FAQ – Menacing and Aggravated Menacing in Columbus and Central Ohio

A: The main difference is the type of harm allegedly threatened. In a Menacing case, a defendant knowingly causes another person to believe the defendant would cause physical harm to their person, property, unborn child or immediate family. In an Aggravated Menacing case , a defendant knowingly causes another person to believe the defendant would cause serious physical harm to their person, property, unborn child or immediate family. So, the difference is physical harm vs. serious physical harm.

A: A Menacing case is usually categorized as a misdemeanor of the fourth-degree. The potential sentence involves a jail term up to 30 days, a fine up to $250 and a probation (also called community control) for up to five years. An Aggravated Menacing case is usually categorized as a misdemeanor of the first degree. The potential sentence involves a jail term up to 180 days, a fine up to $1000, and up to five years of probation (community control).

A: In these type of cases, the defendant’s attorney should collect information about the case facts to determine what will be the evidence in court. The defense lawyer should also research previous cases and make legal arguments about evidence admissibility. The lawyer then advocates for his or her client when negotiating with the prosecuting attorney. The attorney tries to reach a deal which is acceptable to the client. If, however, an acceptable deal can’t reached, the lawyer must be willing and able to take the case to trial for the jury to determine whether the client is guilty or not guilty.

The Dominy Law firm in Columbus, Ohio represents clients charged with Menacing and Aggravated Menacing in Franklin County, Delaware County, and some other central Ohio counties. To learn more about the Dominy Law Firm, please see the ‘About Us’ page. To see what clients say about our firm’s representation, please see the ‘Client Reviews’ page. If you would like to discuss how the Dominy Law Firm can help with your case, please call (614) 717-1177 or submit a CONTACT FORM to schedule a free phone consultation.