A full service law firm with focused practice groups in family law, adoption, probate,
traffic/criminal defense and civil litigation.
Felony Offenses
Felony Defense Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
A felony charge is one of the most serious legal matters you can face. In Ohio, felony convictions can result in long prison sentences, steep fines, loss of civil rights, and a permanent criminal record. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we do not just represent you. We advocate for you and fight to protect your future from the moment you contact us.
Whether this is your first time in the criminal justice system or you have prior convictions, we are here to stand with you, defend your rights, and push for the strongest possible outcome in your case.
Understanding Felony Charges in Ohio
Felonies in Ohio are classified by degree, ranging from fifth-degree to first-degree, with additional categories for aggravated and life sentence offenses. These charges are handled in the Court of Common Pleas and can involve formal indictments, pretrial hearings, and significant penalties. A felony conviction can follow you for life, which is why experienced legal defense is critical from the start.
Fourth and Fifth-Degree Felonies
These include offenses such as drug possession, theft between $1,000 and $7,500, and probation violations. While they are the lowest levels of felony charges in Ohio, they can still result in up to 18 months in prison, community control, or fines up to $5,000 depending on the circumstances and criminal history.
In Ohio, courts may sentence individuals to probation or intervention programs for non-violent or first-time offenses. However, repeat offenses or technical probation violations are treated more harshly. Judges have discretion, but prosecutors often push for some form of sanction. Our role is to protect your record and pursue outcomes that avoid incarceration.
First, Second, and Third-Degree Felonies
These are serious charges and include offenses such as felonious assault, aggravated theft, aggravated drug trafficking, and sexual battery. Sentences range from 9 months to 11 years depending on the degree and other factors. Convictions can also carry post-release control and long-term collateral consequences.
In Ohio, these felonies require formal indictment and are heard in the Court of Common Pleas. Judges follow structured sentencing guidelines and may be limited in granting leniency without compelling reasons. We intervene early to challenge evidence, request favorable bond terms, and pursue strategies that limit long-term damage.
Aggravated Felonies and Life Sentence Offenses
Aggravated felonies involve the most serious crimes in Ohio. These include aggravated murder, rape of a minor, attempted murder, and crimes involving firearms or child victims. These charges can result in life sentences, indefinite sentencing, and mandatory minimums.
In Ohio courts, aggravated felony cases typically begin with a grand jury indictment. These cases often involve multiple law enforcement agencies, expert testimony, and forensic evidence. Prosecutors are aggressive, and courts impose strict timelines and conditions. Our team prepares for these cases with urgency, discretion, and courtroom strength to protect your rights at every stage.
How We Can
Help at Your First Consultation
We know how serious and overwhelming felony charges can be. At your first consultation, we take immediate action to understand your case and build a defense strategy with purpose. Here is what we will do:
- We will review the indictment or arrest details and explain what the charges mean under Ohio law
- We will break down the potential penalties, including prison terms, sentencing guidelines, and long-term consequences
- We will explain the felony court process and help you prepare for what comes next
- We will go over the facts of the case and give you the chance to tell your story
- We will explain our legal strategy, how we fight for you in and out of court, and how representation and fees are structured
- And we assure you everything you share with us is 100 percent confidential
We are not here to judge you. We are here to defend you, advocate for you, and fight for the best possible result.
Traffic and Criminal
Experienced Lawyers in Family Law, Divorce, Adoption, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal, Traffic, Bankruptcy, Business, Personal Injury, Civil and Education Law.
What We Can Do for You
Felony charges carry serious risks including prison time, loss of rights, and long-term damage to your future. We build a strategic defense to challenge the charges, protect your freedom, and work toward the best possible outcome. From the first step forward, we offer guidance, clear answers, and strong legal protection at every stage.
Analyze Indictments, Charging Documents, and Discovery
We review police reports, indictments, witness statements, and prosecutor disclosures to identify defenses, legal flaws, and opportunities to challenge the charges filed against you at the earliest possible stage in the case process.
File Motions to Suppress or Dismiss Evidence
We file motions to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence, unreliable statements, and unsupported searches. These filings can prevent the prosecution from using improper material and help reduce or dismiss the charges you face in court.
Negotiate for Reductions or Alternative Resolutions
We advocate for reduced felony charges, diversion, or community-based sentencing when available. Our goal is to pursue outcomes that avoid prison, preserve your future, and resolve your case in a way that limits long-term consequences.
Represent You at Arraignment, Pretrial, and Trial
We advocate for reduced felony charges, diversion, or community-based sentencing when available. Our goal is to pursue outcomes that avoid prison, preserve your future, and resolve your case in a way that limits long-term consequences.
Advise on Post-Conviction Steps and Record Options
If convicted or sentenced, we guide you through your post-conviction rights. We review eligibility for judicial release, sealing, or appeals and help you file the correct documents to reduce penalties and protect your record moving forward.
When to Call a Felony Defense Attorney
If you are under investigation, facing indictment, or have been charged with a felony, the time to act is now. Felony charges carry serious consequences, and early legal involvement can improve your chances of a stronger outcome. From challenging evidence to negotiating charges, every decision matters.
Our attorneys are ready to evaluate your case, explain your rights, and begin building a defense that protects your future from day one.
Tell Us About You And Your Situation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felonies are more serious crimes that carry harsher penalties, including longer prison time, loss of rights, and a permanent record. Misdemeanors carry shorter jail terms and lesser fines.
Can felony charges be reduced to misdemeanors?
Yes. In some cases, we can negotiate for a reduction depending on the charge, evidence, and criminal history.
Do all felony cases go to trial?
No. Many are resolved through pretrial motions, dismissals, or negotiated pleas. We help you choose the best strategy for your case.
Will I go to prison for a felony in Ohio?
It depends on the charge and your criminal history. Some felonies carry mandatory prison terms, but others may qualify for probation, diversion, or judicial release.
Can a felony be expunged or sealed in Ohio?
Some lower-level felonies are eligible for sealing after a waiting period. We evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.