Top best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Columbus near me

I primarily handle criminal cases and family law related matters, though I consider myself a genreal practicioner.  I am driven to help people resolve their legal issues.  I provide my clients with my personal cell phone number, and I make myself available 24/7.  I have a proven track record at trial and through the plea bargaining process.  I am licensed to practice law in Ohio and Federal Court.  I primarily practice in Franklin county, OH; however, I do practice throughout OH (I have practiced in over 10 different OH counties).  I am passionate, affordable, client-serving, and results-oriented.  Please contact me for a free thrity-minute consultation.

I obtained my education at West Virginia University, the University of Oklahoma and Capital University.  I have been living in Central Ohio since 1998 and I have been practicing law for 8 years.  I have experience in a variety of areas and am able to assist clients with many of their legal needs.  I offer personal attention to my clients and payment plans are available.  I am a member of the Ohio State Bar Association, the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Central Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.  I volunteer as the recruiting coordinator for the Reynoldsburg High School football team.

I have tried over 300 Jury Trials including atleast 15 Capital Murder Cases.

I have represented clients in matters ranging from OVI/DUI and simple contract disputes to complex business litigation and first degree murder. In recognition of these accomplishments, Ohio Super Lawyers® honored me as a “Rising Star” for 2012, 2013, and 2014.. I am a native of Bexley, Ohio. In my free time, I volunteer at the Columbus Legal Aid Society’s Brief Legal Advice Clinics and Adult Shelter Assistance Project and am an officer of the Board of Trustees of NNEMAP, one of the largest food pantries in the Central Ohio Area.  I also participates in Pelotonia, am an assistant class agent for Carleton College, and provides pro bono counsel to Hogar Irekua, an orphanage in Morelia, Mexico.

I have proven experience in criminal defense law. I am hard-working, dedicated,  thorough and will provide a vigorous defense. I am also currently a guest lecturer on OVI Law with the Crossroads Recovery "Driving Intervention Program." Call me at. I will fight for your rights.

I have over thirty years of trial experience and I'm a former prosecutor. I know the court system inside and out. My clients receive expert counsel and the attention each case deserves.. The vast majority of my cases are in Franklin County Ohio and I have an excellent reputation here that often helps my clients considerably. I built my reputation on hard work, attention to detail, and honest dealings with clients and prosecutors.

I graduated Cum Laude from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. During my time at Thomas M. Cooley, I served in many organizations such as the Appellate Advocacy Board, Trial Advocacy Board, & Law Review.  In addition, I volunteered my time as Chairman of Michigan Youth in Government and tutored many law students in Criminal Procedure, Torts, and Civil Procedure.  As well as graduating at the top of my class, I was awarded the Leadership Achievement Award and the Moot Court Service Award.  This experience through law school has set a solid foundation to provide superior legal representation for my clients.. As a professional, I have worked at the Office of the Ohio Attorney General assisting in the defense of this state against any complex civil claim brought against it.  I have also worked at the Washtenaw County Public Defender’s Office vigorously defending individuals charged with felonies.. After my time at Thomas M. Cooley Law School and working with these outstanding government agencies, I decided to partner with The Meranda Law Firm, Ltd.  This decision has allowed me to dedicate and commit myself to each and every client.  With 100% of my attention on each client, I am capable of dedicating myself to a level of preparation that clients deserve.. Since this partnership, I have been awarded Ohio's Rising Star two consecutive years by SuperLawyer's Magazine.  Additionally, I have been recognized by CEO Magazine as one of Ohio's top criminal defense lawyers.. I also served my country proudly for eight years in the United States Marine Corps.  During my time in the Marine Corps, I came to appreciate what freedom in this country truly means.  It is this freedom I continue to dedicate my life to preserving now as an attorney.

Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio with a mother who served as a United States Attorney, I knew at a young age I wanted to be an attorney one day and serve my communicy just like her.  I graduated from The Ohio State Univeristy Moritz College of Law in 2013, and have made a home of the city of Columbus.  My goal is to give back to my community everything it gives to me and more, which is why I serve in the area of family law and domestic relations.  By providing reasonable fees and flexible payment plans I am able to promote access to the legal system for individuals who thought it impossible.. Family law matters can be the most challenging types of cases for an attorney to handle because of the complex law, emotions involved and the extremely serious consequences to the client's children, finances, and future if the case is not handled correctly. A good family law attorney will have both the technical skill and experience to successfully represent their client and will also exhibit the compassion and understanding to make the process as painless as it possibly can be.. Contact me to retain an attorney who will work diligently to solve your problem. I look forward to meeting you and helping you with your case.. Give me a call at to set up your FREE 30-minute consultation.

