Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer in Cincinnati, OH
Dedicated Cincinnati Criminal Defense Lawyers
Are you facing misdemeanor charges? Don’t navigate the legal system alone! Even a misdemeanor conviction can have serious consequences, including fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been charged with a crime or believe you will be soon, contact the skilled criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams. Our dedicated legal team fights for case dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and other favorable outcomes.
Being arrested does not mean you will be convicted. No matter the severity of the charges against you, our experienced attorneys will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
Please contact our Cincinnati office at (513) 929-9333 for a FREE, personalized review of your case.
Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Represents Clients Across Southern Ohio & Kentucky
Our team of highly experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams, LLC is proud to offer highly experienced representation to our clients. We are proud to serve clients in the following areas:
Misdemeanor offenses are considered less serious than felonies, even though the punishment is still harsh and the offense is still devastating to the victim. If you have recently been accused of committing a misdemeanor offense, The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams, LLC is here to help protect your rights. A misdemeanor conviction is punishable by up to six months in jail. OVI or DUI punishments are the exception in that the defendant can receive more than six months of jail for a conviction.
If convicted, you could be facing up to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. OVI or DUI offenders are subjected to an increased maximum fine amount. There is no guaranteed right to a trial by jury for a misdemeanor offense. Rather, the defendant must request a jury trial. Offenders, if indigent, are not automatically afforded an attorney unless jail time is a possibility.
Key Characteristics of Misdemeanors in Ohio:
Penalties:
- Jail time: Misdemeanors are typically punishable by up to 180 days in jail (for a first-degree misdemeanor), depending on the class of the offense.
- Fines: Fines for misdemeanors can range from $150 for minor offenses up to $1,000 for more serious offenses.
- Probation: In some cases, offenders may be sentenced to probation instead of jail time. Probation may include community service, attending classes (like anger management), or regular check-ins with a probation officer.
Misdemeanor Classes:
Misdemeanors in Ohio are divided into five classes based on their severity:- First-degree misdemeanor (M1) – The most serious misdemeanor, with up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.
- Second-degree misdemeanor (M2) – Up to 90 days in jail and up to $750 in fines.
- Third-degree misdemeanor (M3) – Up to 60 days in jail and up to $500 in fines.
- Fourth-degree misdemeanor (M4) – Up to 30 days in jail and up to $250 in fines.
- Minor misdemeanor (MM) – No jail time, but fines up to $150.
Examples of Misdemeanors:
Misdemeanors in Ohio can include a wide range of offenses, such as:- Assault
- Domestic violence
- Driving under the influence (DUI/OVI)
- Theft (under $1,000)
- Disorderly conduct
- Drug possession (small amounts)
- Public indecency
Criminal Record:
Although misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, a conviction will still appear on your criminal record, which can affect job prospects, housing, and other areas of life. However, some misdemeanors may be eligible for expungement (sealing of the record) after a certain period.Legal Process:
- Arrest: If you are arrested for a misdemeanor, you will likely have a court appearance where your case is discussed.
- Court Proceedings: Ohio law provides for legal defenses and plea negotiations, and an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you secure a favorable outcome.
- Diversion Programs: For certain first-time offenders, Ohio offers diversion programs that may allow for charges to be dismissed after completing certain requirements.
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What Are the Different Classes of Misdemeanors in Ohio?
In Ohio, misdemeanors are classified into five levels based on the severity of the offense. Each class carries different penalties, including possible jail time and fines. Here’s a breakdown:
1. First-Degree Misdemeanor (M1)
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 180 days in jail
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Examples:
- Assault
- Domestic violence (without prior convictions)
- DUI/OVI (first offense)
- Theft (less than $1,000)
2. Second-Degree Misdemeanor (M2)
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 90 days in jail
- Fines: Up to $750
- Examples:
- Criminal damaging
- Resisting arrest
- Obstructing official business
3. Third-Degree Misdemeanor (M3)
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 60 days in jail
- Fines: Up to $500
- Examples:
- Loitering for prostitution
- Misuse of 911
- Negligent assault
4. Fourth-Degree Misdemeanor (M4)
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 30 days in jail
- Fines: Up to $250
- Examples:
- Public indecency
- Disorderly conduct (persisting after warning)
- Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia
5. Minor Misdemeanor (MM)
- Maximum Penalty: No jail time
- Fines: Up to $150
- Examples:
- Speeding and minor traffic violations
- Disorderly conduct (first offense)
- Possession of small amounts of marijuana (under decriminalized limits)
Other Factors That Can Affect Penalties
- Prior Convictions – Repeat offenses may lead to harsher penalties or felony upgrades.
- Aggravating Factors – If the offense involves violence, a weapon, or a vulnerable victim, penalties may be more severe.
- Diversion Programs – Some first-time offenders may qualify for programs that result in dismissal upon completion.
DUI Defense & Criminal Defense in Ohio and Kentucky
At The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams, we are dedicated to defending people across the Cincinnati metropolitan area who are facing state and federal criminal charges. If you have been arrested or are awaiting a court date in Ohio, please contact us today to discuss the best possible outcome for your case.
Do I Have to Go to Court for a Misdemeanor in Ohio?
- Mandatory Appearance: If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor, especially more serious ones (like first-degree misdemeanors), you will generally be required to appear in court for at least one hearing.
- Initial Arraignment: This is the first court appearance after an arrest, where you’ll be formally charged, and the court will ask how you plead (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
- Pretrial Hearings and Trials: If you plead not guilty, there will likely be pretrial hearings to discuss the case and explore plea deals or other options. If the case goes to trial, you will need to be present for the trial.
Facing Minor Misdemeanor Charges?
A conviction for a minor misdemeanor is not subject to jail time. The maximum fine for a minor misdemeanor is $150.00, plus court costs and any restitution if insurance was not available. Traffic offenses are considered minor misdemeanors. However, in some cases, a misdemeanor may result in a driver's license suspension anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. Therefore, it is important to speak to an attorney regardless of how minor the misdemeanor may seem. Laws are subject to change and penalties may be increased at any time. If arrested for any crime, it is important to contact an attorney to discuss your options.
Are you or someone you know facing criminal charges?
If you are facing criminal charges, you need to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams is recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and is one of U.S. News' Best Law Firms. Please contact us online or call our Cincinnati office directly at 513-929-9333 to schedule your free consultation.
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