Awards &
Accreditations
As Seen On
Cleveland Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our Cleveland Trial Lawyers Provide Personalized and Focused Legal Representation
Being arrested or charged with a crime can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. When you need a criminal defense lawyer in Cleveland, HMW Law will fight aggressively for your rights. Our team combines courtroom experience, deep legal knowledge, and a commitment to strategic advocacy.
We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with criminal charges. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, our criminal defense attorneys are ready to challenge the evidence and go to bat for you. We have guided countless clients through high-stakes cases, helping them pursue the best possible outcomes.
If your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who won’t back down. Our team will explore every legal option, fighting to protect your liberty, reputation, and future. Contact HMW Law for a free consultation now.
CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES
- Debbie K. Brandon Henderson was punctual and professional to both of my court appearances. I was exceptionally pleased when he was able to get my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him and his team!
- Katie R. These people saved my life. So grateful for the service of Brandon Pokersnik in a recent case. Having to deal with legal issues was one of the most difficult things I have personally ever been through,(...)
- Robert D. My experience with this law group was wonderful. They answered all the questions I had and they were very honest with everything. I believed they worked extremely hard on my case(...)
How May We Help You? Team HMW Wins
Why Should I Choose HMW Law For My Case?
No matter how complicated your legal situation may be, you can have peace of mind when you choose HMW Law. Your case will be in the hands of professionals with extensive experience. Our award-winning legal team proudly represents clients in Cleveland and across the state, offering:
- Decades of Legal Experience
- Support Available 24/7
- Free Case Reviews
- Prestigious Professional Recognitions
Our law firm also has two dedicated teams of lawyers: a team of criminal defense attorneys and a team that focuses exclusively on personal injury cases. Both are prepared to fight hard for you and protect your best interests at every step. Contact HMW Law to schedule a free consultation and get the support you deserve.
Case ResultsNationally Recognized & Award-Winning Law Firm
Why Choose Us?
Personal Attention
The attorneys and staff at HMW Law take time to get to know you and listen to you. You can count on receiving compassionate, caring services without feeling like another case number.
High-Caliber Representation
No matter how complex or seemingly hopeless your case may be, you can rest assured our team will do everything we can to secure the right outcome for your situation.
Passion for Excellence
We constantly strive to be better at what we do and will always seek continuing education opportunities to level up our skills and continue to be at the top of our field.
Transparency and Responsiveness
We will give you our honest assessment of your case, explain your options, and answer your questions with transparency. We are easy to reach and respond to you in a timely manner.
An Experienced, Award-Winning Team
Our firm has been repeatedly recognized by local and national associations, securing multiple awards. But what matters most is the countless satisfied clients we have represented.
Hard-working Attorneys
No matter if you need legal representation for a courtroom battle or just need help negotiating a settlement with an insurance company, our team will go the extra mile to maximize your chances of success.
How Do Lawyers Handle Criminal Charges in Cleveland?
There are several approaches that may be taken in a criminal defense case, and the strategy is tailored to the facts and circumstances of each situation. When the prosecution’s evidence is weak or flawed, the focus may be on preventing a conviction before the case ever reaches court by seeking to have the charges dismissed.
If the case goes to trial, a criminal defense attorney will carefully review the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s arguments, and present a strong case on your behalf. Throughout the process, the legal team will explain what to expect and walk you through each step.
In other cases, a lawyer may negotiate a plea deal. Plea bargaining can reduce the severity of charges or potential penalties, but it typically requires admitting to a lesser offense. Before any decision is made, an attorney will review the terms of the offer and help you make an informed choice.
We Understand the Severity of Criminal Charges
Our team understands the harsh penalties associated with criminal convictions in Cleveland. You could face jail time, fines, and other penalties after a conviction for a misdemeanor or felony-level offense. Fortunately, you do not have to try to take on these charges by yourself. Instead, you can get the professional support you need by retaining a criminal attorney.
From scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence to preparing a strong case for trial, our attorneys act quickly to safeguard your rights and minimize the impact on your life. Our legal team is also highly communicative, promptly answering any questions and keeping you up to date so that you’re never left guessing about what happens next.
Choose a Cleveland criminal defense lawyer from HMW Law and benefit from having a nationally recognized team in your corner. You can move forward with greater confidence knowing your case is in capable hands.
