January 27, 2026 | Domestic Violence
Domestic violence laws in Ohio are strict, aiming to protect people from more than just outright physical attacks. A person can be charged with domestic violence if they knowingly cause or try to cause physical harm to someone in their family or household. The law also covers situations where serious harm results from recklessness, such as failing to prevent dangerous consequences.
Even threats alone can be criminal. If a defendant has threatened someone with force and made them reasonably believe they’re about to be hurt, that’s enough for charges. It’s important to understand that under Ohio law, an actual physical injury is not always needed to meet the threshold. Credible and immediate threats are often taken just as seriously.
This article explains the definition of domestic violence under Ohio law, clarifies who is protected under the law, and outlines the corresponding penalties.
Who Is Protected Under Ohio’s Domestic Violence Laws?
Ohio goes further than just protecting married couples in domestic violence cases.
The law protects a wide range of people under the “family or household member” definition:
- Anyone who is a current spouse, an ex-spouse, or someone who formerly lived together in a relationship similar to marriage.
- Parents and children, including foster parents and foster children, whether related by blood, marriage, or the foster system.
- Various relatives, such as siblings, in-laws, grandparents, or anyone connected by blood, marriage, or foster relationships.
- The statute specifically lists the “other parent” of a shared child (this could be someone you’ve never lived with but shares a biological or legal connection through your child)
Ohio’s definitions are intentionally broad so anyone at risk from an intimate, family, or household relationship can find legal protection from abuse or threatening conduct.
Domestic Violence Crimes and Penalties in Ohio
Domestic violence in Ohio is treated very seriously, and the law covers a wide range of offenses. The severity of the crime determines whether you’re looking at a misdemeanor or a felony, and the consequences vary accordingly.
Threats (No Injury): Misdemeanor (Fourth Degree)
If someone is charged with making threats of violence against a family or household member with no physical injury, they can be convicted of a fourth-degree misdemeanor. This carries a potential penalty of up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250.
Defendants should take even these “lower-level” threats seriously, as convictions for them can trigger stricter penalties in future cases.
Causing Harm: Misdemeanor (First Degree)
When actual physical harm is caused to a family or household member (even if the injuries are minor), the charge escalates to a first-degree misdemeanor. Penalties increase, with a possible sentence of 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
A conviction can have lasting effects on employment, housing, and access to your children.
With Prior Qualifying Convictions – Felony Charges
If a person has previously been convicted of domestic violence or violence-related crimes on their record, new accusations of causing harm are generally charged more seriously. These cases may be bumped up to fourth- or third-degree felonies, depending on the person’s criminal history.
Fourth-degree felony convictions carry up to 18 months in prison and fines as high as $5,000. Third-degree felony convictions can carry a sentence of up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Knowledge of Pregnancy
Penalties for domestic violence rise significantly when certain aggravating factors are present, like the victim is pregnant and the offender knows about the pregnancy. In these situations, charges are often more severe under Ohio law and can transition from misdemeanors to felonies.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Cincinnati Criminal Defense Lawyers at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers Today
Early legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of a domestic violence case or any criminal charge. Having a lawyer at your side from the start means you get clear guidance on your rights and help navigate police questioning.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can negotiate with prosecutors and try to get the best possible outcome for you in your case. The earlier you seek help, the more options you have for building a strong defense and protecting your future.
If you’re facing domestic violence charges in Ohio, the consequences can be severe. Don’t navigate the legal system on your own. Contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation with a Cincinnati criminal defense attorney, give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati Law Office.
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