Frederick D. Benton, Jr. is a graduate of St. Joseph’s College and Capital University Law School.  He is the principal of a law firm bearing his name.  He is licensed to practice law in the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals, U.S. District Court, and the Ohio Supreme Court.  His practice includes all major criminal and civil litigation, business, real estate, and personal injury.. He is active in a number of community, civic, and professional organizations.  His community involvement includes:  Governing Board - Gloria S. Friend Christian Academy; Mt. Olivet Baptist Church; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity; The Leadership Experience; Urban Resurrection Community Development Corporation; and the Urban Minority Alcoholism Outreach Program of Franklin County, Inc. (past member);. His professional activities include: John Mercer Langston Bar Association; National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Columbus Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; National Conference of Black Lawyers, Ohio State Bar Association; Columbus Bar Association (past member); and the Federal Bar Association (past member).

Former Outside Counsel and Special Counsel to the Attorney General, State of Ohio. Entrepreuner-Founder: Ohio Dispute Resolution Company,Del's Lemonade of Ohio and Cruisin' on the Riverfront Classic Car Show. Current Member, Board of Trustees, Deaf Services Center. Past Member; Board of Trustees, Contemporary Amercian Theatre Company (CATCO) and Center for New Directions. Life Member, Kappa Kappa Psi, Alpha Chapter, National Honorary Band Fraternity. Member; Sierra Club, Columbus Zoo, Wexner Center, WOSU, Chevy Classics Club, US Bowling Congress, RI Reds Historical Society and Columbus Museum. Honorary Kentucky Colonel. Youth Member: DeMolay and Boy Scouts (incl Philmont Ranch). Delegate-At-Large, 1976 National Presidential Convention

Erica Harris Young is known for her passionate and zealous advocacy of her clients.  It is her philosophy that her job is to ensure that every client’s rights are preserved; and she is willing to fight for that by ensuring that she knows each client’s case inside and out.. Erica graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Comparative Ethnic and American Studies with a focus on critical legal and race theory. She then entered the evening program of Capital University Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctorate degree magna cum laude while working full time at a prominent civil law firm.. Erica is licensed to practice law in the state of Ohio and before the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. Additionally, Erica is a certified Guardian ad Litem through the Supreme Court of Ohio.. She sees clients as people, not cases, and as such works for and with each client to ensure the very best possible outcome.

Dustin Blake is one of Ohio’s premier criminal defense attorneys and trial lawyers.  Mr. Blake has represented hundreds of individuals charged with felony and misdemeanor crimes.   Mr. Blake also handles select high stakes civil lawsuits.  Mr. Blake has been recognized by peers and colleagues as a Top Lawyer in Central Ohio by Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and rated by Martindale-Hubbell as an AV® rated attorney, the highest such rating available to any individual lawyer.  AV Preeminent® is a significant rating accomplishment - a testament to the fact that a lawyer's peers rank him at the highest level of professional excellence.  Mr. Blake is a member of many legal organizations including The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers, which is an invitation-only national organization, composed of America’s Top Trial Lawyers.Mr. Blake is admitted to practice before the Ohio Supreme Court, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit.  Practice Areas: Criminal Law:  Federal / State Crimes, Felony / Misdemeanor Crimes, Appeals.  White Collar Crimes,  Drug Trafficking / Possession / Paraphernalia,  DUI / OVI / DWI,  Money Laundering,  Embezzlement / Forgery / Theft / Fraud,  Crimes of Violence,  Sex Crimes,  Computer Crimes,  Gun Crimes,  Extradition,  Parole Violations,  Expungements. Civil Litigation.

Daniel Sabol is one of Ohio’s most recognized and skilled criminal defense attorneys. His talent has been acknowledged by many Ohio and National organizations, including America’s Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and various Columbus affiliates. Dan is a regular speaker at seminars across the Country. In fact, his expertise is often sought by other defense attorneys, prosecutors, judges, and even officers.. Dan’s experience and training are unmatched by any attorney in Ohio. In 2017, he became the first private attorney to be accepted into the National Forensics College, which covered a wide array of advanced tactics including DNA, digital forensics, ballistics, and false confessions. Dan has spent weeks in laboratories learning how to test solid drugs and bodily substances, which has enabled him to know and understand when the state’s experts make mistakes. Dan is also qualified as an instructor in standardized field sobriety testing, and typically has as much—or more—training and understanding than the officers he’s questioning.. Dan’s true passion lies in trial practice. He is one of only 14 attorneys in Ohio to be board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Dan has earned a reputation as a savvy and aggressive trial attorney, and he brings passion and enthusiasm to every case he tries.

