Loved One Arrested in Ohio? Our Attorneys Can Help
When someone you care for has been arrested, you may be at a loss as to how you can help them. But getting a lawyer for someone in jail is a great first step.
At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we offer free initial consultations and have decades of criminal defense experience in Central Ohio and throughout the state. Call (614) 500-3836 today.
Here is more about what to look for in a criminal defense attorney in Ohio, what you can do to facilitate getting your friend or loved one a lawyer, and how the bail process works. If you have questions or need a lawyer quickly, do not hesitate to contact the experienced Columbus, OH criminal defense attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates.
24 Hour availability and free initial consultations: (614) 500-3836.
Need a Defense Lawyer? Heres What to Look For:
While your friend or relative is in jail, you can start working on getting them released and clearing their name by contacting a criminal defense lawyer on their behalf. An attorney can help you determine where your loved one was taken, whether bail can be arranged, and begin working on a defense strategy.
Here are some essential things to consider when choosing a lawyer:
- You want a qualified criminal defense lawyer
- You want a lawyer who will give your loved one’s case the time and attention it deserves
- You want a defense attorney with experience in the type of charge your loved one is facing
- You want a lawyer to help your loved one get the best possible result, given the facts
A helpful place to start looking for a local criminal defense lawyer is Google, but do not hesitate to ask your friends and family for recommendations. You can also review their online reviews and refer to the Ohio Bar Association for a referral.
How to Locate an Arrested Family Member
Next, you need to find out where your family member was taken. If your relative was sent to jail, you could start by checking the local jail in the county where you reside. For instance, if you know your loved one was arrested in Franklin County, you can contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to find out whether your loved one has been booked and what your next steps should be.
Learn the Criminal Charges & Details
While speaking with the Franklin County sheriff’s office or another county sheriff’s office, it is important to find out the charges your relative is facing. You can choose a criminal defense lawyer with experience handling similar cases. For instance, if your child was charged with driving under the influence, you may look for a local DUI lawyer with significant experience.
Whether it was an assault, drug offense, or sex crime, be sure to note any other relevant details that may apply. These details include whether this is your family member’s first offense, whether children were involved, whether anyone was injured, and any other facts that a defense lawyer should know from the start.
When Can They Be Released or Meet with a Defense Attorney?
When your loved one can be released will vary depending on the details of their case. Sometimes, they may be released on their own recognizance or soon after booking. However, in other cases, it could be days before your family member can be released.
For this reason, contacting a lawyer as soon as possible after the arrest should be a top priority. A defense lawyer will have greater access to meet with the client to discuss their case. This can be during visiting hours, after regular visiting hours, or on weekends if enough notice is given.
Understanding the Bail & Release Process
Immediately after their arrest, your loved one will be booked in the local jail system. Depending on the crime they are charged with, whether they have a criminal record, and other factors, they may have to post bail before being released.
If your loved one must wait to post bail until after arraignment, it could be several days before they are released. If bail is granted, once your family covers the costs or pays a bail bondsman, your loved one should be released shortly after.
In cases where bail is not granted, your loved one may need to remain in custody for the duration of their trial. If there is a warrant for your loved one’s arrest, contacting a lawyer before turning them in could let them prearrange bail and reduce their time in jail altogether.
The Cost of Getting Someone a Lawyer
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer may prevent some from picking up the phone and calling an attorney for help. While you do have the option of working with a public defender, the fact remains that these attorneys are often overworked and may not be able to provide your family member with the attention their case deserves.
Though more expensive than a public defender, working with a private criminal defense attorney could make all the difference in your loved one’s case. And while the rate for an attorney’s services can vary, the best way to discuss pricing is to contact a lawyer and review the specific factors involved in your loved one’s case.
Reach Out to a Columbus Defense Attorney Today
Dealing with your loved one’s arrest can be incredibly draining. Get help and secure their release by working with Luftman, Heck & Associates. We’ll discuss the details and immediately start getting them home with the best possible outcome.
Reach a lawyer today at (614) 500-3836 or submit a request to set up a free consultation. 24/7 Availability.
Call Now (614) 500-3836