Best Criminal Lawyer in Ohio
Ryan Shafer
Criminal Lawyer
Ryan Shafer spent more than five years in the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office, defending the accused against misdemeanor and felony charges. He brings both that experience and that passion to his work as a criminal defense attorney for Joslyn Law Firm.
Ryan graduated Cum Laude from the University of Cincinnati in 2002 with a degree in business and political science. He earned his Juris Doctor from Duquesne University and became licensed to practice law in Ohio in 2007.
Experience
- Dominic Frank Law Offices
- Franklin County Public Defender’s Office
Education
- Juris Doctorate (J.D.), Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, minor in Political Science, cum laude – Cincinnati University
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Ohio State Bar Association
- Ohio Association for Justice
- Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- National College of DUI Defense
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Columbus Bar Association
- Central Ohio Association for Justice
John Philip
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney John Philip Milton Rutan is the Managing Attorney and Founder of Rutan Law. Rutan Law was opened up in November 2010. His legal career begins in 2002 while attending a paralegal school in downtown Columbus Ohio. In 2007 John began law school at The University of La Verne in Ontario California. Before coming to Ohio John concluded his law clerking and paralegal experience in the Public Defender’s office in San Diego California giving him a variety of experiences. John is admitted to practice law in Ohio State Court and in the United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio.
To not only get you out of trouble but to keep you out of trouble. At my firm, we believe personal attention and excellence is necessary in defending your rights and freedom. Rutan Law was built on a commitment to exploring every legal avenue in defending your case. Get in touch with Expert Criminal Defense Lawyer in Columbus Ohio.
Rossia C. Meranda
Criminal Lawyer
Prior to opening The Meranda Law Firm LTD with my Husband, Zachuary Meranda, I received extensive experience with an outstanding government agency and extremely reputable private law firm. At the Washtenaw County Public Defender’s Office, I represented and counseled numerous indigent defendants accused of criminal offenses. I gained a respect for the endless frustration and constant anxiety that individuals charged with a criminal offense must endure as they navigate through our criminal justice system.
To balance this experience, I also worked for the City of Circleville as an Assistant Prosecutor. As a prosecutor, I got a well-rounded understanding of the criminal system and what it takes to be an effective advocate for my clients now.
With aspirations of expanding my legal career, I also worked with Crabb, Brown, and James, LLP. In this civil firm, I gained experience through extensive involvement in complex litigation. Drafting complex motions and assisting top level attorneys in all aspects of trial preparation, I received incomparable knowledge of the most difficult cases to handle.
After working in a large firm environment, I began working for a smaller firm, Seimer & Associates, to have a more hands-on approach with clients. Here, I found my true calling, as I handled the entire Juvenile and Domestic caseload for the firm. While working with struggling families and troublesome children, my passion for developing in this area to better assist these individuals grew. It is this particular area of law that I focus on in our firm today.
Michael Boske
Criminal Lawyer
For the past 24 years, Michael Boske has handled thousands of Criminal cases throughout Ohio. From minor traffic and OVI/DUI charges to major assaults, domestic violence, drug offenses and murder charges. Mr. Boske provides his clients with an unsurpassed understanding of the issues and a unique familiarity with Prosecuting Attorneys and Judges in the Court System.
- Top 100 Trial Lawyers | National Trial Lawyers | 2013
- Stark County Bar Association Executive Committee | Stark County Bar Association | 2010
- National College of Criminal Defense | Themes and Theries Seminar | 2010
- Top Lawyers of Greater Akron | Akron Life and Leisure Magazine | 2009
- National Academy of Criminal Defense | Ultimate DUI Seminar | 2009
- Member | National College of DUI Defense | 2008
- Top Lawyers in Greater Akron | Akron Life and Leisure Magazine | 2008
- Certificate of Training | La Pier & Associates | 2007
- Stark County Bar Association | Disputed Fee Committee | 2000
- Stark County Family Law Committee | Stark County Bar Association | 1996
SHAWN DOMINY
Criminal Lawyer
Shawn Dominy-Criminal Defense Attorney & DUI / OVI Defense Lawyer
In Columbus, Ohio
Shawn Dominy is the founding attorney of the Dominy Law Firm, located in Columbus, Ohio. He helps clients charged with DUI / OVI, criminal offenses, and serious vehicular crimes like vehicular homicide and vehicular assault. This page of the website is designed to give you more background information about about Shawn Dominy.
Recognition/Awards
Shawn Dominy was selected as one of the Best Lawyers in America®; one of only two lawyers in the state of Ohio named to Best Lawyers for both DUI/OVI defense and criminal defense. Mr. Dominy is named in the Super Lawyers® list for Ohio, a list which recognizes only 5% of exceptional lawyers in each state. He was also selected by Super Lawyers® and Columbus Monthly magazine as one of the top 50 lawyers in Columbus, a city with over 8,000 lawyers. In 2022, Shawn received the Leadership Award from the National College for DUI Defense.
COLIN MAHER
Criminal Lawyer
Ohio’s DUI laws are among the strictest in the nation. Individuals who are convicted of a DUI face harsh penalties and consequences, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a DUI offense, contact an experienced Columbus DUI attorney as soon as possible. The knowledge and expertise of a skilled Ohio DUI attorney could make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.
