Experienced Violent Crime Defense Lawyers In Southwest Ohio
Last updated on April 11, 2025
Violent crime charges are among the most serious – and the most stigmatized. If you’re facing allegations of a violent offense such as assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, robbery or homicide, now is the time to enlist a smart and skilled defense.
At Hurley Law, LLC, we are here for you. Our team of violent crime lawyers in Middletown is well-equipped to defend you. With more than 130 years of combined experience, our award-winning attorneys are known throughout Southwest Ohio for their skill, professionalism and in-depth knowledge of criminal law. We are committed to defending your rights and protecting your freedoms with the utmost diligence and dedication.
What Violent Crimes Can Hurley Law Assist With?
We offer a robust defense against a wide range of violent crime charges, including:
- Assault and battery: In Ohio, assault involves causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person. Battery, often used interchangeably with assault, specifically refers to the actual physical impact on someone else. Both are serious offenses.
- Domestic violence: This charge involves causing or attempting to cause physical harm to a family member, household member, or current or former intimate partner. The offense can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances and any prior offenses.
- Burglary: Burglary in Ohio involves unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime inside such as theft or vandalism.
- Armed robbery: This is a form of theft that involves using a weapon to take property from someone else.
- Homicide: Homicide refers to the unlawful killing of another person. In Ohio, this can include charges such as murder, voluntary manslaughter or negligent homicide.
- Kidnapping: This offense involves unlawfully removing or restraining someone against their will.
- Sexual assault: Sex offenses are prosecuted aggressively in Ohio, with penalties that can include long prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
We are familiar with the criminal courts throughout Southwest Ohio, including Middletown and Cincinnati. Our violent crime defense lawyers will stand by you through all stages of the criminal process.
Defending Your Rights And Best Interests Against Serious Charges
All violent crime charges carry severe potential consequences, including significant maximum fines and long-term imprisonment. We understand what’s at stake and will handle your case with the seriousness it deserves.
Our approach involves building a strong defense from the ground up. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, find strategic angles to challenge or negotiate with the prosecution, and advocate fiercely on your behalf to shield you from violent crime penalties.
What Constitutes A Violent Crime In Ohio?
In Ohio, a violent crime is any criminal offense that involves the use or threat of physical force against another person. This includes actions where harm is inflicted, attempted or threatened. Common examples include:
- Assault
- Robbery
- Domestic violence
- Homicide
- Kidnapping
Actions like brandishing a weapon or physically intimidating someone can qualify, depending on the circumstances and intent. Violent crimes center on the presence of violence or the credible threat of violence, whether or not the victim was physically injured. Courts look at intent, use of weapons and level of harm when classifying a charge as violent.
What Should You Do If You Are Charged With A Violent Crime In Middletown?
If you are charged or believe you may be charged with a violent crime in Middletown, Ohio, it is critical to act quickly and carefully.
- First, do not speak to the police without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Next, contact a criminal defense lawyer, preferably one with experience handling violent crime cases in Butler County courts.
- Preserve any evidence you have, including texts, videos and witness contacts, that could support your side of the story.
- Avoid discussing the case with anyone except your attorney, including on social media.
Your lawyer will need time to investigate the case, review the prosecution’s evidence and build a defense strategy. It is important to cooperate with your legal team and be honest to protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Are All Ohio Violent Crimes Felonies?
Not all violent crimes in Ohio are felonies, but many are. The most severe offenses are charged as felonies and carry lengthy jail time such as:
- Aggravated assault
- Armed robbery
- Murder
However, some violent crimes can be misdemeanors, depending on the severity and context.
For example, a first-time offense involving a simple assault that causes minor injuries could be charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, especially if no weapons were involved. On the other hand, repeat offenses or cases involving serious bodily harm may often result in felony charges.
Specific circumstances such as the relationship between parties or whether a deadly weapon was used, can help determine how the crime is classified.
No Time To Wait – Contact A Skilled Violent Crime Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing violent crime charges, time is of the essence. Do not wait to seek legal assistance. Contact us today to speak with a skilled violent crimes lawyer who can help you chart a course forward. Call 513-318-9893 to get started.