The Criminal Process in Ohio

First, the police will investigate. They may contact you, show up at your home or job, or obtain a search warrant. 

 

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If the police establish probable cause of the commission of a crime they will arrest you.

 

 

 

 

Alternatively, you may be indicted by a grand jury if probable cause is established. 

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After arrest, you will usually appear before a judge or magistrate within 24-48 hours of the arrest. This is usually called the initial appearance or arraignment. NOTE: If you're held for more than 48 hours without an initial appearance, the 4th amendment generally requires a judicial finding of probable cause.

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If you were not indicted by a grand jury, the next court appearance may be a preliminary hearing depending on the circumstances of the case. 

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Next, the state and I will "hash" things out and try to reach an agreement. This is where the "lawyering" takes place. If the police or prosecution made an error in your case, we will find it.

 

 

 

If you are not 100% satisfied with the outcome, the case may be taken to trial.