Most people associate burglary with theft, but committing any crime after entering a building without permission can lead to a burglary charge. The laws dealing with burglary are rooted in English common law, and they protect people rather than possessions. In Ohio,...
Hamilton Criminal Defense Law Blog
Roadside drug tests challenged in court
Hundreds of police and corrections departments in Ohio and around the country use portable test kits to determine whether suspicious substances are illegal drugs. These kits are popular because they are inexpensive, and police and corrections officers can be trained...
Can DUI charges be dismissed?
A moment's bad judgment can lead to serious consequences when it comes to driving under the influence. And the consequences of a DUI in Ohio can be severe, from fines and prison time to losing your license to issues with your job. If you find yourself facing a DUI...
How to challenge breath test results in Ohio
If you get arrested and charged with DUI, you may want to challenge the breath test results. There are many ways to do this, and the method you choose will depend on the facts of your DUI case. Did the police officers have probable cause? Probable cause refers to the...
Theft charges in Ohio
Theft in Ohio has several levels of punishment depending on the value of the items stolen and the way it was obtained. For example, a person can be charged with grand theft, petty theft, robbery or burglary. A person can also be charged with theft of services, which...
Elements of burglary and penalties in Ohio
Figures estimate 2.5 million burglaries occur in the U.S. annually though these numbers are decreasing. Most all states define burglary in the same way though penalties vary. Ohio treats burglary as a felony or misdemeanor and requires certain elements for a case....
Why is expungement a crucial process?
A criminal conviction can lead to devastating consequences such as fines, jail time and community service. Unfortunately, a criminal record can also negatively impact future opportunities. Further, law enforcement adds to a criminal record not only with a conviction,...
Can you practice to pass a field sobriety test?
Drinking with your friends and mimicking the field sobriety tests you see on TV can be a fun way to get a laugh on a Friday night. You may even add ways to make it more challenging to make the game more interesting. When you are facing an officer, however, a field...
Can I call my parents after an arrest?
Going through an arrest is a terrifying experience. Often, the process happens so quickly and catches you so off guard that you may not fully realize what is happening. Between getting into a police car and getting to the station, you may start racking your brain...
The evidence used in domestic violence cases
As with any criminal charges, police and prosecutors must gather evidence that the defendant committed the crime, then use that evidence at trial or as leverage to negotiate a plea deal. Many times, when someone is charged with domestic violence, the evidence is...
