A client came to us with a combination of 11 misdemeanor and felony charges in 5 different courts, resulting in multiple convictions. These numerous cases have occurred over the years. She was sentenced to prison and placed on probation in cases. She even violated her parole and was sent back to prison. It was not an easy case, but after hearing from our client, we learned that many of her convictions stemmed from her drug addiction and criminal behavior related to trying to perpetuate her addiction. Our client had sought drug rehabilitation programs, counseling, and professional training to try to change his life. We appreciated everything she did for herself and we vowed to fight for her to give her a second chance at life.
When we analyzed the cases, we found that the deletion waiting period had expired in four of the cases, but not in the fifth case. After discussing options with our client, instead of waiting for the 5th case to be eligible, we tackled 4 of their cases and filed motions to seal their criminal and misdemeanor files. These cases required detailed monitoring, investigation, preparation and filing of court documents, writing detailed reports, affidavits, motions and obtaining supporting evidence (letters of recommendation from counselors, court officials, friends and community professionals). Knowing that there were five different courts with five different judges who would be looking at our client’s extensive criminal record, we spent time with our client to prepare him for his testimony and anticipate possible prosecutorial objections. Of course, when it came time for the court hearing, our client was nervous, but she felt ready and gave an excellent testimony. We have shown the court that based on the evidence, the new law and our client’s testimony, she is a eligible criminal under Ohio law and that she truly deserves the privilege of having her record sealed. The sealing of all beliefs has opened the doors of possibility.
A Return to Indefinite Sentences
Crime sentencing recently changed in Ohio with the passage of the Reagan Tokes Act. The new law subjects all F-1 and F-2 offenses that don’t carry life imprisonment to indefinite prison terms. The indefinite sentencing of F-1 and F-2 crimes is quite complicated. Our criminal lawyers can guide you through the process.
Ohio’s first-degree felonies, known as F-1 offenses, include crimes such as kidnapping, rape, and involuntary manslaughter. F-1 offenses require:
Crimes by class and sentence
Each crime category corresponds to a specific penalty area. The penalty is proportionate to the seriousness of the offence.
More serious crimes are punished with longer prison sentences.
The new law and drug offenses
Many people charged with possession of drugs or narcotics or selling or dealing in a controlled substance will be subject to the new probation requirements. You should consider contacting an experienced Columbus criminal defense attorney if you are accused of drug possession, traffic violations, or any other offense that could be reduced to a fourth or fifth degree felony.
If you or a family member has been arrested for a crime in Ohio and want answers to your questions from some of Columbus’ most accomplished criminal defense attorneys, give us a call at 614-545-5010. Call: (614) 454-5010
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Aggravated assault
Under Ohio Revised Code 2903.12, if you are accused of knowingly causing grievous bodily harm in the heat of passion or a sudden anger with those charges, you could be charged with aggravated assault apply, you must have caused significant bodily harm or harm to another person with a deadly weapon.
A first-time drunk driving (OVI) offense is generally not charged at the felony level. However, if someone is a common OVI offender, three or more OVI convictions in the last ten years can result in OVI felony charges.