Practice Areas

At Luftman, Heck & Associates, our Columbus lawyers are experienced in handling all types of cases. We have assisted many clients with a wide variety of felony-level charges ranging from aggravated assault and murder, to minor offenses such as traffic infractions. To schedule a free and confidential evaluation of your case with an attorney near you, contact us today at (614) 500-3836.

The attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates have helped clients with a wide range of criminal matters. Our Columbus criminal defense lawyers are experienced in representing clients at every stage of the legal process, from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses.

DUI & Traffic Offenses

Our Columbus DUI and traffic attorneys help clients fight drunk and drugged-driving charges, protect their licenses, and minimize penalties throughout the city. We focus on minimizing fines, avoiding jail time, and reducing the long-term consequences of traffic-related convictions.

Every criminal offense in the Columbus area, from misdemeanors to felonies, are treated seriously. You will need equally serious legal representation to avoid a harsh case outcome. Often, when someone is unexpectedly thrust into the criminal justice system, the complexities can quickly become overwhelming, but a knowledgeable Columbus criminal defense lawyer will guide you through the process.

Misdemeanor Sentences in Ohio

• Minor Misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail and/or fines up to $150
• Fourth Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 30 days and fines up to $250
• Third Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 60 days and fines up to $500
• Second Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days and fines up to $750
• First Degree Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days and fines up to $1,000

Felony Sentences in Ohio

• Fifth Degree Felony: Up to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500
• Fourth Degree Felony: 6–18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000
• Third Degree Felony: 9–36 months in prison and fines up to $10,000
• Second Degree Felony: 2–8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000
• First Degree Felony: 3–11 years in prison and fines up to $20,000
• Capital Offenses: Life imprisonment or death penalty in cases like aggravated murder

Collateral Consequences

In addition to statutory penalties, criminal convictions can result in:

• Incarceration
• Probation
• Permanent Criminal Record
• Employment Issues
• Costly Fines
• Substance Abuse Treatment
• Diversion Programs
• Suspension or Revocation of Your Driver’s License
• Denial of Affordable Housing
• Immigration Issues
• Loan/Financial Aid Ineligibility
• Denial of a Professional License

The Criminal Process in Columbus

Understanding the criminal process helps you prepare for each stage of your case. Working with an experienced Columbus criminal defense attorney ensures your rights are protected and that you make informed decisions every step of the way:

Investigation and Arrest

The criminal process begins when law enforcement investigates an alleged offense. Police may gather evidence, interview witnesses, and conduct criminal investigations, and may seek warrants if necessary. If probable cause exists, an arrest may be made, and understanding your arrest rights is critical. At this stage, your attorney can guide you on what to say—or not say—to law enforcement, protect your constitutional rights, and begin building a strong defense strategy.

Initial Appearance / Arraignment

After an arrest, you will have your initial court appearance, called an arraignment. During this hearing, the charges against you are formally read, bail may be addressed, and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your Columbus criminal defense lawyer will review the charges, explain your plea options, and advise on the best course of action based on your case circumstances. You may also need guidance on the bail and bond process to secure your release.

Pretrial Hearings

Pretrial hearings are used to address procedural matters, exchange evidence between the defense and prosecution (discovery), and consider motions such as requests to suppress evidence. A skilled attorney can raise challenges involving search and seizure issues or improperly obtained evidence that may violate your constitutional rights. Successfully resolving these issues can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case before trial.

Plea Negotiations

Many criminal cases in Columbus are resolved through plea negotiations and agreements rather than going to trial. Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor to potentially reduce charges, lower sentencing recommendations, or explore alternative sentencing options such as early judicial release. A strong plea strategy can significantly limit the long-term consequences of a conviction.

Trial

If a plea deal is not accepted, your case proceeds to trial. Your lawyer will present evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and make persuasive arguments to defend your case before a judge or jury. Throughout the process, working closely with an experienced criminal defense lawyer helps ensure every legal defense is explored, and your rights remain protected. The goal is to create reasonable doubt and pursue an acquittal or reduced charges.

