Working With Me
Your free consultation. We meet in person at my office on Courthouse Square, by phone or by video. I’ll listen, answer your questions and tell you honestly what I think.
Scheduling. I’m in court most days, so meetings are scheduled in advance. If you call while I’m in court, Lindsay will answer, take down your questions and make sure you get an answer. Messages left after hours are returned the next business day.
Jail visits. If you or a loved one is in custody, I can meet at the jail.
Staying informed. You’ll know your next court date, what’s going to happen there and what I need from you. If something changes, I’ll tell you.
Clear fees. Most cases are handled for a flat fee, quoted in writing before you hire me. How fees work
What to Bring to Your Consultation
Your citation, complaint, indictment or any court papers
Bond paperwork and BMV notices (for OVI or license issues)
Your next court date
Names of any witnesses, and any photos, texts or videos you have
A list of your questions
How a Criminal Case Usually Goes
Arrest or citation. You get a court date or are released on bond.
Arraignment. Your first court date. You’re told the charges, a plea of not guilty is usually entered, and bond is addressed. Felonies may start with a preliminary hearing or go to a grand jury for indictment.
Discovery. I request the police reports, video, lab results and witness statements.
Pretrial conferences. I meet with the prosecutor to discuss the evidence and possible resolutions. Most cases have more than one.
Motions. If the stop, search or questioning was illegal, I ask the court to throw out the evidence.
Resolution. A dismissal, a plea agreement, a diversion program or trial. The decision is always yours.
Sentencing. If there’s a conviction, I present everything the judge should know about you.
After the case. Appeals, probation questions and, when you’re eligible, sealing your record.
How Long Will It Take?
Ohio’s speedy trial law sets time limits, which depend on the charge and whether you’re in jail. Many misdemeanor cases resolve in a few weeks to a few months. Felony cases often take several months or longer. I’ll give you a realistic timeline after reviewing your case.