In some cases, a criminal conviction can have consequences beyond fines, imprisonment, or other criminal penalties. Civil penalties may also apply. An individual injured during the commission of a crime might obtain a monetary judgment against the criminal in civil court. However, some criminal convictions involving crimes of moral turpitude can result in the loss… Read more
Understanding First-Degree Murder
In plain and simple terms, murder is the unlawful act of killing another person with malice aforethought. This is the intent to kill or harm someone. It can also mean an extreme or reckless disregard for human life. In a court of law, there are different degrees of murder. The degree depends on the action… Read more
How to Deal with an Outstanding Warrant for Your Arrest
So, you learned that there is an outstanding warrant for your arrest. You probably have a lot of questions. What exactly is a warrant? How did you get a warrant for your arrest? How did it become outstanding? What are the rules of warrants in Ohio? What steps should you take next to deal with… Read more
Things Cops Do That Are Illegal: What a Police Officer Can and Cannot Do
A police officer should be seen as a beacon of safety in the community. They have special privileges to help them do this. However, sometimes cops abuse these rights and break the law. It can be hard for citizens to respect police officers when they see some actions they take as unlawful. It is important… Read more
What You Need to Know About DUI Classes in Ohio
A DUI (driving under the influence) is a criminal offense for driving a motor vehicle under the influence while impaired by alcohol or other drugs. At least one in three people will be involved in a DUI related crash at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, it is an offense that carries a high fatality… Read more
What if I Don’t Show Up For Jury Duty?
If you’re like most people, receiving a jury summons in the mail is not something you look forward to. However, juries serve a critical function in the legal process. Being on a jury gives you the opportunity to learn more about the justice system and fulfill your civic duty. Further, it is important not to… Read more
What Happens If You Get an Out of State Warrant for Arrest?
An outstanding arrest warrant is serious and requires your immediate attention. Even if the warrant was issued by another state, you can be arrested here in Ohio and vice versa. Warrants never expire, which means that you could be detained and extradited to the state where it was issued at any time. But, keep in… Read more
What Does “Sexual Imposition” Mean in the State of Ohio?
Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.06, defines the criminal offense of “Sexual Imposition” as “sexual contact,” which is defined a touching of another person’s erogenous area. For further clarity, erogenous areas constitute the thigh, genitals, buttocks, pubic region, or female breast. What is a “Sexual Imposition” Charge? Consequently, one of the following five circumstances must apply… Read more
Can a Police Officer Pat You Down During a Traffic Stop in Ohio?
Imagine you just got pulled over at the side of the interstate for going 75mph in a 65mph zone. The weather is cold and unpleasant. The officer who pulled you over already has your license. Now he asks that you step out of your vehicle so he can pat you down. You might wonder if… Read more
What is the age of consent for sex in Ohio?
The age of consent for sex in Ohio is 16. If a person is 18 years of age or older, then it is a crime for that person to have sexual conduct (including oral sex) with a person who is under 16 years old. In such a case (where the accuser is between 13 and… Read more