Columbus Ohio DUI/OVI attorneys at Maher Law Firm is dedicated to aggressively defending those who have been arrested for a DUI/OVI. We also represent individuals who have been charged with other criminal and traffic offenses. We’ve successfully handled over 2,000 cases and nearly 100 trials. We aggressively pursue justice on your behalf and can provide specific insight into your case, regardless of what criminal charges you face.
Douglas Riddell
Criminal Lawyer
Douglas Riddell founded Riddell Law after practicing for years as a public defender in the Franklin County Municipal Court and as a private criminal defense attorney in small boutique firms in the Columbus area.
His practice focuses on criminal defense, including defense of DUI/OVI, criminal misdemeanor and traffic charges.
Doug’s experience includes representing clients in county, municipal and mayor’s courts throughout Ohio facing OVI, traffic, and criminal charges. His pragmatic and proactive strategic approach has helped countless clients achieve favorable outcomes in their criminal and traffic cases.
Doug represents clients facing a wide range of criminal misdemeanor and traffic charges, including DUI / OVI, speeding tickets, traffic violations, underage drinking, domestic violence, resisting arrest, reckless driving, theft, criminal damaging, disorderly conduct, domestic violence, drug crimes, drug paraphernalia, fraud, juvenile crimes, hit skip, probation violation, and vandalism, among other charges.
Benjamin L. Luftman
Criminal Lawyer
In every case he takes on, Benjamin never hesitates to devote himself fully to his clients, and his dedication and attention to detail have helped to grow Luftman, Heck & Associates from a fledgling firm into the accomplished one it is today. As an example, all of Benjamin’s clients have his cell phone number and can reach him directly with a question or concern.
Growing up in nearby Bexley, Ohio, Mr. Luftman took an early interest in sports, running track and playing soccer at Bexley High School, where he graduated in 1996. Enrolling at The Ohio State University, he majored in History with a concentration on Renaissance Italy and graduated in 2000. Finally finishing his education with a Juris Doctorate in Law at Capital University in 2003, he began practicing law and founded Luftman, Heck & Associates the same year.
When not in court, Benjamin regularly speaks about OVI / DUI law at Certified Driver Intervention programs throughout central Ohio. There he’ll talk about topics like which breathalyzer machines are most accurate, what to expect with standardized field sobriety tests and the proper procedure to follow if you find yourself pulled over for driving over the limit.
Benjamin has also been certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for completing the same training required by police officers to conduct the roadside standardized field sobriety tests.
Buckeye State Justice: Why You Need a Top Criminal Lawyer in Ohio
Facing criminal charges in Ohio, the “Buckeye State,” can feel like navigating the winding Cuyahoga River – beautiful yet unpredictable. The legal system, while striving for fairness, can be complex and unforgiving. Here’s why securing a top-tier criminal lawyer in Ohio is crucial for protecting your freedom and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Unmatched Expertise in Ohio’s Legal Landscape:
Ohio has its own unique set of criminal codes, statutes, and court decisions. A top-tier criminal lawyer licensed in Ohio possesses in-depth understanding of these nuances, allowing them to:
- Decode Legal Complexities: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) and interpret key court rulings that may influence the prosecution’s strategy and your potential defenses.
- Stay Current on Legal Developments: The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Your lawyer actively monitors changes in Ohio criminal law, ensuring your defense strategy reflects the most up-to-date legal principles and leverages any recent rulings that could benefit your case.
2. Specialized Criminal Defense Experience:
Top criminal lawyers in Ohio dedicate their practice to defending individuals facing criminal charges:
- A Breadth of Criminal Cases: They possess extensive experience handling a wide range of offenses, including drug crimes, assault, theft, DUIs, white-collar crimes, and more. This expertise allows them to anticipate prosecution tactics and readily identify potential defense strategies specific to your situation.
3. Championing Your Rights Under Ohio Law:
Your fundamental rights are paramount:
- Protecting Your Constitutional Rights: The best criminal attorneys in Ohio are dedicated to protecting your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. They ensure that law enforcement and prosecutors adhere to proper procedures, such as respecting your right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. They will challenge any violations of your rights and work to exclude any unlawfully obtained evidence from being used against you. (Ohio.gov)
4. Building a Strong Defense Through Investigation:
A top criminal lawyer in Ohio doesn’t wait for the prosecution to make a move:
- Thorough Case Evaluation: They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case, meticulously analyzing evidence, witness statements, and police reports. They may conduct their own investigation to uncover inconsistencies, weaknesses, or potential defenses that could strengthen your case.
5. Strategic Negotiation and Plea Bargaining:
Skilled negotiation can lead to favorable outcomes:
- Expert Negotiation Skills: A competent criminal attorney possesses excellent negotiation skills and can work with prosecutors to secure a favorable plea agreement on your behalf. They will advocate for you, aiming to reduce charges or penalties, and explore alternatives such as diversion programs or probation. This negotiation skill can help minimize the potential consequences of your case.
6. Courtroom Advocacy: Powerful Representation When Needed:
If your case goes to trial, having a seasoned lawyer by your side is crucial:
- Trial-Ready Attorneys: The best criminal lawyers in Ohio have extensive courtroom experience, including knowledge of trial strategies, effective presentation skills, and the ability to cross-examine witnesses. They will fight vigorously to defend your rights and interests in the courtroom.
7. Support and Guidance Throughout a Difficult Time:
The legal process can be emotionally draining:
- Understanding and Empathy: The best criminal lawyers in Ohio not only provide legal representation but also offer emotional support and reassurance throughout the process. They will explain the legal proceedings, answer your questions, and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system with confidence.