The Consequences of Being Convicted on Felony Charges in Ohio

Felony charges are among the most serious criminal offenses in Ohio, carrying severe legal, social, and personal repercussions. A felony conviction can change your life permanently, affecting everything from your freedom to your ability to secure employment. At the Law Office of Fred Ramos, we’re here to help you understand the stakes and explore your options if you’re facing felony charges in Ohio.

Legal Penalties for Felony Convictions in Ohio

Felonies in Ohio are categorized into five degrees, with penalties escalating depending on the severity of the offense:

• Fifth-Degree Felonies: Punishable by 6 to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500.
• Fourth-Degree Felonies: Carry sentences of 6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000.
• Third-Degree Felonies: Result in 9 months to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felonies: Lead to 2 to 8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
• First-Degree Felonies: The most severe, with prison terms ranging from 3 to 11 years and fines up to $20,000.

Certain felonies, such as aggravated murder, carry even harsher penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Beyond the legal penalties, a felony conviction can lead to significant collateral consequences that can impact your life for years to come. These include:

Employment Challenges

A felony conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record, making it difficult to secure employment. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions, particularly for jobs requiring trust or security clearance.

Loss of Civil Rights

Felony convictions often result in the loss of essential civil rights, including:

• The right to vote (in some cases).
• The right to serve on a jury.
• The right to possess or own firearms.

Housing and Education Limitations

Securing housing and educational opportunities can become challenging due to background checks. Landlords and educational institutions may deny applications based on a felony record.

Social Stigma

A felony conviction can lead to social ostracization, affecting personal relationships and community standing. This stigma can be difficult to overcome, even after serving your sentence.

Fighting Felony Charges with the Law Office of Fred Ramos

If you’re facing felony charges, it’s crucial to act quickly and secure skilled legal representation. At the Law Office of Fred Ramos, we understand the gravity of felony cases and the impact they can have on your future. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to providing aggressive defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.

How We Can Help:

1. Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We will carefully review the details of your case, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.
2. Plea Negotiations: In some cases, we can negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
3. Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
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Protect Your Future

A felony conviction in Ohio is life-changing, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal representation, you can fight the charges and work towards a better outcome. Contact the Law Office of Fred Ramos today for a free consultation. Together, we can build a strong defense and help you regain control of your life.