LATEST ARTICLES & INSIGHTS
Safe Rides, Smarter Choices: HMW Law Covers Your Uber or Lyft This New Year’s Eve
Let the countdown begin—but leave the driving to someone else. New Year’s Eve should be a time to celebrate, not…
Dooring Accidents Involving Cyclists in Ohio: Fault and Recovery
How Vulnerable Are Cyclists to Accidents and Injuries? Cycling is a healthy, economical, and eco-friendly way to get around, and…
Ohio’s Rules for Truck Accidents Involving Hazardous Material Spills
Are the Rules Different for Truck Accidents Involving Hazardous Materials Spills? Any collision with a large commercial truck can be…
Navigating Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Litigation in Ohio
How Do Rideshare Companies like Uber and Lyft Handle Accidents in Ohio? Rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, have been…
Mitigating the Impact of Prior Convictions on Current Criminal Charges
Why is it Vital to Factor Any Previous Convictions Into a Comprehensive Defense Strategy? Prior convictions can influence various aspects…
From Texts to Social Media: Digital Evidence in Criminal Cases
How Can Digital Evidence Support a Strong Criminal Defense Case? Digital evidence has rapidly become an integral component of defense…
Liability Issues in Truck Accidents: Navigating Complex Injury Claims
Through the highway system in America, commercial trucks provide supplies to communities, ensuring that people are fed and businesses continue.…
Legal Challenges in Rideshare Accidents: Protecting Passenger Rights
Understanding Rideshare Accident Liability In many rideshare accidents, the driver’s actions or negligence play a central role in determining liability.…
Strategies for Defending Against Serious Sex Crime Charges
Facing allegations of a serious sex crime is a profoundly challenging and distressing experience. These accusations can have profound consequences…
Challenging OVI Evidence in Cleveland
Representation from our Ohio DUI Defense Lawyers Arrested for OVI? Your case is not hopeless! If you are facing OVI charges…
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the differences between a civil case and a criminal case?
At HMW Law, our attorneys handle both civil cases, such as personal injury claims, and criminal cases, such as felonies and homicides. Different courts handle these cases. For example, a state prosecutor brings a criminal case against an individual accused of committing a crime.
The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and it is the prosecutor’s job to present sufficient evidence to prove that the defendant did indeed commit the offenses the state accuses them of. The consequences for a criminal conviction typically include jail or prison time and fines.
In contrast, a plaintiff brings a civil case (such as a personal injury case) to a civil court. The plaintiff is seeking damages compensation for the losses the defendant has allegedly caused them. If the plaintiff can successfully prove their case to a civil court, they may receive monetary compensation for their losses.
Why is it important to hire an attorney as soon as I am charged with a crime?
Early legal representation is important because many decisions in a criminal case are made shortly after charges are filed. Bail conditions, protective orders, license suspensions, and charging classifications may all be addressed early on. Having a competent criminal defense attorney involved at the start can help ensure deadlines are met, rights are preserved, and mistakes in the case are avoided.
If the police charged you with a crime, you may naturally feel scared and worried about what will happen next. In this situation, it may be difficult to remember that being charged with a crime does not automatically mean you will be convicted, especially with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Cleveland on your side.
The sooner you contact a criminal defense lawyer, the sooner they can start working on your case to get your charges reduced or even dismissed when possible.
What are the differences between a felony and a misdemeanor?
In Ohio, the legal system classifies criminal offenses by severity. A misdemeanor is considered a less severe type of crime. Common types of misdemeanor offenses include petty theft of items valued at less than $500, reckless driving, passing bad checks, or driving with a suspended license.
A misdemeanor conviction may result in fines and may or may not lead to jail time. In contrast, a felony offense is much more serious and includes crimes such as murder, manslaughter, drug trafficking, gun-related charges, and assault. A felony conviction may typically result in penalties such as prison time and fines.
Even less severe charges can have lasting consequences, so no matter the severity of the charge, legal guidance is important. A Cleveland criminal defense lawyer from HMW Law can outline your options and help you navigate the legal process.
What happens if I was injured and my insurance claim is denied?
If you filed an insurance claim after being injured in an accident caused by a negligent party and the insurance company denies your claim, your first step should be to ask the insurer to clearly explain the reason for the denial in writing. Understanding why the claim was denied can help you determine what options may be available moving forward.
You do not need to wait for a denial letter before speaking with a lawyer. Contacting a lawyer in Cleveland early in the process can help you avoid missteps and protect your rights. An injury attorney from HMW Law can help you respond to the denial, negotiate with the insurance company, file an appeal, or evaluate whether pursuing litigation makes sense based on the facts of your case.
Why can’t I just represent myself without an attorney?
In both personal injury and criminal cases, it is possible to act as your own attorney and represent yourself. However, it is rarely advisable to do so. For instance, if you are seeking compensation for your injuries after an accident that was not your fault, you will be dealing with an enormous amount of tasks—such as handling insurance phone calls, filling out forms, and gathering evidence to support your case—all while you are trying to recover from your injuries.
Your chances of securing a favorable outcome drop without the legal knowledge and skills a Cleveland criminal defense attorney brings to the table. Even if you are unsure whether you want to hire an attorney for your case, reach out to HMW Law to discuss your situation and learn your options.