Columbus Criminal Defense Attorney
Ohio's Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney — Available 24/7
All 88 Counties. All Your Defense Needs. License and Liberty.
Charged with a crime or facing a license board? Call or text John P.M. Rutan any time — day or night.
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614-307-4343 · 7 days a week
All Your Defense Needs. License and Liberty.
Charged with a crime or facing a board complaint? Every hour matters. Here's why clients across Ohio choose Rutan Law:
24/7
Available
Call or text any time — nights, weekends, holidays. We pick up.
Free
Consultation
No charge to discuss your case. No obligation. Just answers.
88
Ohio Counties
We travel to every court in Ohio. Your county is our county.
20+
Boards Defended
Medical, nursing, pharmacy, real estate and more — we know the process.
When Your Freedom, Career, or Reputation Is on the Line,
Experience Matters.
Call or text now — available 24/7.
What Happens During Your Consultation?
Your first consultation is designed to give you clarity — not pressure. When you contact Rutan Law, you'll speak directly with an attorney who will listen to your situation, explain the law in plain English, and discuss the options available to protect your future.
During your consultation we will:
- ✓Review the facts of your case
- ✓Explain the charges, investigation, or board complaint
- ✓Discuss possible defenses and legal strategies
- ✓Answer your questions honestly
- ✓Explain fees and what to expect moving forward
Whether you've been arrested, received a letter from a licensing board, or simply don't know what to do next — we'll help you understand your options before you make any decisions.
No pressure. Just experienced legal guidance when you need it most.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services
DUI / OVI Defense
At Rutan Law, we challenge all aspects of the DUI charge — breath & blood tests, field sobriety tests, and BMV hearings.
Learn MoreDrug Crimes
Charged with drug possession, trafficking, manufacturing, or prescription drug offenses? Drug interdiction is aggressive and unconstitutional seizures happen.
Learn MoreViolent Crimes
Allegations of violent crimes such as assault, felonious assault, robbery, aggravated robbery, and rape carry severe penalties.
Learn MoreDomestic Violence
Domestic violence charges can result in immediate jeopardy. We protect your parental rights, and long-term criminal interests.
Learn MoreTheft & Property Crimes
Theft charges — shoplifting, employee theft, burglary, fraud, identity theft, or financial crimes — can result in significant charge elevations.
Learn MoreWeapons & Firearms
Weapons or firearm offenses in Ohio can trigger mandatory prison sentences, felony convictions, and lifetime consequences.
Learn MoreTraffic & Vehicular Crimes
Serious traffic offenses such as driving under suspension, hit-skip, reckless operation, street racing, or vehicular homicide.
Learn MoreExpungement & Record Sealing
At Rutan Law, we analyze your full criminal history to determine eligibility under Ohio law.
Learn More
Professional License Defense
Your License Is Your Livelihood. We Fight to Protect It.
A board complaint or investigation can end your career overnight. Rutan Law defends doctors, nurses, pharmacists, real estate agents, contractors, and all licensed Ohio professionals before state boards and agencies — with the same aggressive, client-first approach we bring to criminal court.
- Ohio Medical Board & Nursing Board
- Pharmacy, Dental & Psychology Boards
- Real Estate, Accountancy & Engineering Boards
- All Ohio licensing authorities — 20+ boards served
Why Choose Rutan Law
"As a top Columbus criminal defense attorney, Rutan Law brings decades of experience and a client-first approach."
Our criminal defense lawyer offers 24/7 expert assistance, ensuring you're never alone — especially during late-night emergencies. With a proven track record, we're your defense partner in Columbus and beyond.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Rutan Law handle cases outside Columbus?+
Yes. Rutan Law represents clients in all 88 Ohio counties, traveling statewide for criminal defense cases. No matter where in Ohio you were charged, we can help. See our Ohio Counties page for full coverage details.
Is Rutan Law available 24/7?+
Yes. Rutan Law is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for urgent criminal defense matters. Call (614) 307-4343 any time — day or night, weekends and holidays.
Does Rutan Law handle professional license defense?+
Yes. Rutan Law defends licensed professionals — doctors, nurses, pharmacists, teachers, contractors, and more — before all 24 Ohio state licensing boards. A board complaint can end your career; early intervention is critical. Learn about Professional License Defense
What types of criminal cases does Rutan Law handle?+
Rutan Law handles DUI/OVI, drug crimes, violent crimes, domestic violence, weapons charges, theft, sex crimes, white-collar crimes, traffic offenses, and expungement/record sealing across all Ohio courts. View all practice areas →
How quickly can I speak with Attorney Rutan?+
Same-day consultations are available. Call or text (614) 307-4343 and you will speak directly with Attorney John P.M. Rutan — not a paralegal or intake staff. Or submit a consultation request online.
What should I do if I am arrested in Ohio?+
Remain silent, do not answer questions without an attorney present, and call Rutan Law immediately at (614) 307-4343. Anything you say can and will be used against you — your right to counsel begins at arrest.
From the Blog
Federal Drug Charges in Ohio: Why They Are Different and How to Defend Them
Federal drug charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, no parole, and are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys with far more resources than local prosecutors. Here is what makes federal cases different and what defenses exist.
Read more
Your First Court Date in Ohio: What Happens at Arraignment
Arraignment is your first appearance before a judge after a criminal charge. Here is what to expect, what to say, and the one mistake that can hurt your case immediately.
Read moreAssault and Aggravated Assault in Ohio: What the Charges Mean and How to Fight Them
Ohio assault charges range from a minor misdemeanor to a first-degree felony. The difference between simple assault and aggravated assault can mean years in prison. Here is what each charge requires.
Read moreWhat Clients Say About Rutan Law
Akilah Watkins
February 11, 2026
Kathleen Davis
August 19, 2025
John Rutan remedied my situation with consise, professional, compassionate care and consideration. A case that I thought could take a long time was taken care of with a quickness. This is an attorney that doesn't mess around. I would highly recommend him. Know you're in good hands with John. His professionalism exceeds all expectations.
Jill Weaver
July 18, 2025
John went over and beyond for me. He listened, and was present. I hope I never need an attorney again, but if I do I will definitely be calling John Rutan.
jay brown
July 14, 2025
My guy Rutan always saves the day.. Call Him if you're in need of an awesome attorney
Aerial A
May 21, 2025
John Rutan is an excellent attorney, and I'm very grateful and pleased with his representation! If you ever find yourself needing an attorney, I would highly, without a doubt recommend this man! He will fight for you with no judgement!! He is also very personable and genuine!! 10 out of freaking 10, would highly recommend!!
Yusuf Zyn
April 1, 2025
I truly cannot say enough good things about this law firm. I had the pleasure of working with John and he was always there for me every step of the way. I felt like he cared for me as a person and not just another client. I was extremely impressed and I would highly recommend John and his team to anyone. Thank you!!
Contact Rutan Law – 24/7 Criminal Defense
A criminal charge can escalate quickly, but our Columbus criminal defense attorneys are here 24/7. Contact Rutan Law now for professional representation tailored to your case.
Schedule a Consultation