Felony Division

Our Felony Division protects the liberty and constitutional rights of our clients facing felony charges In Hamilton County, Ohio.

There are five basic levels of felony offenses in Ohio.  In the event of a conviction, a defendant faces the possibility of imprisonment and fines according to the severity of the offense.

• First degree felony – Prison term of three to eleven years, maximum fine $20,000
• Second degree felony  – Prison term of two to eight years, maximum fine $15,000
• Third degree felony – Prison term of nine to sixty months, maximum fine $10,000
• Fourth degree felony – Prison term of six to eighteen months, maximum fine $5,000
• Fifth degree felony – Prison term of six to twelve months, maximum fine $2,500

Convictions for violent offenses such as aggravated murder, murder and crimes with firearm specifications carry harsher, mandatory sentences.

The Felony Division serves the needs of clients facing felony charges in all areas of the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court, including regular dockets and special dockets such as:

• Drug Court – Chemically dependent persons charged with low level, non-violent offenses may be eligible to participate in court ordered treatment.  Upon successful completion, charges are dismissed.  Services include:  group counseling, sobriety meetings, education services, and family involvement.
• Mental Health Court – Those with chronic mental illness who are charged with non-violent offenses but are competent to stand trial may have the opportunity to participate in treatment programs in lieu of incarceration.  The goal of the court is to have the client compliant with his or her treatment goals, and to obtain supportive treatment and stable housing.
• Veterans Court – This program serves individuals with military service, regardless of discharge status, who have become involved with the criminal justice system. Veterans will be screened and have their needs assessed. Depending on the outcome, different levels of service will be provided as needed.

The attorneys in our Felony Division emphasize teamwork and cooperation to meet the needs of our clients, counsel with and inform them at all stages of their case, and ensure they are treated with dignity.  The Felony Division attorneys also coordinate and support the efforts of more than 130 private contract attorneys who serve on the felony panel.  We strive to be an information resource so these attorneys can provide the best representation possible for their appointed clients.