Question 1

What is the statute of limitations for criminal defense in Ohio?

Accepted Answer

Murder and aggravated murder have no statute of limitations. Rape and sexual battery must be charged within 25 years. Most other felonies within 6 years. Misdemeanors within 2 years. Minor misdemeanors within 6 months. (Ohio Rev. Code § 2901.13)

Question 2

What is Ohio's law on felony sentencing ranges?

Accepted Answer

First-degree felonies carry an indefinite term with a minimum of 3–11 years. Second-degree felonies carry a minimum of 2–8 years. Third-degree felonies: 9–36 months. Fourth-degree: 6–18 months. Fifth-degree: 6–12 months. First-degree misdemeanors carry up to 180 days in jail. (Ohio Rev. Code § 2929.14)

Question 3

What is Ohio's law on record sealing / expungement?

Accepted Answer

Eligible offenders may apply to seal their criminal record. Timing varies: 1 year after final discharge for most eligible offenses, 3 years for third-degree felonies. Not eligible: first/second-degree felonies, sex offenses requiring registration, OVI convictions, and offenses of violence with prison time. (Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.32)

Question 4

What is Ohio's law on ovi (dui) penalties?

Accepted Answer

Ohio uses a 10-year lookback period (20 years if chemical test was refused). BAC limit is 0.08%. First offense: 3 days to 6 months jail, $375–$1,075 fine, 1–3 year license suspension. OVI convictions cannot be sealed or expunged. (Ohio Rev. Code § 4511.19)

Question 5

What is Ohio's law on right to counsel?

Accepted Answer

The Ohio Constitution guarantees the right to counsel in criminal prosecutions. Indigent defendants are entitled to appointed counsel through the county public defender or court-appointed counsel. (Ohio Const. art. I, § 10; Ohio Rev. Code § 120.16)

Criminal Defense Laws in Ohio.

Statute of Limitations

Key Ohio Statutes

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