Sentencing

If you are convicted, the court may impose a sentence that includes incarceration, probation, fines, community service, or other penalties. In some cases, the government may also pursue asset forfeiture if property is alleged to be connected to criminal activity. Judges consider aggravating and mitigating factors, and your attorney can advocate for alternatives to incarceration and the most favorable outcome possible.

Appeals or Post-Conviction Relief

After a conviction, there may be options to appeal the verdict or seek post-conviction relief if legal errors affected the outcome. Appeals can challenge issues such as improper jury instructions, violations of constitutional rights, or mistakes in applying Ohio law. A knowledgeable attorney will carefully review your case, identify viable grounds for appeal, and fight to potentially overturn or reduce your conviction.

Courts in Columbus, Ohio

Criminal cases may be heard in different courts depending on the charge:

Mayor’s Courts (Local Municipal Courts)

These courts handle minor traffic violations and local ordinance offenses and are often the first stop for low-level violations. These courts can be found all over Columbus, including:

• Bexley
• Canal Winchester
• Dublin
• Gahanna
• Grandview Heights
• Grove City
• Groveport
• Hilliard
• Marble Cliff
• New Albany
• Obetz
• Reynoldsburg
• Upper Arlington
• Valleyview
• Westerville
• Whitehall
• Worthington

Franklin County Municipal Court

375 S Hight St, Columbus, OH 43215 – This court handles misdemeanors, traffic cases, local ordinance violations, and preliminary hearings for felony cases in Columbus. It also includes pretrial and probation services.

Franklin County Court of Common Pleas – General Division

345 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 – The County Court of Common Pleas hears serious felony cases, including major assaults, drug trafficking, and murder cases.

Ohio Court of Appeals – Tenth District

373 S High St, 23rd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215 – Reviews decisions made in lower courts (Common Pleas, Municipal, and others) for legal errors.

Federal Court – U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio

Joseph P. Kinneary U.S. Courthouse, 85 Marconi Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215 – Federal criminal matters (such as federal drug offenses, fraud, immigration-related charges, and firearms violations) are handled here.

Local Resources for Criminal Cases in Columbus

Below are local organizations and services that may assist people involved in or impacted by criminal legal issues in Columbus:

Franklin County Public Defender’s Office

373 S High St, 12th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215 – Provides legal representation to eligible clients who cannot afford private counsel in criminal matters, including misdemeanor and felony cases.

Columbus Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service

230 West St, Suite 100, Columbus, OH 43215 – Helps connect individuals to qualified attorneys for consultations across a range of legal issues, including criminal defense.

Franklin County Municipal Court Probation Department

Located within the Franklin County Government Center at 375 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 – Assists individuals with probation compliance, reporting, and resources for alternative sentencing programs (contact via the Municipal Court main number).

Community Treatment & Support Resources (Local Treatment Programs)

There are numerous community‑based organizations throughout Columbus that provide substance use treatment, mental health support, and rehabilitation services which can be beneficial during or after criminal proceedings, such as:

• Maryhaven – Substance abuse and dual‑diagnosis treatment provider.
• Syntero, Inc. – Behavioral health and counseling services.
• PrimaryOne Health – Community health center with behavioral health programs.

(These organizations may offer programs relevant to sentencing mitigation, diversion eligibility, and recovery support.)

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction (ODRC)

The ODRC administers state correctional facilities and rehabilitation programs across Ohio, including reentry and supervision support for individuals after incarceration (Statewide information and resources available through the ODRC main office).

At Luftman, Heck & Associates, our Columbus criminal attorneys provide our clients with an aggressive and thorough defense, regardless of the charges. If you need a dedicated advocate to preserve your rights and represent your best interests, we are here for you.