Columbus Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney W. Joseph Edwards grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is an avid hockey fan, and enjoys learning more about Russia, including speaking the Russian language.. Joe is a former prosecuting attorney and started his Columbus, Ohio law practice in 1990. Attorney Edwards has tried over one hundred felonies before a jury, argued over ten cases before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, and more than seven cases before the Ohio Supreme Court. He has handled over one-hundred fifty criminal appeals and has represented persons accused in a diverse array of matters, from complex mortgage and securities fraud to civil wrongful death actions.. With regard to the Columbus, Ohio OVI/DUI side of the practice:. From his law offices in Columbus, Edwards practices primarily in Central Ohio, focusing his practice in Franklin, Delaware, Madison, Licking, Pickaway, Ross, Fairfield and Muskingum Counties. Additionally, practicing throughout the Sixth Circuit, focusing mainly in the Northern and Southern Federal Districts of Ohio.

Brandon E. Shroy has spent more than a decade as a practicing attorney in Central Ohio, focusing primarily on criminal defense and traffic law. After graduating from Capital University Law he accepted a prosecution position at the Columbus City Attorney's Office. Brandon quickly developed a reputation as an aggressive litigator with an ability to expertly apply detailed legal knowledge to his cases with outstanding results.. With experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, Brandon is adept at perceiving and addressing weaknesses in the prosecution's case, which has proved an invaluable asset in his criminal defense practice.. As a trial attorney, Brandon has been invited to consult with local law enforcement agencies to train officers on the complex issues that arise during hearings and trials. He has consulted and trained officers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Columbus Division of Police, Westerville Police Department, Grove City Police Department, Hilliard Police Department, Worthington Division of Police, and others.. Brandon practices in all central Ohio courts including the Federal District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, the Courts of Common Pleas, Municipal courts and Mayor's courts.. As your attorney, Brandon E. Shroy will utilize his extensive criminal defense experience and leverage his reputation as an aggressive litigator to fight on your behalf and deliver the best possible outcome for your case.

Bob Cochran is a former prosecutor, trial lawyer, and litigator with over 26 years of experience. In 2018, he left a large law firm in Columbus, Ohio to open his own firm and focus on representing individuals and businesses charged with a crime or facing a government investigation. He also focuses on representing health care providers under investigation for Medicare, Medicaid, and other types of health care fraud, as well as licensing and regulatory problems and issues.. Bob previously served as an Assistant County Prosecutor and Assistant Ohio Attorney General where he prosecuted environmental crimes and later served as the Assistant Chief of Ohio’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Before starting his own firm, Bob practiced at Ice Miller LLP (formerly Schottenstein, Zox & Dunn) where he was a member of the health care department, practicing white collar criminal defense, health care law, and commercial litigation.  He is also a Criminal Justice Act Panel Attorney in the Southern District of Ohio.

