Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
Lancaster Criminal Defense Lawyer
This page of the website is provided to give you a brief introduction to four of the more common types of criminal charges I defend. I defend all types of criminal charges and yours may not be discussed below. However, because each case is unique there is no substitute for speaking with an attorney. Therefore, you should discuss your case personally with a criminal defense attorney before making any decisions. I provide criminal defense throughout Central Ohio, including Hocking, Fairfield, Franklin, and Perry counties, which include the communities of Lancaster, Pickerington, New Lexington, Logan, and Columbus. If you believe I can be of assistance, please call me at 740-653-0961.
Domestic Violence
Often people are charged with domestic violence for what appears to be little or no reason or out of a simple argument. Although your case may seem "simple" it is important to understand that the effective defense of domestic violence charges requires a full understanding of the nature of the charges, the unique ramifications of the charges, and the underlying often unseen political circumstances surrounding domestic violence charges.
Drug Crimes
Drug Trafficking / Manufacturing / Possession:
Almost all drug trafficking, drug manufacturing, or drug possession charges are felonies. They are serious offenses and if you have been charged with a felony drug offense you will need a highly skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side. However, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 100 grams is a minor misdemeanor, and possession of drug paraphernalia is also a misdemeanor. Although these cases may appear less threatening, it is important to keep in mind that a conviction of any drug offense comes with an automatic 6 month driver's license suspension and may prohibit you from lawfully owning a firearm.
Drunk Driving
OVI / DUI:
There are two different criminal charges people usually face with respect to drinking and driving: (1) driving with an alcohol level over the legal limit (.08 for breath and blood; .11 for urine); and (2) driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are driving and test over the legal limit you will most likely be charged with both offenses. However, if you do not take a blood-alcohol test, test under the limits, or test positive for drugs, you will be charged with the under the influence offense.
DUIDWI
Sex Crimes
Sex Offenses:
There has been an increase in the number of people charged with sex offenses in recent years. This means that there has also been an increase in the number of innocent people charged with sex offenses. I have successfully defended many people accused of sex offenses. However, because of the nature of these charges a successful defense is not easy. I understand the role physical evidence or the lack of physical evidence plays in these cases, I appreciate the value of a thorough pre-trial investigation, and I recognize the different effective means of cross-examination of complaining witnesses at trial.