July 25, 2025 | Domestic Violence
Ohio law treats domestic violence seriously. If you’re accused of harming or threatening a family or household member in Cincinnati, the consequences can severely impact your freedoms going forward. Depending on the facts and circumstances of your case, you might face a misdemeanor or a felony charge that can lead to serious penalties.
Learning about how these charges work under Ohio law is key to protecting your rights and future. Read on for more information, and contact an attorney for a free case evaluation if you need legal help.
What the Law Says About Domestic Violence in Ohio
Domestic violence is addressed under Ohio Revised Code § 2919.25. It covers acts of physical harm, attempts to cause harm, and threats that place someone in fear of injury. To qualify as domestic violence, the alleged victim must be a family or household member. This includes spouses, former spouses, live-in partners, parents, children, and others who share a household.
There are three main actions that could lead to a domestic violence charge in Ohio:
- Knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm
- Recklessly causing serious harm
- Threatening someone with force to make them believe they’re in danger
The level of the offense depends on factors such as the nature of the conduct and, if applicable, the criminal history of the accused.
When Domestic Violence Becomes a Felony
Not every domestic violence case results in a felony. Many are charged as misdemeanors. However, there are certain situations where the charge can be elevated to a felony under Ohio law.
You could face felony charges if:
- You have prior domestic violence convictions
- The alleged victim was pregnant at the time of the incident
- The accused is believed to have used a weapon or caused serious physical harm
A felony domestic violence conviction often means prison time, a permanent criminal record, and other penalties imposed by the court. It can also involve collateral consequences, such as difficulty finding housing or employment.
Does the Victim Need to Be Injured?
In some cases, no physical injury is required. A person can still be charged with domestic violence for making threats if those threats were serious enough to cause fear. The law focuses not just on physical harm but also on actions that put others in danger or make them believe they are at risk.
This means that, depending on the circumstances, even arguments or verbal confrontations can be used as the basis for criminal charges.
What if You’re Being Falsely Accused?
False accusations do happen. Sometimes they arise during breakups or custody disputes. Other times, they stem from misunderstandings or miscommunication. If you’ve been accused of domestic violence but believe the charges are unjust, you’ll need to act quickly.
A defense lawyer can help you gather evidence and challenge the state’s version of events, working to have your charges dismissed if at all possible. It’s also important to avoid violating any protective orders or having contact with the alleged victim, whether or not the accusation is true.
Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help Today
Being accused of domestic violence can carry lasting consequences. You may be facing jail time, losing your job, or having limited contact with your children. These charges are taken seriously by prosecutors and judges. The sooner you speak with a Cincinnati criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of protecting yourself.
A respected domestic violence lawyer at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can review your case and help you prepare the strongest defense possible under Ohio law. Contact us today to set up a free initial consultation.
Contact the Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati Law Office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Cincinnati
300 W 4TH St,
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 333-0014
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