BIOGRAPHY OF M. SHAWN DINGUS. Family History. Shawn was born and raised in Flatwoods, Kentucky, a small town located in the eastern region of the state. His father worked as a railroad employee for C&O Railroad, Chessie System and CSX Transportation, and his mother cleaned homes and businesses on a part-time basis. After graduating from Russell High School with honors in 1990, he was the first in his family to attend college, choosing to attend Morehead State University on a  scholarship.. Undergraduate Studies. As a student at Morehead, Shawn was very involved in student government, including serving as president of his fraternity, Lambda Chi Alpha, serving as executive vice-president of the IntraFraternal Council, and running for office in the Student Government Association. In 1994, he was named the University's Greek Man of the Year, for his dedication and commitment to the fraternal system at the university. He graduated from Morehead in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts in Government and a minor in Philosophy.. Law School. In 1995, Shawn elected to attend the University of Akron School of Law, where he continued to serve in student government, first as Treasurer of the Student Bar Association, and next as President of Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity. Shawn was also appointed to serve as the law school's representative to the American Bar Association in 1997, and served as its representative at the ABA National Convention in San Francisco, California in 1998. In that same year, he received his Juris Doctorate from Akron, graduating in the top 10% of his class, with a cum laude distinction.. Career. Upon graduation and passage of the state bar exam in 1998, Shawn accepted a position as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Morrow County, Ohio. He initially served the county as the prosecutor assigned to prosecute juvenile delinquency cases and represent the Morrow County Children Services Agency in cases involving abused and neglected children. He was later assigned to the adult criminal division, where he prosecuted adults charged with misdemeanors and felonies, which ranged from simple speeding violations to Aggravated Murder.. In 2000, Shawn left the prosecutor's office and accepted an associate position with The Plymale Partnership in downtown Columbus, where he represented individuals in civil matters, which included representation in bad faith actions against insurance companies and wrongful death actions. During his tenure at The Plymale Partnership, he served on the board of the Franklin County Trial Lawyers Association and was presented with the Association's Slugger Award in 2002 for his dedication and commitment to injured victims and their families.. In 2003, Shawn decided to set-out on his own and opened his own law firm, The Law Office of M. Shawn Dingus.   In 2009, Shawn joined Columbus attorney Ronald Plymale to form the firm of Plymale & Dingus, where he  represent individuals and small businesses in civil and criminal matters. He has had the honor of representing hundreds of individuals and businesses in cases ranging from wrongful death actions to divorce and child custody matters.. Shawn is involved in his community by serving on numerous professional and political boards and committees, as well as volunteering for various causes. He is a Board of Trustees member for the Central Community House and also serves on the Board of Directors of the American Constitution Society.  He is also a member of the First Congregational Church in downtown Columbus.. Areas of Practice. Education. Office:

Attorney William H. Nesbitt limits his private practice to Criminal Defense in Ohio state courts and Federal Court.. Will focuses on government investigations, drug crime, intervention in lieu of conviction, sex offenses involving false sex abuse allegations, computer internet crime, white collar economic crime, domestic violence, violation of protection order defense, assault, DUI, serious vehicular crime and all other general crime in Ohio.. He assists clients that are currently under investigation and works to limit their criminal exposure. Will is widely regarded as one of the top “up and coming” criminal defense lawyers in Ohio having already obtained numerous acquittals, dismissals and reduced sentencing for thousands of clients.. Will is a member of the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Columbus Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and is the current criminal law committee chair for the Central Ohio Association for Justice.. Will has been continuously selected by his peers as a Super Lawyer Rising Star since 2015. He has also been recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyer, and a Top Lawyer by Columbus CEO Magazine. As a preeminent source of knowledge in his field, Will is often called upon by news stations and talk radio shows to speak on matters of criminal law and is regularly invited to speak to his peers at numerous continuing legal education courses.. Will earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana University and continued to Capital University Law School in Columbus, OH to earn his juris doctorate degree. During law school Will worked in the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office and clerked for a Municipal Court Judge. After law school graduation he was employed as a trial staff attorney in the Public Defender’s Office. He is licensed to practice law in Ohio and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio.. While attending law school Will met his wife, Laura. Laura is an attorney at the Nesbitt Law Firm and focuses her practice on consumer bankruptcy law. They have three children and reside in Dublin, OH. Will enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, working out and watching sports.. Mr. Nesbitt earned his bachelor's degree from Indiana University Bloomington. He received his J.D. from Capital University Law School. While Mr. Nesbitt attended law school, he was active in the legal fraternity Phi Alpha Delta and the Environmental Law Society.. For his exceptional service in the field of criminal defense, Mr. Nesbitt was selected to:. 2015 Member of American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2015-2019 Super Lawyers® list of Rising Stars2014-2016 list of Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyer2015-2016 Columbus CEO Top Lawyer2015 "10 Best" Attorneys in Ohio2015 Top 100 DUI Attorneys by The National Advocacy for DUI DefenseOhio State Bar Association, Columbus Bar Association, the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (OACDL), and the Central Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (COACDL).

Attorney in Columbus, Ohio.  Admitted to the bar in 2003.  Primary Practice areas are Criminal Defense, Domestic Relations and Personal Injury.

