Criminal Defense Attorney : Lawyer Bowling Green, Perrysburg Oh

1
Criminal Defense Process Ohio
Although the criminal defense process is similar
throughout the country, some slight differences
exist in each state. Heres a general look at
what happens if youre charged with a crime in
Ohio. This article provides an overview of Ohios
criminal law system.
2
The Arrest
People can be arrested if theres good reason
 probable cause for a law enforcement officer to
believe theyve committed a crime. Sometimes the
arrest is on the spot because the officer
witnessed the crime. More often, arrest occurs
after investigators gather evidence. Sometimes
officers will ask judges for arrest warrants, but
that doesnt happen often.
3
Rights of an Arrested Person
Before officers can begin questioning a suspect
after an arrest, they must inform him or her
about important rights. Judges can throw cases
out if suspects arent advised of their
constitutional rights to remain silent and to
have an attorney.
4
After the Arrest
After the arrest, the accused is booked at a
police station. The suspect is photographed and
fingerprinted, and personal items such as rings,
watches and wallets are taken. The accused will
have bail set and will either be released or sent
to jail.
5
First Appearance and Arraignment
Within three days after the arrest, a suspect
will be arraigned. At this hearing, the judge
tells the accused about the charges leveled
against him and reviews bail. The accused has an
opportunity to enter a plea either guilty, not
guilty or no contest. A guilty plea is rare at
this stage.
6
Preliminaries
Ohio defendants have the right to ask for a
preliminary hearing if theyre charged with a
felony. The hearing must be held within 10 days
of the initial court appearance. At the hearing,
the prosecutor must convince the judge that
theres enough reason to believe the defendant
committed the crime. If the judge agrees, the
case is set for trial. If he doesnt, the case is
dismissed.
7
Making A Deal
Most criminal cases are resolved when the
defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to
reduced charges or in exchange for a lighter
sentence. Ohio judges usually abide by plea
agreements, although they dont have to.
8
Preliminary and Grand Juries
Preliminary hearings are rare in Ohio. Cases
usually stem from either a complaint, a warrant
and summons, or a grand jury indictment. An
indictment occurs when a majority of 12 grand
jurors agrees that the prosecutor has enough
evidence to indicate a crime has been committed.
9
The Trial
Citizens can be tried by jury or before a judge
if both sides agree to this. Most felony trials
are held before juries, and in Ohio, they must
take place within 275 days of the arrest. Both
sides present their evidence and arguments, then
the jury decides if the prosecution has proven
the defendants guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If all jurors cant agree, a mistrial is declared
and the case can be tried again before new
jurors. Although Ohio has broad sentencing
guidelines, judges are the ultimate authority in
deciding about prison or jail time, probation,
community service or restitution.
10
Consult a Lawyer
If youre accused of a crime in Ohio, Contact
Skip Potter as quickly as possible so you can get
legal advice geared toward your specific case.
11
Click the Link in the Description
www.potterlawoffice.com