Domestic Violence cases carry serious consequences for individuals in the state of Ohio. Domestic violence can be charged as a misdemeanor or can be enhanced to a felony offense, due to prior convictions. Domestic violence cases can also be charged as felonies based upon the nature of the injuries the victim suffers, if any.

Serious consequences can arise as a result of a plea or conviction of domestic violence. An individual could be sentenced to prison / jail, probation / community control, court programs or fines.

R. Clayton Lopez, a Columbus criminal lawyer believes that individuals need a responsible, aggressive defense to charges of domestic violence. Domestic violence is an offense that is prosecuted zealously in the state of Ohio. These cases receive special attention as there is local, state and federal funding for the prosecution of domestic violence. The office is dedicated to the protecting the rights of the accused. After a thorough investigation by the firm, we will advise the client if we believe it is in their interest to enter a plea or proceed to trial.

In the past, police officers would often discuss the situation with the individuals involved and try to resolve the issue without involving the court system. However, times have changed. If the police are called out on a domestic violence run, it is assured that a husband, wife, boyfriend or girlfriend will be arrested.

Police officers are very busy individuals. Often, they will not take the time to do a thorough investigation of the situation and will arrest the individual that does not have visible injuries, although that person may not have been the aggressor.