Attorney Colin E. McNamee, an exceptional legal professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the defense of complex criminal cases. Throughout his career, Colin has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to providing discreet and thorough representation for his clients, often achieving successful outcomes that remain out of the public eye. Colin understands that facing criminal charges can be one of the most challenging times in an individual’s life, and he approaches each case with compassion and a deep understanding of the personal stakes involved. His decision to specialize in criminal defense stems from his desire to be a steadfast ally for those navigating life's most difficult obstacles. Known for his detail-oriented nature and passionate advocacy, Colin is unyielding in his efforts to mitigate the challenges posed by the government.. His holistic approach to criminal defense includes intensive investigation and meticulous preparation, which are essential to achieving favorable results. Colin invests significant time and energy into each case, recognizing that his clients deeply value their families, freedoms, and livelihoods. He has cultivated extensive experience in risk management, particularly for white-collar and business clients, helping them ensure compliance with laws and regulations while navigating complex legal landscapes.. Prior to establishing KM Law Firm, Colin was a partner at a respected Columbus-based criminal defense firm, where he earned recognition for his outstanding client-centered representation. He excels at framing effective defenses and leveraging available evidence and resources to maintain a strategic advantage in the face of prosecution.. Colin's qualities of patience, timing, and skill make him a distinguished advocate in the criminal justice system. He proudly offers his clients not only expertise but also a personalized approach tailored to their specific needs.

At Hendricks Law Office LLC, we are committed to providing experienced, compassionate, and results-driven legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges or dealing with the aftermath of serious auto accidents in Columbus, Ohio, and the surrounding areas. Founded by Garrett Hendricks—a lifelong Central Ohio resident—our firm understands the unique challenges and emotional toll that come with being accused of a crime or injured in an accident.. Garrett Hendricks brings over 15 years of legal experience to the courtroom and has helped hundreds of clients navigate complex legal issues. Whether you're facing a speeding ticket, DUI, drug charge, felony, or even a murder accusation, Garrett has the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight for you. There is no case too big or too small—every client deserves strong, skilled representation.. In addition to criminal defense, we also represent individuals injured in auto accidents. From minor fender benders to catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims, we are dedicated to pursuing justice and fair compensation for our clients. We understand how overwhelming these situations can be, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.. Our mission is simple: to provide exceptional legal counsel, fight for the best possible outcome, and treat every client with the respect, honesty, and personalized attention they deserve. As an experienced trial lawyer in Columbus, Ohio, Garrett is passionate about protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.. At Hendricks Law Office, you're not just another case—you’re a person who deserves a dedicated advocate. Let us help you through the legal process with clarity, care, and a commitment to results.

Andrew is originally from the Toledo area.  He moved to Columbus for school.  Andrew decided to stay because he enjoys this wonderful city, especially the golf courses.  On top of golf, Andrew plays rec league softball, basketball, and sand volleyball.  He is also an avid Buckeyes and Blue Jackets fan.

Ajmeri Hoque was born in Bangladesh and raised in New York. She and her family moved to Columbus, Ohio when she began her undergraduate career at The Ohio State University. While attending OSU, she fell in love with the city and decided to obtain her law degree at Capital University. During law school, Ajmeri completed courses in Immigration and International Law which lead to her desire to practice criminal and immigration law.. After completing law school, she and her husband moved back to New York for three years. While in New York, Ajmeri passed the New York Bar Exam and practiced law there as well. She practiced securities law and immigration law at a private firm. She also volunteered as a domestic attorney and was honored for her dedication to pro bono work.. Ajmeri returned back to Columbus with her family two years ago. Since then, she worked as a Municipal Court Prosecutor in Lancaster, Ohio where she prosecuted OVIs, DUIs, Thefts, Domestic Violence, as well as many other misdemeanors crimes. She was first chair in 18 jury trials and had weekly trials. Her experience as a Prosecutor gives her the unique perspective to now defend people. Ajmeri is able to look at every criminal case through the eyes of a Prosecutor which allows her to find the best defense possible for every client.

Aggressive and affordable criminal defense and small business attorney. Attorney David Johnson graduated cum laude from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Criminology. I then went on to earn my Juris Doctorate from the University of Toledo College of Law.. I have worked for public defender's and prosecutor's offices. These experiences will allow him to aggressively advocate on your behalf because I have the knowledge of how criminal courts work and how prosecutor's handle cases.. Upon passing the July 2014 Ohio Bar Exam, I opened Johnson Legal, LLC. Johnson Legal specializes in offering excellent representation at an affordable price. Unlike many law firms, I personally am involved in every case from start to finish. This allows me to be intimately aware of the facts of each case and provide the best service to my clients, such as negotiating better deals for small business owners and effectively defending clients in court.. I am available at any time to answer your questions. I am dedicated to providing outstanding legal representation at a reasonable cost. Contact me at or visit the Johnson Legal, LLC website at