Columbus Criminal Lawyers

Columbus Criminal Lawyers

The city of Columbus, Ohio has seen a recent increase in crime, but officials say that the rise is not due to an increase in actual criminal activity. Instead, they attribute the uptick to a change in the way that crimes are being reported.

In the past, crimes were only counted if they were reported to police. However, starting this year, the city began using a new system that includes data from hospitals, social service agencies, and other sources. This change has resulted in a significant increase in the number of crimes being recorded.

Officials say that the new system provides a more accurate picture of crime in the city, and that the actual level of criminal activity has not changed.

If you are facing criminal charges in Columbus, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and fight for a favorable outcome. A qualified attorney will know how to challenge the prosecution’s case and raise defenses on your behalf.

The dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group have successfully represented clients throughout the USA. Our Columbus Criminal Attorneys understand what is at stake in a criminal case and will work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible result. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.

Columbus Criminal Defense FAQ

Can I Get a Court-Appointed Lawyer If I Can’t Afford One?

In order to qualify for a court-appointed lawyer, you must show that you can’t afford to hire your own lawyer. This is called demonstrating “indigency.” The court will ask you questions about your income, assets, and debts. You may also have to provide financial documents such as pay stubs or tax returns.

If the judge decides that you are indigent, he or she will appoint a lawyer for you at no cost. The court will also pay the lawyer’s fees and expenses out of public funds. If the judge decides that you are not indigent, he or she may still appoint a lawyer for you if the charges against you are serious enough to warrant it. In this case, however, the court will require you to pay all or part of the costs of your representation. The amount of money required from an indigent defendant is usually based on his or her ability to pay and may be as little as $50 in some cases. For more information on this topic, see FindLaw’s section on Indigency and Appointed Counsel in Criminal Cases.

Can I Get a Court-Appointed Lawyer If I’m Charged With a Misdemeanor?

The right to counsel applies only in felony cases (crimes punishable by imprisonment in state prison). In misdemeanor cases (crimes punishable by imprisonment in county jail), courts are not required to appoint lawyers for defendants who cannot afford one unless they are facing jail time as part of their sentence (for example, if they have been sentenced to serve 90 days in jail). However, some courts do provide free legal assistance in misdemeanor cases where defendants face possible jail time anyway. You should check with your local court clerk’s office about whether free legal assistance is available in your area and how to apply for it if it is available. For more information on this topic, see FindLaw’s section on Misdemeanors vs Felonies: Differences and Punishments.

Can I Get a Court-Appointed Lawyer If I’m Charged With a Violation?

The right to counsel applies only in criminal cases. Violations are not considered criminal cases, so courts are not required to appoint lawyers for defendants who cannot afford one. However, some courts do provide free legal assistance in violation cases where defendants face possible jail time anyway. You should check with your local court clerk’s office about whether free legal assistance is available in your area and how to apply for it if it is available.

Can I Get a Court-Appointed Lawyer If I’m Charged With a Federal Crime?

The right to counsel applies only in state criminal cases. Federal courts are not required to appoint lawyers for defendants who cannot afford one unless they are facing jail time as part of their sentence (for example, if they have been sentenced to serve 90 days in jail). However, some federal courts do provide free legal assistance in federal criminal cases where defendants face possible jail time anyway. You should check with your local court clerk’s office about whether free legal assistance is available in your area and how to apply for it if it is available.