Have you been charged with a crime in Fremont, Ohio? Are you being investigated and unsure of what comes next? Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, the consequences of a conviction can follow you for life. That’s why it’s critical to contact our skilled Fremont criminal defense lawyers at (419) 625-7770 as soon as possible.
At Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers, we understand exactly what’s at stake in these situations. We have over 180 years of combined legal experience. Our Fremont criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended clients against some of the most serious charges under Ohio law.
An arrest is not a conviction. You have rights, and we’re here to protect them. Contact our law office today to schedule your free consultation and get the defense you need.
Why Choose Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers to Defend You in Fremont?
At Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers, we believe that every person in Fremont, OH, deserves a fair trial and a strong defense. We bring nearly two centuries of combined legal experience to your case and won’t back down from a challenge.
Here’s why you should choose our Fremont criminal defense lawyers:
- Trial-proven results: We’ve secured not-guilty verdicts, charge dismissals, and favorable plea deals across hundreds of cases in Ohio.
- Personalized representation: You’re not just a case number. We take the time to understand your story, your needs, and your goals.
- Protection of your rights: We challenge police conduct, expose weak evidence, and never hesitate to take a case to trial if that’s what it takes.
- Local firm that knows the legal community: We are very familiar with Fremont, Sandusky County, and the surrounding court system. That local knowledge gives you an advantage as we build your case.
- Full-service defense: From pre-charge investigations and bail hearings to trial and post-conviction relief, we’ll handle every aspect of your defense confidently and efficiently.
Contact us today to schedule a free case review with a Fremont criminal defense attorney. We’re standing by to assist you.
Criminal Charges We Defend Against in Fremont, OH
Whether you’re facing your first offense or have prior convictions, we’re prepared to defend you. Criminal charges vary in severity, so it’s important to have a legal team with the experience and knowledge to best suit your situation.
Our Fremont defense attorneys handle a wide range of criminal cases, including:
DUI / OVI
Operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) in Ohio can lead to jail time, license suspension, and steep fines. For repeat offenders, the penalties can be even more serious. Our Fremont OVI attorneys have helped numerous clients challenge breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and illegal traffic stops.
Domestic Violence
Allegations of domestic abuse are taken seriously in Ohio, and a court may hit you with a protective order before your side of the story is even heard. Our Fremont domestic violence lawyers are here to protect your rights, challenge restraining orders, and fight false or exaggerated claims.
Juvenile Offenses
If your child has been charged with a crime in Sandusky County, their entire future could be affected. The juvenile system is designed for rehabilitation, but that doesn’t mean justice is always served. Our Fremont juvenile defense attorneys work to keep their record clean and their life on track.
Sex Crimes
Sex offense accusations carry heavy penalties and lasting stigma. These cases demand a strong, confidential, and strategic defense. Our Fremont sex crimes lawyers will fight to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Drug Charges
From marijuana possession to trafficking in controlled substances, Ohio drug charges carry serious consequences. Even minor offenses can leave a lasting mark on your record and your life. Our Fremont drug defense attorneys understand Ohio’s drug laws and how to fight improper searches, bad lab results, and more.
Additional Criminal Charges We Handle
Our firm has also represented Fremont residents facing:
- Assault and battery
- Robbery and burglary
- Homicide and manslaughter
- Federal charges
- White collar crimes
- Internet and cyber crimes
- Theft and shoplifting
- Parole and probation violations
- Failure to register as a sex offender
- Restraining order violations
- Weapons and firearm offenses
- Child endangerment
- Disorderly conduct
- Employee theft and fraud
With decades of trial experience behind us, we know what it takes to fight back and win. Whether you’re facing minor charges or major felony counts, we’re here to build a defense strategy that puts you in the strongest possible position to get a fair result.
What Are the Penalties if I’m Convicted of a Crime in Fremont, Ohio?
If you’re convicted of a crime in Fremont, the penalties can be harsh. Ohio classifies crimes as either misdemeanors or felonies, and each charge carries its own sentencing guidelines.
Felony Penalties in Ohio
Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses and have the potential for significant prison time and financial penalties:
- Fifth-degree felony: 6 to 12 months in prison and up to $2,500 in fines
- Fourth-degree felony: 6 to 18 months in prison and up to $5,000 in fines
- Third-degree felony: 9 months to 5 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines
- Second-degree felony: 2 to 8 years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines
- First-degree felony: 3 to 11 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines
For the most serious crimes (e.g., murder, rape, or human trafficking), courts may impose life imprisonment or extended sentences beyond the typical felony range.
Misdemeanor Penalties in Ohio
Although less serious than felonies, misdemeanors can still carry jail time and fines:
- First-degree misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines
- Second-degree misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and up to $750 in fines
- Third-degree misdemeanor: Up to 60 days in jail and up to $500 in fines
- Fourth-degree misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail and up to $250 in fines
In many misdemeanor cases, a skilled defense attorney can negotiate alternatives to incarceration, such as probation, community service, or treatment programs.
Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
The legal penalties are only part of the story. A criminal conviction can affect every aspect of your life for years.
You may also face some of the following collateral consequences:
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of professional licenses or certifications
- Difficulty finding housing or employment
- Ineligibility for federal student aid or loans
- Child custody and visitation limitations
- Deportation or immigration complications (if applicable)
- Loss of voting rights (for certain felony convictions)
- Firearm possession restrictions
- Court-ordered drug or alcohol counseling
- Sex offender registration (for qualifying offenses)
It’s essential to have an aggressive Fremont defense lawyer in your corner to fight to keep your record clean and your rights intact.
Common Defenses We May Use to Fight Your Charges
Every criminal case is different, so we will create a strong, personalized defense based on the facts of your case.
We may raise one or more of the following defenses:
- Illegal search or seizure: If police conducted a search without a warrant or probable cause, any evidence they collected may be inadmissible in court.
- Lack of probable cause: If you were arrested without sufficient justification, the charges may be dismissed.
- Violation of your Miranda rights: If you weren’t properly advised of your right to remain silent or to an attorney, statements you made may be suppressed.
- Mistaken identity: Eyewitness identifications can be unreliable. We can present alibi evidence, surveillance footage, or expert analysis to prove you weren’t involved.
- Self-defense or defense of others: In cases involving assault, battery, or even homicide, we may argue that you acted lawfully to protect yourself or someone else.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, you may have a valid defense.
- False accusations or bias: Particularly in domestic violence, sex crimes, or custody-related charges, we’ll explore whether a witness has a motive to lie.
- Lack of evidence: The burden of proof is on the prosecution. If they can’t meet that burden beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Our team will review every detail of your charges and challenge every weakness in the state’s case against you, holding them to that burden or forcing them to dismiss the charges against you.
Contact Our Fremont Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers, we’re ready to fight for your rights, future, and freedom.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or is under investigation in Fremont, Ohio, don’t wait to take action. Contact our experienced Fremont criminal defense lawyers today to schedule a free and confidential consultation. We’re ready to put 180+ years of combined experience behind your case. Call today or fill out our online contact form to get started.