Cleveland Criminal Defense Attorney

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle 

The team at Mastandrea Law, LLC is equipped with the requisite experience and commitment to assist you in navigating criminal charges. We have successfully managed a multitude of cases, demonstrating a consistent record of triumph. No matter the nature of the crime you stand accused of, our team is prepared to provide the help you need.

Our Cleveland defense attorneys handle the following types of criminal cases: 

• Traffic violations 
• Student crimes 
• Sex crimes 
• Misdemeanors 
• Juvenile offenses 
• Felony offenses 
• DUI/OVI charges 
• Drug offenses 
• Domestic violence 
• Cybercrimes 

Penalties for Criminal Offenses in OH

There are two types of criminal offenses: misdemeanors and felonies. In Ohio, misdemeanor penalties are as follows: 

• Minor misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of no more than $150. 
• Fourth-degree misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of no more than $250 and 30 days of imprisonment. 
• Third-degree misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of no more than $500 and 60 days of imprisonment. 
• Second-degree misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of no more than $750 and 90 days of imprisonment. 
• First-degree misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of no more than $1,000 and imprisonment for 180 days.  

Ohio felony penalties are as follows: 

• Fifth-degree felonies carry a penalty of a fine of up to $2,500 and imprisonment for six to 12 months. 
• Fourth-degree felonies carry a penalty of a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for six to 18 months. 
• Third-degree felonies carry a penalty of a fine of up to $10,000 and imprisonment for nine, 12, 18, 24, or 36 months. However, a person found guilty of gross sexual imposition, sex with a minor, certain drug, burglary, and robbery offenses, sexual battery, and vehicular homicide can be imprisoned for 12, 18, 24, 30, 42, 48, 54, or 60 months (see Ohio Revised Code § 2929.14 (3)(a)). 
• Second-degree felonies carry a penalty of a fine of up to $15,000 and imprisonment for a minimum of two to eight years. 
• First-degree felonies carry a penalty of a fine of up to $20,000 and imprisonment for a minimum of three to 11 years. 

What to Do If You Arrested in OH 

If you are arrested, it is crucial to know and understand your rights to ensure they are not violated and to protect your best interests throughout the legal process. You have the right to: 

• Remain silent.
• Request counsel. 
• Not be searched or have assets seized without cause. 
• Receive due process. 
• Be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Not knowing or understanding your rights can have serious consequences. For example, you might inadvertently incriminate yourself by answering questions without an attorney present or consent to a search that the police did not have a legal right to perform. Both of these scenarios could significantly weaken your defense.

You should also remember to stay calm and respectful during your arrest and any subsequent interactions with the court and law enforcement officers. Do not resist arrest, even if you believe the arrest is unjust or unprovoked, to avoid exacerbating the situation or receiving additional charges.

Try to remember as many details as possible about your arrest, including the officers involved, where the arrest took place, and any witnesses to the arrest. Your attorney can use this information. 

What to Expect After an Arrest

After your arrest, you'll be taken to the police station for the booking process. This typically involves taking your photograph (mug shot), recording your personal information, and fingerprinting. You may also be searched, and your belongings will be inventoried and stored.

You will then go through the arraignment process. This is your first court appearance, where you'll be formally charged with a crime. You'll have the opportunity to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). It's crucial to have an attorney representing you at this stage.

Local Criminal Defense Services in Cleveland

At Mastandrea Law, LLC, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents of Cleveland when dealing with criminal charges. The local community is vibrant, but it also has its share of issues, from drug-related offenses to the complexities of DUI laws that can impact your daily life. We can help you navigate these challenges with a deep understanding of the local legal landscape.

In Cleveland, local government entities such as the Cleveland Municipal Court and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office play significant roles in the criminal justice system. We recognize that interactions with these institutions can be daunting, especially when facing charges related to domestic violence or juvenile crimes. Our team is well-versed in the local laws and procedures, meaning that you can receive quality guidance tailored to your situation.

Residents often express concerns about the stigma associated with criminal charges and the potential impact on their families and careers. We empathize with these pain points and strive to provide compassionate support while aggressively defending your rights. 

When you choose Mastandrea Law, LLC, you are not just hiring a legal team; you are partnering with a firm that truly understands Cleveland and its residents. We are dedicated to defending your rights and helping you move forward with confidence. 

Criminal Defense Counsel You Can Trust

Mastandrea Law, LLC has been providing criminal defense services to residents of Cleveland for more than a decade. Our commitment to excellence in criminal defense is evident in our work and our results. 

We are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients. When you retain our services, you can rest assured that you will be working with a team of dedicated professionals who will pursue a favorable outcome in your case. 

To schedule a free initial consultation with our Cleveland criminal defense attorney, contact Mastandrea Law, LLC today at (216) 306-5105.