Franklin County Municipal Court Defense Attorney
Charged with a misdemeanor, OVI, or traffic offense in Franklin County Municipal Court? Attorney John P.M. Rutan knows this courthouse — and knows how to fight your case.
Court Hours
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Arraignments: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM
Jurisdiction
Misdemeanors, OVI, traffic offenses, small claims, and civil cases up to $15,000 within Franklin County.
Charges Handled in Franklin County Municipal Court
Franklin County Municipal Court handles all misdemeanor criminal cases and traffic violations in Columbus and surrounding Franklin County municipalities. These charges carry real consequences — jail time, license suspension, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
OVI / DUI Charges
- First Offense OVI (M1) — up to 180 days jail
- OVI with Test Refusal — enhanced penalties
- OVI Under 21 — zero tolerance
- OVI with Prior Convictions
- Driving Under Suspension (DUS)
- Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearings
Misdemeanor Criminal Charges
- Domestic Violence (M1)
- Assault (M1)
- Drug Possession — marijuana, paraphernalia
- Theft (M1, M2)
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Trespass
- Menacing / Stalking
- Receiving Stolen Property
Don't Go to Arraignment Without an Attorney
Your first court appearance in Franklin County Municipal Court is your arraignment — where you enter a plea. What you say (and don't say) at arraignment can affect your entire case. Attorney Rutan can appear with you, protect your rights, and begin building your defense from day one. Call 614-307-4343 immediately after your arrest.
The Franklin County Municipal Court Process
Arrest & Booking
You are arrested, booked at the Franklin County Jail or Columbus Division of Police, and given a court date. Call Attorney Rutan immediately — early intervention can affect bond conditions and the direction of your case.
Arraignment
Your first court appearance. You enter a plea of Not Guilty (always the right first move), and the judge sets bond. Attorney Rutan will appear with you and argue for reasonable bond conditions.
Pre-Trial Hearings
Attorney Rutan reviews all evidence, files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiates with the prosecutor. Many cases are resolved favorably at this stage.
Trial or Resolution
If a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached, Attorney Rutan takes your case to trial before a judge or jury. Rutan Law is fully prepared to fight for a Not Guilty verdict.
Charged in Franklin County Municipal Court?
Attorney Rutan is available 24/7. The sooner you call, the more options you have.
Call 614-307-4343 — Available 24/7