FAQ – Domestic Violence Cases in Columbus and Central Ohio

Q: What Types of Domestic Violence Cases are There in Ohio?

A: There are two basic types of Domestic Violence charges in Ohio: Domestic Violence ‘By Threat’ and Domestic Violence ‘By Force’.

Q: What is Domestic Violence ‘By Threat’, and What are the Possible Penalties?

A: In a Domestic Violence ‘By Threat’ case, the prosecution must prove that the defendant, by threat of force, knowingly caused a family or household member to believe the defendant would cause imminent physical harm to the family or household member. Domestic Violence ‘By Threat’ is a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. The potential sentence for this crime may include a maximum fine of $250 a maximum jail term of 30 days, and up to five years of probation (community control).

Q: What is Domestic Violence ‘By Force’, and What are the Possible Penalties?

A: In a Domestic Violence ‘By Force’ case, the prosecution must prove one of the following: 1) the defendant knowingly caused or attempted to cause physical harm to a family or household member or 2) the defendant recklessly caused serious physical harm to a family or household member. Domestic Violence ‘By Force’ is typically a misdemeanor of the first degree. The potential sentence for this crime may include a maximum fine of $1,000, a maximum jail term of 180 days, and up to five years of probation (community control).

Q: Are the Penalties Steeper if I Have a Past Domestic Violence Conviction?

A: If the defendant has a prior Domestic Violence conviction, the level of the offense and the potential sentence increase. Additionally, the level of the offense and potential sentence may be enhanced if the defendant knew the victim was pregnant at the time of the offense. If the victim suffered serious physical harm, the prosecution could also seek a charge of Felonious Assault, a felony of the second degree.

Q: What are the Secondary Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction?

A: A Domestic Violence conviction may affect a person’s employment, firearm rights, professional license and military career. A Domestic Violence conviction is considered an offense of violence, and the public record of the conviction is permanent.

Attorneys for Domestic Violence Cases in Columbus and Central Ohio

The Dominy Law firm in Columbus, Ohio represents clients charged with Domestic Violence in Franklin County, Delaware County, and some other counties in central Ohio. 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.