Domestic Violence Lawyer in Columbus
Defending Your Reputation and Future
Domestic violence is considered any act of violence that occurs between a household or family members. This could include verbal or physical abuse and can quickly lead to severe consequences for a defendant. In addition to prison time and other repercussions, a conviction also carries a serious social stigma. The stakes are high, so do not wait a moment longer to call the Columbus domestic violence lawyers at The Meranda Law Firm LTD.
The penalties for domestic violence can vary substantially, especially due to how varied the crimes are within this category. You may be facing thousands of dollars in fines, mandatory jail time, anger management or counseling classes, and even time behind bars. You cannot afford to take on these charges alone!
The bottom line is that our firm can provide the solid representation that you need during this challenging time. We have all the legal resources and tools needed to fight your domestic violence charges and win!
Why Should You Work with Our Firm?
- Selected to the Ohio & Kentucky Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ list
- Exclusively handle criminal defense cases
- One-on-one and client-centered legal services
- Former prosecutor on staff, providing insightful counsel
- 45 years of combined experience handling cases like yours
If you are facing charges of domestic violence, speak with our attorney today by calling (614) 707-4239 about protecting your future!
What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Ohio?
Domestic violence is defined as the intentional use of violence or the threat of violence against a family member or a close associate, such as a boyfriend/girlfriend or roommate. This means you could be charged for simply threatening another, even if no action was taken against them.
Types of Domestic Violence
- Assault/battery
- Sexual assault
- Molestation
- Threats
- Violation of a court order
- Verbal abuse
- Child neglect
- Stalking
- Trespassing
- Reckless endangerment
5 Things a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for Your Charges
A domestic violence charge can throw your life upside down. You're facing jail time, fines, and social stigma that can last a lifetime. However, you can fight back. There are important things that a Columbus domestic violence attorney can do to help you with your domestic violence charges.
Here are five things a domestic violence lawyer can do if you’re facing a domestic violence charge:
- Help You Understand the Charges: Domestic violence charges are complex. A domestic violence charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony depending on a number of various factors. Your Columbus domestic violence lawyer makes sure that you understand the charges you're up against and what the state needs to prove against you to win their case.
- Build a Strong Defense: Even though domestic violence is a serious charge, there are a number of defenses available to any domestic violence charge. The preparation for a domestic violence case begins long before the trial date. An experienced attorney will help you prepare a case strategy and methodically build the evidence. They know what evidence is admissible in court and how to gather evidence in order to have a strong defense.
- Subpoena Witnesses: A domestic violence charge often comes down to the credibility of witnesses. You need to have all of the witnesses present at your trial. Your domestic violence attorney can prepare subpoenas to make sure that witnesses are court-ordered to appear at your trial.
- Object to the Evidence: When domestic violence charges hinge on the evidence and witness credibility, the state may try to rely on inadmissible evidence like hearsay. They might try to use unrelated incidents or prior convictions against you.
One thing that your attorney can do is bring preliminary motions regarding the evidence that the state wants to present at trial. They can ask the court to keep out evidence that is unfair or prejudicial which might keep you from having a fair trial. - Understand All the Options: A domestic violence defense is inherently complex. By building a strong defense, you may convince the state attorney to offer a plea deal. If you get a plea offer, you need to know if you should accept it. In addition, in Ohio, there are multiple types of case resolutions for domestic violence including deferred prosecution or diversion. Your attorney can help you understand all the options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Charged with Domestic Violence
Facing charges of domestic violence can be a highly stressful and confusing time, leading many individuals to make critical mistakes that could harm their case. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Attempting to Contact the Victim: Many individuals try to contact the victim to explain their side of the story or apologize, which can be viewed as intimidation or tampering with a witness.
- Speaking to the Police Without an Attorney: Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court. Speaking without legal representation increases the risk of inadvertently incriminating yourself.
- Posting About the Case on Social Media: Comments, pictures, or videos related to the case posted on social media platforms can be used as evidence against you.
- Ignoring Court Orders: Failing to comply with a restraining order or any other court-imposed conditions can lead to additional charges and penalties.
- Underestimating the Seriousness of the Charges: Some individuals might not fully grasp how a domestic violence charge can impact their lives, leading to a lack of preparation for their defense.
How An Attorney Can Help Avoid Common Pitfalls
An experienced domestic violence attorney plays a crucial role in helping individuals avoid these and other common pitfalls. From the moment of their engagement, an attorney acts as a buffer between you and the authorities, ensuring that all communication is handled appropriately and in a manner that does not compromise your defense.
They will advise against any action that could be detrimental to your case, such as discussing the case on social media or contacting the victim. Your attorney will also emphasize the importance of adhering to any court orders, highlighting how compliance can positively impact the outcome of your case.
Furthermore, through their understanding of the law and procedural strategy, an attorney can guide you in recognizing the seriousness of the charges and the importance of a meticulously prepared defense. This comprehensive support and guidance are invaluable in navigating the complexities of a domestic violence charge, aiming to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
What Should I Ask A Domestic Violence Lawyer?
Before hiring a lawyer, it is important that you ask certain questions to help ensure that you are on the same page.
Here are some questions to ask your lawyer:
- Can you tell me about your experience with domestic violence cases?
- Have you worked on any high-profile domestic violence cases?
- How do you approach domestic violence cases involving substance abuse or mental health issues?
- Can you explain the potential consequences of a domestic violence conviction?
- How will you communicate with me during my case?
- Will you be personally handling my case, or will it be delegated to someone else in your firm?
- What is your success rate in domestic violence cases?
- Can you estimate how long my case may take to resolve?
- How do you charge for your services – hourly, flat rate, retainer, etc.?
- Do you have any references from past clients I can speak with about their experience working with you on their domestic violence cases?
It's important to feel confident and comfortable with the attorney you choose to represent you in a domestic violence case, so asking these questions can help guide your decision-making process.
Challenge the Prosecution's Case Today
If you are facing domestic abuse charges, it is to your benefit to contact a Columbus, OH domestic violence attorney from our firm for seasoned counsel and support. We can examine the details surrounding your charges and build a defense that stands up against even the toughest accusations.
We at The Meranda Law Firm LTD understand the difficulties that can come with being charged with domestic violence. Such charges can have a profoundly negative impact on an individual's personal life, and they may even affect their employment opportunities. We believe that those facing domestic violence charges are entitled to a fair and just trial and are ready to stand up for their rights at any time!
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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What should I do if my child was arrested?No parent wants their child to have to go through an ordeal like being arrested. When these situations do occur, it can be difficult to determine what the best course of action would be. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult justice system and so it is important that you have a legal representative who understands the juvenile system and can help you get through this time. Whether your child has been accused of DUI, a drug crime, a misdemeanor, or a felony, you will be able to have peace of mind knowing that we are there helping you every step of the way.
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Can I afford a criminal defense attorney?Another question you will have to consider when deciding which defense lawyer to handle your case is whether or not you can afford it. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, we want to be able to provide reasonable rates to our clients so that you can get the help you need. In order to give you an idea of how much it will be, we will meet with you in a free consultation and discuss what kind of fees you could expect.
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How do I appeal my conviction?What should you do if you have already been convicted of a crime and have received your sentence? If you believe that justice was not served, your first step should be to contact our firm to see if we could help you appeal your case. Not every attorney takes on appeal cases they can be more complex and time-consuming than other cases. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, however, we are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients, no matter how difficult the case. If you want us to look over your case, please contact our team as soon as possible.