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Criminal defense work covers a wide spectrum — from a first-time misdemeanor that can be resolved with a diversion program to felony charges where the difference between attorneys is measured in years of incarceration. The right attorney understands the specific Ohio statute you're charged under, knows the prosecutors and judges in your county, and is willing to push back hard on weak evidence rather than just walking you toward a plea.
First-offense or repeat OVI in Ohio. Includes administrative license suspension hearings (BMV) and the criminal case itself — they run on different tracks with different deadlines.
Charges ranging from misdemeanor possession to first-degree felony trafficking. Diversion programs, intervention in lieu of conviction (ILC), and motion practice on search-and-seizure issues.
Misdemeanor assault, felonious assault, domestic violence. Ohio's DV charge has firearm-rights consequences even on a first conviction. Protection-order issues frequently overlap.
Fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, tax offenses, healthcare fraud. Often involves federal jurisdiction, grand jury proceedings, and complex motion practice.
Petty theft, grand theft, burglary, robbery, receiving stolen property. Restitution negotiations and diversion options for first-time offenders.
Sealing of an Ohio criminal record after a waiting period. Significant impact on employment, housing, and licensing — worth doing once eligible.
Most criminal defense work is flat-fee, often with separate fees for trial. These are typical Ohio ranges.
| Matter type | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor defense (non-OVI) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| OVI / DUI (first offense) | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| OVI plus BMV administrative hearing | Adds $500 – $1,500 |
| Felony defense (non-violent, no trial) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Felony defense (with trial) | $15,000 – $50,000+ |
| White-collar / federal defense | $15,000 – $100,000+ |
| Expungement / record sealing | $750 – $2,000 |
Do not give a statement to police beyond identifying yourself. You have a constitutional right to remain silent and to an attorney, and both apply immediately. Politely say "I want to speak to a lawyer" and stop talking. Cases are routinely won or lost in the first 48 hours based on what someone says — or doesn't say — to police. The same applies to text messages, voicemails, and social media: assume anything you write or say will be used.
What you're charged with, the date of your next hearing, where you are in the process. Mark urgency clearly. We treat criminal cases as time-sensitive by default.
An OVI in Franklin County is a different practical case than the same OVI in Cuyahoga County — local-court familiarity matters. We match by offense type and your county.
Many criminal defense attorneys offer a free or low-cost initial consultation. Bring everything: charging documents, court dates, any police reports you have.
Ohio criminal defense resources to help you understand charges, deadlines, and your rights.
Criminal charges — even misdemeanors — can have permanent consequences. Here's when representation is essential. Read the guide →
What to bring, what to ask, and how attorney-client privilege protects you from day one. Read the guide →
Criminal arraignments in Ohio begin within days of arrest. Don't wait to get matched with an attorney. See Ohio deadlines →
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