Ohio Domestic Violence Defense
Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Ohio
A domestic violence charge can destroy your family, your career, and your future — even if the allegations are false. Attorney John P.M. Rutan fights aggressively to protect your rights, your record, and your relationship with your children.
What's at Stake
The Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
Ohio takes domestic violence charges extremely seriously. Even a first-offense misdemeanor conviction carries consequences that can follow you for life — and domestic violence convictions generally cannot be expunged or sealed.
Ohio DV Penalties at a Glance
Penalties vary based on specific facts. Consult an attorney for your situation.
What We Defend
Domestic Violence Charges in Ohio
Domestic Violence (ORC 2919.25)
Knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to a family or household member. Can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on prior history.
Aggravated Domestic Violence
Causing serious physical harm or using a deadly weapon. Charged as a felony with significant prison exposure.
Violating a Protection Order
Contacting a protected person or entering a protected location. A separate criminal charge that can be filed even if the underlying DV charge is dropped.
Menacing / Stalking
Causing another person to believe they are in danger of physical harm. Often charged alongside domestic violence.
Criminal Damaging
Damaging property of a family or household member during a domestic dispute.
Interference with Custody
Taking or enticing a child away from the parent entitled to custody — often charged in contentious separations.
Defense Strategies
How We Fight Domestic Violence Charges
False Accusations
Domestic violence charges are sometimes filed based on false or exaggerated allegations — especially during contentious divorces or custody disputes. We investigate the facts and expose inconsistencies.
Self-Defense
Ohio law recognizes the right to defend yourself. If you acted in self-defense or defense of others, that is a complete defense to domestic violence charges.
Lack of Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge weak evidence, inconsistent witness statements, and improper police procedures.
Challenging the Protection Order
Civil protection orders are often issued ex parte (without your input). We fight to modify or vacate orders that are based on false or insufficient evidence.
Common Questions
Domestic Violence Defense FAQ
Can domestic violence charges be dropped in Ohio?
Yes. Even if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges, the decision belongs to the prosecutor — not the victim. However, an experienced defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge the evidence, and in many cases get charges reduced or dismissed. The alleged victim's cooperation (or lack thereof) is one factor prosecutors consider.
What is a protection order and how does it affect me?
A civil protection order (CPO) or temporary protection order (TPO) can bar you from your own home, restrict contact with your children, and require you to surrender firearms. Violating a protection order is a separate criminal offense. Attorney Rutan can challenge the issuance of a protection order and fight for your rights at the full hearing.
Will a domestic violence conviction affect my gun rights?
Yes — under federal law (the Lautenberg Amendment), a domestic violence conviction permanently prohibits you from possessing firearms or ammunition. This applies even to misdemeanor domestic violence convictions. This is one of the most serious collateral consequences of a DV conviction.
Can domestic violence be expunged in Ohio?
Domestic violence convictions are generally not eligible for expungement or record sealing in Ohio. This makes fighting the charge — rather than accepting a plea — critically important. Call Attorney Rutan before entering any plea.
Charged with Domestic Violence in Ohio?
Don't face this alone. A domestic violence conviction cannot be expunged — which means fighting the charge now is critical. Call Attorney Rutan immediately for a free, confidential consultation.