Every case and client is unique; however, here are some common issues individuals in the Columbus area encounter:

• Criminal Defense Glossary – View concise definitions and explanations for various legal terms, concepts, and jargon commonly encountered in criminal law. Whether you’re a defendant trying to understand your case or simply an interested party, this glossary clarifies the complex terms used in the criminal justice system.
• Arrest Rights – Learn about your constitutional rights and how a capable defense lawyer can ensure they are protected.
• Criminal Investigations – If you are the subject of a criminal investigation, it is important to know what you are up against and how an experienced Columbus criminal defense attorney can help.
• Expungements – Living with a conviction can significantly limit your future. Learn how a legal professional can help you remove these hurdles from your records.
• Probation Violations – Court-ordered probation is a serious matter. If you are accused of violating the terms of your probation agreement, you’ll need a Columbus criminal defense lawyer to set things right.
• Parole Violations – Parole violations should always be treated as seriously as your original charge.
• Search & Seizure Laws – Learn about your property rights and how a lawyer can help if these rights are violated through an illegal search or seizure.
• Asset Forfeiture – If the government believes your property is connected to a crime, they may attempt to take it. Learn how a lawyer can help protect your property.
• Types of Pleas – Negotiating for the best possible outcome in your case can be very complicated, and you will need a seasoned legal professional who has your best interests in mind to help you navigate the types of pleas.
• Bail & Bond – Learn how Ohio uses the bail and bond system to ensure you appear in court to address specific charges.
• False Accusations – Facing a false accusation or charge of committing a crime in Ohio can be a startling event to absorb. However, our attorneys have the experience you need to form an intelligent and effective defense on your behalf.
• Burden of Proof – With criminal charges in Columbus, it is the prosecution’s responsibility to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Learn how a skilled criminal defense lawyer will craft an effective defense to raise this doubt.
• Pardons – Learn about your eligibility to have a past crime forgiven in Ohio, and how a qualified attorney can help with the pardons process.
• Judicial Release – Previously known as “shock probation” in Ohio, judicial release is an act of leniency based on certain criteria and the offender’s conduct while in custody. To discuss the possibility of an early release, contact LHA and schedule a free consultation.

Learn what distinguishes a misdemeanor from a felony. Although a misdemeanor is considered to be a lesser crime than a felony, both can carry significant penalties. An experienced Columbus criminal defense lawyer can better explain the situation you are facing. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we provide 100% free and confidential consultations.

It is perfectly natural to be scared if you are charged with a crime. The process is often grueling and full of uncertainty since the outcome can have long-lasting and serious repercussions. When you are represented by Luftman, Heck & Associates, you can rest assured that our attorneys will be with you every step of the way as we build a strong defense. We will answer your questions clearly and honestly, and we will fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Facing criminal charges in Columbus is not easy. Below you will find information relating to the state’s legal system and how a skilled lawyer from our firm can help:

• Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer? – Understandably, it is hard to navigate the system without experience, and having effective legal representation in any criminal case can be a significant advantage. There are questions you should ask to make the most of your initial consultation to help.
• Arraignment – An arraignment will be your first appearance in court, and a Columbus criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and enter an appropriate plea.
• Plea Negotiations & Deals – Finding the best possible outcome typically involves in-depth negotiations and deals. A capable attorney will fight for you and explain the effect of any plea agreement on your charges.
• Pretrial Hearings – Pretrial hearings are where your Columbus criminal defense lawyer and the prosecution will trade evidence and build their respective cases. A quality lawyer will keep you informed, and their attention to detail will be vital to crafting your defense.
• Criminal Trials – Criminal trials are where arguments are made regarding your charges and whether your case is heard before a judge or jury.
• Misdemeanor Sentences – There are various classes of misdemeanor offenses in Ohio, and a knowledgeable attorney will explain the difference and potential impacts of these charges.
• Felony Sentences – If you are convicted of a felony-level offense in Ohio, the aftermath will affect you for years to come. A good defense lawyer will work to protect your interests and future.
• Criminal Appeals – After a conviction, you have the right to fight the verdict. A knowledgeable attorney will review your case for flaws in the original process to find grounds to appeal your case.
• Alternative Sentencing Programs – Rather than filling Ohio’s jails and prisons, options exist to rehabilitate some offenders instead of punishing them. An experienced criminal defense attorney can determine if you qualify and can find the most appropriate option.

Despite misdemeanors carrying fewer penalties than felonies, misdemeanors can still appear on a background check. Learn more in this video.

If you have been charged with a crime, you’re probably wondering what your options are. The Columbus criminal defense attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates have years of experience handling various types of cases and winning optimal outcomes for our clients. Call us today for a free consultation at (614) 500-3836, or reach out through our online form.