Ohio has been using DUI/OVI checkpoints for more than 30 years to deter drunk driving. Although they may seem like a violation of your rights, courts have ruled that checkpoints are legal, provided they fall within certain guidelines. Exercising your rights to remain silent and refuse a field sobriety test may not be enough to … Continue reading “Ohio OVI Checkpoints: Know Your Rights”
Having an Ohio criminal record—even for a non-conviction—can make it difficult to put the past behind you. When applying for jobs, housing, loans, or licenses, a clean record might make the difference between achieving success and continuing to be held back by a prior mistake. Sealing a criminal record makes your arrests and convictions invisible … Continue reading “Restoring a Clean Criminal Record: Ohio Record Sealing”
A felony crime conviction can be life-changing. Even being accused of a felony can negatively impact your life in many ways. At best, you will have to invest time and money into clearing your name. At worst, you could face fines and a lengthy prison sentence. Guilty or not guilty, when faced with felony charges, … Continue reading “Ohio Felony Sentencing and Fines Guidelines”
“What’s new,” you ask? Ohio’s self-defense law. The state’s new self-defense law came into effect this past March. The most important change you need to know is that if you wound or kill someone and claim it was an act of self-defense, you are innocent until the state proves that your actions were not self-defense. … Continue reading “Ohio’s New Self-Defense Law: What You Need to Know”
If you, a friend, or a loved one gets on the wrong side of the law in Ohio, knowing what to expect can help to manage the uncertainty and outcome, because criminal convictions impact careers, families, and freedoms in life-changing ways. Here’s What You Need to Know When Facing—or fighting—a Criminal Charge in Ohio When … Continue reading “Criminal Trial Procedures in Ohio: What to Expect if You’ve Been Accused of a Crime”
Health experts are blaming drugged driving for a statewide spike in Ohio OVI arrests. But as police step up efforts to crack down on drug-impaired drivers, they may overstep their legal bounds and violate people’s rights. Driving under the influence of drugs is a serious charge that can cause long-term damage to your employment, freedom, … Continue reading “Ohio Drugged Driving Arrests and Crashes On The Rise”
