A strangulation charge in Ohio can turn your life upside down fast. A conviction could mean prison time, a felony record, and lasting damage to your personal and professional life. At HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys, we know what’s at stake.
You’re not just another case to us. You’re a person facing a scary moment in your life. That’s why we treat every call with urgency, care, and fierce dedication. Our Cleveland strangulation defense lawyer will act fast to protect your rights, investigate the facts, and build your defense.
With over 60 years of combined experience, we have what it takes to challenge serious charges like these. Our Cleveland criminal defense lawyer knows Ohio’s laws inside and out and will not let the system roll over you. Call today to discuss your next steps during a free consultation.
What to Know About Strangulation Charges in Ohio
In 2023, Ohio passed a new law that made strangulation its own crime. It’s no longer just part of a domestic violence charge. It can now be charged as a felony on its own.
Here’s what that means:
- Strangulation is now always a felony in Ohio.
- You don’t need to cause serious injuries to be charged.
- If convicted, you could go to prison, lose your rights, and have a felony record for life.
Police and prosecutors in Ohio take strangulation charges very seriously. These cases often move quickly, so it’s important to speak to a lawyer right away, even if you haven’t been arrested.
Strangulation cases can move quickly. Police officers and prosecutors may rush to judgment without hearing your side. That’s why it’s critical to speak with our felony lawyer in Cleveland immediately after an arrest, even if you think you’re under investigation.
For a free legal consultation with a strangulation defense lawyer serving Cleveland, call 216-774-0000
Our Attorney for Strangulation Charges in Cleveland Can Lead Your Case
At HMW Law—The Ohio Trial Attorneys, your case gets our full attention, not just a quick review. We fight hard for every client, and we’re known for being compassionate and aggressive in the courtroom.
When you hire us, we will:
- Talk with you about what happened and explain your rights
- Look at all the police reports, medical records, and other evidence
- Find problems or weak spots in the prosecutor’s case
- Work with you to build a strong defense strategy
- Speak to the judge or prosecutor for you and, when appropriate, work to negotiate a plea deal, reduced charges, or other sentencing options
- Go to trial if needed and fight hard to protect your future
The sooner we represent you, the sooner we can get to work on your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
Cleveland Strangulation Defense Lawyer Near Me 216-774-0000
Why Choose HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys to Represent You?
We know you have choices when hiring a defense lawyer, but not all law firms are the same. At HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys, we fight for each client as if it’s our life on the line.
Here’s why people choose us:
- Over six decades of combined criminal defense experience
- More than 20 years of serving people across Ohio
- We return calls quickly and keep you informed throughout your case
- We’re selective with our cases so we can give each one our full attention
- We use smart, secure technology to keep you in the loop
We treat you with respect from the first day we work with you because facing a criminal charge is one of the hardest things someone can go through. Damn Right, We Fight!™
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Types of Strangulation Charges and Jail Time in Ohio
Ohio law breaks strangulation into different levels based on how serious the situation is. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Second-Degree Felony: If the person was badly hurt during the strangling
Jail time: Two to eight years - Third–Degree Felony: If the person was in serious danger but not badly hurt
Jail time: Nine to 36 months - Fourth–Degree Felony: If the person was a family member or someone you dated, and they were hurt or put at risk
Jail time: Six to 18 months - Fifth–Degree Felony: If the situation wasn’t as serious, but strangulation still occurred
Jail time: Six to 12 months
The charges can also be more serious if the accused has a violent record or if the person strangled was pregnant.
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Defenses We Could Use in a Cleveland Strangulation Case
Every case we handle is different, but below are defenses that can be used in cases involving strangulation:
- False accusation: Sometimes people lie or exaggerate, especially during arguments or breakups.
- Accident: If you didn’t mean to hurt someone, that can make a big difference.
- Self–defense: If you were trying to protect yourself, your actions may be allowed under the law.
- Not enough evidence: The prosecutor has to prove everything. If they can’t, you should not be found guilty.
Our Cleveland felony strangulation attorney will go through every detail of your situation with you to figure out what defense fits your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Strangulation Charges in Ohio
Facing a strangulation charge in Ohio can be confusing and upsetting. You might have many questions about what this means for your future. Below, we’ve answered some common questions to help you understand the situation better.
Remember, every case is different, so the outcome can be different as well. It’s important to talk to our strangulation criminal defense lawyer in Cleveland about your specific circumstances.
What Is Strangulation Under Ohio Law?
In Ohio, strangulation means using pressure to block someone’s breathing or blood flow by squeezing their neck, throat, or covering their mouth or nose. It doesn’t have to leave a mark or cause a serious injury to be a crime.
In 2023, Ohio made strangulation a felony offense. This means the state treats this act as a serious crime, even if it happens during a fight or argument. Our Cleveland domestic violence lawyer can advise you further on your situation.
During a free, private consultation, they can explain how the law, found at Ohio Revised Code § 2903.18, can affect your case.
What’s the Difference Between a Strangulation Charge and a Domestic Violence Charge?
A domestic violence charge usually means someone is accused of hurting, threatening, or trying to control a family or household member. A strangulation charge means someone is accused of stopping another person’s breathing or blood flow by putting pressure on their neck or mouth.
In Ohio, strangulation can be charged separately, even if it happened during a domestic violence situation. Sometimes, a person may face both charges at the same time.
Will I Go to Jail if I’m Found Guilty?
Felony charges often come with jail time, but it depends on the exact charge and your past record. We’ll work hard to keep you out of jail if possible.
What if the Person Who Called the Police Wants to Drop the Charges?
The decision is up to the prosecutor, not the person who made the complaint. However, it could help your case if they decide not to cooperate.
Do I Need to Leave My Home if I’m Facing a Strangulation Charge?
Maybe. A judge might issue a protection order that says you can’t live with or contact the other person.
Can I Still See My Children?
That depends on the case and whether the court puts any restrictions in place. We can help you fight for your parental rights.
Get Help from a Cleveland Strangulation Defense Lawyer Today
Being accused of strangulation is serious, but it doesn’t mean your life is over. With the right defense, you can fight back. At HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys, we bring skill, care, and strength to every case.
We know this may be the scariest call you’ve ever had to make. When you call us, we’ll listen, guide you through the process, and start building your defense right away. You’ll have a team that respects you, answers your questions, and never leaves you wondering what’s next.
If you are facing strangulation charges, talk to a lawyer who won’t back down. Damn Right, We Fight!™ Call now to speak with a Cleveland strangulation defense atorney from our team who will fight hard for your future.
Call or text 216-774-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
