Willoughby Violent Crime Lawyer

Willoughby Violent Crime Attorney

While some crimes do not involve force or acts of aggression, many do inflict physical harm on the victim. In Ohio, violent crimes bring the most serious consequences.

If you have been charged with a violent crime, then you have the right to retain legal counsel. Though you may face jail time and other penalties, there are effective ways to build a defense. The right attorney will thoroughly examine the details of your case and work tirelessly in pursuit of a verdict in your favor.

Rather than resign yourself to losing your freedom and your livelihood, trust the team at Fortress Law Group to intervene and be your advocate.

Examples of Violent Crimes

When one thinks of violent crimes, murder is often the first one that comes to mind. While this certainly sits at the top of the list, there are other examples that fit in this category. Some of the most common violent crimes include:

• Murder (Homicide)
• Kidnapping
• Assault
• Voluntary Manslaughter
• Involuntary Manslaughter
• Robbery
• Forcible Rape
• Domestic Violence

Most violent crimes are felonies, ranging from fifth- to first-degree. Murder is in its own category of seriousness. Some violent crimes are first-degree misdemeanors.

At Fortress Law Group, we defend good people accused of bad things. If you face any of these or other violent crime charges, call our team today to schedule a case evaluation.

Punishments For Violent Crimes In Ohio

As one would expect, the consequences of a violent crime conviction bring prison time and fines. The least serious offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, which can include an assault, depending on the age of the victim and where the offense occurred. It carries a term of 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. Fifth-degree felonies have a punishment of 6 to 12 months in jail and fines reaching up to $2,500.

Offenders guilty of a fourth-degree violent crime felony could spend up to 18 months in jail, with a fine of $5,000. A third-degree felony can include robbery, assault, or involuntary manslaughter. The penalties are 1 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Second- and first-degree felonies can include kidnapping, assault, voluntary manslaughter, and robbery. Those guilty of this offense can receive a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years for second-degree charges and 3 to 10 years for first-degree felonies. The fines can be up to $15,000 or $20,000, respectively. A murder charge can result in life in prison or even carry a death sentence.

Presumption Of Innocence For Violent Crime Charges In Ohio

Be aware that under Ohio law, a person with a violent crime charge is presumed innocent until the prosecution can prove the individual guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. To prove your guilt, the prosecution will gather and present evidence against you, implicating you in the alleged crime. The judge will dismiss the charges if the prosecution cannot present such evidence.

To build a defense for you, a Willoughby violent crime attorney will examine the evidence collected by the other side. It is possible that some evidence should be inadmissible or that the prosecution or law enforcement obtained it illegally. Moreover, illegal searches and seizures can be a defense option your attorney will consider on your behalf.

Contact Fortress Law Group today for a case evaluation to discuss building a defense strategy.