trust our team to provide you with personalized attention and skilled legal representation during this difficult time.

The complex nature of felony cases in Columbus means you may have multiple court appearances at places like the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, which handles most felony prosecutions. By partnering with a felony defense attorney in Columbus from our firm, you will receive guidance through each phase of your case, including arraignment, pretrial hearings, plea negotiations, and trial strategy. We help you understand local court processes, work with you to gather relevant evidence, identify possible defenses, and advocate for your interests at every stage. Knowing the distinct procedures and expectations within Columbus-area courts allows our team to anticipate issues and deliver the local insight your case requires.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Charged with a Felony in Columbus?

After being charged, exercise your right to remain silent and request legal counsel before answering any questions. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney, and keep careful track of any documents or information provided by law enforcement or the court.

How Long Does a Felony Case Typically Take in Franklin County?

The time frame can vary widely, often lasting several months or more depending on the case's complexity, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial or resolves through a plea. Your defense attorney will guide you through what to expect at each stage of the process in the local courts.

Can I Get a Felony Conviction Removed from My Record in Ohio?

Some felony convictions may be eligible for expungement or sealing in Ohio, depending on the nature of the offense and your criminal record. Consult a criminal defense lawyer familiar with Columbus and Franklin County to see if you qualify and for help navigating the expungement process.

Are you worried about how a felony offense may impact your future? Call (614) 707-4239 or contact us online to set up a free, confidential initial consultation.