Have you been arrested or accused of elder abuse in Cincinnati, Ohio? If you are convicted, you could face harsh penalties that affect your freedom, finances, and reputation for years to come. However, you still have time to defend yourself with help from an experienced trial attorney at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers.
We are a top-rated criminal defense law firm serving Cincinnati and the surrounding areas. Our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience, and our legal team includes former prosecutors and police officers. We’ve helped clients overcome all types of criminal charges and are confident that we can help you, too.
Contact our Cincinnati elder abuse defense attorneys at (513) 333-0014 for more information and to schedule a free consultation.
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How Suhre & Associates Can Help if You Were Arrested for Elder Abuse in Cincinnati, Ohio
Law enforcement and prosecutors may already assume you’re guilty, no matter what the facts show. Under Ohio law, however, the state must prove its case based on the highest burden of proof standard in the law: “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This gives an experienced defense lawyer room to build an effective response and protect your rights.
Our Cincinnati criminal defense lawyers at Suhre & Associates have built a reputation for getting winning results for our clients. We know how the local courts and prosecutors work because some of us used to work on that side of the criminal justice system. If you hire us, we will use our knowledge and experience to help you at every stage of the process.
You can expect us to:
- Examine the details of the allegations and review all evidence
- File appropriate motions to strengthen your position
- Find and present exculpatory evidence that supports your defense
- Work to have your elder abuse charges reduced or dismissed
- Make sure you understand your rights and options at each step
- Represent you in court hearings and, if needed, at trial
Want to learn more about our legal services? Call our law offices in Cincinnati, OH, today to get started with a free case evaluation.
An Overview of Elder Abuse Law in Ohio
Ohio law on elder abuse is broad and far-reaching. Under state statute, a person may be charged if they are alleged to have knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally caused harm or neglect to a person who is 60 years of age or older. This could include things like physical abuse, emotional or psychological harm, abandonment, financial exploitation, and more.
Mandatory reporters (such as therapists or social workers) are required to notify authorities if they suspect elder abuse. Sometimes, charges are still brought even if the facts are disputed or there is no clear evidence of harm.
Elder abuse can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. The severity of the charge will depend on factors like the type of abuse, whether a weapon or financial loss was involved, and whether the alleged victim suffered serious harm.
What Penalties Do I Face if I’m Convicted of Elder Abuse in Cincinnati?
If you are convicted of elder abuse in Ohio, you could face penalties that impact nearly every area of your life going forward. Your sentence will depend on factors like the specific charges against you, your criminal history, and the overall facts and circumstances of the case.
Potential penalties for elder abuse include:
- Jail or prison sentences for felony-level offenses
- Expensive fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Court-ordered counseling
- Loss of professional licenses or certifications
- A permanent criminal record that may limit job and housing opportunities
Some of these penalties reflect the harsh reality of “collateral consequences,” meaning that a criminal conviction can stay with you long after you’ve served your time.
What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to Elder Abuse Charges?
A charge is not the same as a conviction. Although it may seem like law enforcement and the prosecution already believe you’re culpable for the crime, the truth is that you are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Some potential defenses to elder abuse charges that you can raise include:
- You did not act with the right kind of state of mind, such as with the intent to cause someone harm
- The injury or incident was accidental or related to medical issues, not criminal conduct
- The evidence against you is incomplete or unreliable
- The accusation stems from a misunderstanding or a civil dispute, not abuse
- Your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest
Our criminal defense lawyers will work hard to determine the defense or defenses best suited for your case. Don’t lose hope; you’ll have an award-winning legal team if you hire us.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Cincinnati Elder Abuse Defense Attorney
Being charged with elder abuse in Cincinnati is a serious matter that can change your life. Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers has the local insight and track record of success needed to fight for you from start to finish, including at trial if necessary.
Contact our law offices today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Cincinnati elder abuse defense lawyer.
