Columbus Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Ohio
You have been arrested on what police say is a misdemeanor offense? You may have many questions about your situation. Is this a serious crime? How will conviction affect your future? What punishments can you be subject to?
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, our Columbus misdemeanors attorneys have more than 15 years of legal experience and can answer these questions for you. When you retain our services, our firm remains available to provide advice and counsel regarding your rights and legal options.
Are you worried about how a misdemeanor offense may impact your future? Call (614) 707-4239 or contact us online to set up a free, confidential initial consultation.
Misdemeanor Charges in Ohio
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is generally considered less severe than a felony; however, it is still a serious matter that can carry significant penalties. For individuals charged with a misdemeanor, the emotional and physical toll can be overwhelming. The stress and anxiety of navigating the legal system, the potential impact on one's reputation and employment, and the strain on relationships can lead to a range of negative emotional effects, from heightened stress to depression. Understanding the gravity of misdemeanor charges and their profound impacts can help individuals seek the appropriate legal support and resources needed to manage these challenges.
Common Types of Misdemeanors in Ohio
With the help of a knowledgeable Columbus misdemeanor lawyer from our criminal defense firm, we can establish a defense that either gets your charges reduced, dropped, or dismissed. In some cases, we can successfully negotiate with the prosecution to secure lesser penalties or alternative sentencing to keep your record clean. Regardless of the circumstances, you can count on us to fight to clear your name.
Consequences of Misdemeanor Convictions
It's important to understand the potential consequences of a misdemeanor conviction in Ohio. While misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still have a significant impact on your life. Consequences of a misdemeanor conviction may include:
- Fines and court costs
- Probation
- Community service
- Loss of professional licenses
- Difficulty finding employment
- Impact on immigration status
- Loss of voting rights
It also means that you will carry a criminal record that can be searched during employer background checks and can prevent you from obtaining employment or a professional license within certain fields. If you are charged with a misdemeanor again in the future, having a previous conviction can actually escalate the new charges to the felony level.
Our experienced misdemeanor attorneys in Columbus can help you understand the potential consequences of your charges and work to build a strong defense to protect your rights and future.
Start Building Your Defense Today: Call (614) 707-4239
Common Mistakes People Make When Facing a Misdemeanor Charge
When facing a misdemeanor charge, it's crucial to avoid actions and decisions that could negatively impact the outcome of your case. Here are some common mistakes people make in these situations:
- Talking to the Police Without Legal Representation: Many individuals believe they can explain their way out of a charge. However, without legal representation, anything you say to the police can be used against you in court.
- Ignoring the Charges: Some people think that ignoring the problem will make it go away. Missing court dates or failing to comply with orders can lead to additional charges and penalties, making your situation worse.
- Representing Themselves in Court: While you have the right to represent yourself, doing so without the necessary legal knowledge can be detrimental. A qualified attorney understands the law and can help navigate the complexities of your case.
- Failing to Gather Evidence and Witnesses: Not taking the time to collect evidence or secure witnesses who can testify on your behalf can weaken your defense. Evidence and credible testimony can be critical to achieving a favorable outcome.
- Posting About the Case on Social Media: Sharing details about your case on social media can be harmful. Prosecutors can use your posts against you, and privacy settings are not foolproof.
- Ignoring Legal Advice: Your attorney's advice is based on experience and knowledge of the law. Choosing to ignore this advice can complicate your case and result in less favorable outcomes.
Many people have misconceptions about the seriousness of misdemeanor charges. Often, people make the mistake of thinking they do not need legal representation to take on a misdemeanor or that they should simply plead guilty and move on. However, both of these assumptions could lead to devastating consequences. It is crucial that you fight your charges, no matter how serious! Even a minor misdemeanor could haunt your record and come back to bite you when combined with a future charge.
The Meranda Law Firm LTD is committed to providing quality and affordable representation to all clients that come through our doors. If you are looking for affordable, reliable, and experienced counsel, your search is over.
Benefits of Hiring a Misdemeanor Attorney
When facing misdemeanor charges in Ohio, it's important to have a skilled and experienced attorney on your side. A misdemeanor conviction can have serious consequences, including fines, probation, and even jail time. Hiring a misdemeanor attorney can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome and minimize the impact of the charges on your life.
Here are some benefits of hiring a misdemeanor attorney:
- Legal expertise and knowledge of the criminal justice system
- Ability to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties
- Guidance through the legal process and court appearances
- Potential for case dismissal or acquittal
- Protection of your rights and best interests
Don't face misdemeanor charges alone. Contact The Meranda Law Firm LTD today to start building your defense and protecting your future.
Contact our Columbus misdemeanor lawyers immediately by calling (614) 707-4239 to discuss your case and defense strategies.
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.
