Ohio Felony & Misdemeanor Crime

If you have been charged with either a felony or a misdemeanor the Ohio criminal defense lawyers at Yavitch & Palmer, Co., L.P.A. will represent your best interests and protect your legal rights. Ohio criminal law can be complex so having an experienced criminal lawyer in your corner is a smart idea.

Difference Between Felonies & Misdemeanors in Ohio

Crimes are divided into two separate groups based on their respective punishment. In Ohio, the maximum penalty for a misdemeaor is up to 6 months in imprisonment and/or a $1,000 fine.  Felonies are far more severe and can result in imprisonment in the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. In some states there are crimes where the punishment could go either way depending on the discretion of the prosecutor. Additionally, there are crimes that carry only a fine as a punishment and those are called infractions. Of course a judge has the right to re-classify a particular crime if he decides to change the severity of the punishment.

The classification of a charge as either an Ohio felony crime or an Ohio misdemeanor crime directly affects when you would stand trial after you have been charged. For example:

• Minor misdemeanor – 30 days
• 3rd or 4th degree misdemeanor – 45 days
• 1st or 2nd degree misdemeanor – 90 days
• Felony – 275 days

Ohio criminal law also allows you to exercise your right for a jury trial for both felony and misdemeanor offenses so retaining a qualified Ohio criminal defense attorney as soon as possible would be beneficial.

The seasoned Ohio criminal defense attorneys practicing at the Ohio law firm of Yavitch & Palmer Co., L.P.A. will aggressively fight for your legal rights and explain the Ohio criminal law process. We welcome the opportunity to hear the specifics of your criminal case and share the legal options that would be in your best interest.

When you have been charged with a crime, retaining a skilled criminal defense lawyer from the start is vital to your case. Call the Columbus Ohio criminal defense attorneys of Yavitch & Palmer at 877-221-0913 or via our web contact form to arrange an appointment to discuss protecting your rights and preserving your freedom.