Columbus Criminal Defense Attorneys
Focused Exclusively on Criminal Defense for Columbus Clients
Have you been accused of a crime in Ohio? Before discussing case facts with police or making important decisions, it helps to understand your rights and options. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, our lawyers provide criminal defense representation for people facing investigations, court proceedings, and possible appeals. We focus exclusively on criminal defense and provide one-on-one guidance on police questioning, evidence, plea decisions, and court proceedings.
Our founding attorney, Zachuary Meranda, won the 2012 Avvo Clients’ Choice Award, and our firm is accredited by the Better Business Bureau®. Two of our Columbus criminal defense attorneys were also selected to the Super Lawyers® Rising Stars™ list and recognized among the top 2.5% of young attorneys in Ohio and Kentucky. Our attorneys remain involved from the initial accusation through potential appeals. We work to protect your constitutional rights and explain the defense options available in your situation.
Call our firm at (614) 707-4239 today to schedule your FREE consultation.
Client-Centered
Defense Services
What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
A criminal defense attorney provides legal counsel and protects the rights of people accused of crimes. Our attorneys assess the accusation, available evidence, and procedural history so clients can make informed decisions throughout the criminal justice process.
In Franklin County, misdemeanor charges generally proceed through Franklin County Municipal Court, while felony charges generally proceed through the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. The court path depends on the applicable charge and circumstances of the case.
Our criminal defense services include:
- Case Assessment: Reviewing available evidence, witness statements, police reports, charging documents, and other relevant records to develop a clear understanding of the case.
- Legal Research: Identifying relevant laws, statutes, and legal precedents that apply to the client’s case.
- Defense Strategy: Developing a defense plan that considers the evidence, procedural issues, available defenses, negotiation options, and whether trial is appropriate.
- Client Consultation: Providing legal counsel so clients can make informed decisions, including whether to consider a plea agreement or proceed to trial.
- Negotiation: Discussing charge reductions, alternative resolutions, or sentencing recommendations with the prosecution when those options are available under the facts and applicable Ohio law.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, filing motions, and making legal arguments when a case proceeds in court.
- Post-Conviction Services: Assisting with sentencing hearings, criminal appeals, or efforts to expunge a conviction when legally available.
- Protection of Rights: Addressing constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to counsel, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the right to a fair trial.
From a criminal investigation through trial or post-conviction proceedings, we provide legal counsel, strategic planning, and courtroom advocacy based on the charges, evidence, and applicable procedure.
Call us at (614) 707-4239 to discuss your case in a free consultation.
Meet Our Columbus
Criminal Defense Team
Awards & Associations
Our Satisfied Clients
Read What They Say About Us
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“As stress free as it can be”
A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy- Jeff w -
“Great Representation”
There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!- Shane Dolen -
“Excellent job!”
We are very appreciative of the efforts put forth by Zach Meranda. The outcome was positive and he made us feel secure in an out of control situation. Felt glad to have him defending us and having his common sense approach to our case. We would recommend his services to anyone in need.- Anonymous -
“I Highly Recommend The Meranda Law Firm”
I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.- Payton R -
“Great work!!”
Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!- Pfeifer -
“Great Job”
Zach did a great job representing me. He worked hard to take care of me in my case. If I ever need a lawyer again, I'll definitely give him a call first.- Rod -
“Great Attorney”
Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.- Frances Benson -
“An Attorney That Will Give You His All!”
Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.- Rylan Burrie
Frequently Asked Questions
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Should I be worried if I am innocent?The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
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What important legal rights am I entitled to?If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
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Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.
