Facing violent crime charges can turn your life upside down fast. Your freedom, reputation, and future are all on the line. Don’t put off getting help. Call Moermond & Mulligan, LLC at (937) 228-9790 today to talk with a violent crimes defense lawyer who’s ready to fight for you.

Violent Crime Allegations Carry Heavy Consequences

Crimes of violence are some of the most serious offenses in Ohio. Offenses such as assault, battery, or using a gun during a crime are taken very seriously by police, prosecutors, and even the public. Sometimes, just being accused of a serious criminal offense involving violence can hurt your reputation, your job, and your relationships.

If someone is found guilty of a violent act, they may face imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Many violent felonies mean mandatory prison time, especially if weapons or serious injuries are involved. For example, under Ohio law, felony assault can lead to several years in prison and serious consequences for the rest of a person’s life.

In Ohio, a felony conviction can remain on your record indefinitely, making it challenging to secure employment, rent an apartment, obtain specific licenses, or even own a firearm.

Anyone arrested, charged, or questioned in connection with a violent incident should seek legal help as soon as possible. Acting quickly can make a big difference in what happens next and help protect your rights.

Types of Violent Crimes Prosecuted in Dayton

Prosecutors in Dayton deal with a wide range of violent wrongdoings, each with its own unique rules and punishments. Moermond & Mulligan, LLC helps people who are charged with crimes of:

• Felony Assault – Assault charges elevate to felonies when they involve a weapon or cause serious bodily injury. Prosecutors often pursue harsh sentences, citing concerns for public safety.
• Battery Charges – Battery involves unlawful, intentional physical contact that causes harm. Even without severe injuries, battery charges can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record.
• Gun Crime Offenses – Using, possessing, or brandishing a firearm during a violent act increases penalties substantially. Ohio law mandates prison time for certain gun-related offenses.
• Domestic Violence – Allegations of violence against a spouse, partner, or family member often trigger restraining orders, child custody issues, and significant legal consequences.
• Robbery and Aggravated Robbery – Robbery becomes a violent crime when force, threats, or weapons are involved. Aggravated robbery charges carry longer prison sentences and higher fines.
• Homicide Offenses – Homicide encompasses murder, manslaughter, and negligent homicide. These charges carry the most severe penalties, including potential life sentences.

Prosecutors often add charges along the lines of using a deadly weapon, gang involvement, or drug offenses to aggressive crime cases. Penalties are even more severe for those with prior criminal records.

Penalties for Violent Crimes in Ohio

Ohio has harsh penalties for high-level felonies. Felony assault can mean years in prison, while aggravated assault, armed robbery, or gun crimes can bring even longer sentences. The stakes become higher if prosecutors allege:

• Use of a firearm or deadly weapon
• Infliction of serious bodily injury
• Prior violent criminal history
• Crimes committed near schools or involving minors
• Crimes linked to gang activity

Consequences for a violent offense conviction can include:

• Prison or jail time
• Heavy fines
• Lengthy probation or community control
• Loss of firearm rights
• Court-ordered treatment or anger management
• Restraining orders
• Challenges finding housing or employment

A conviction may also result in parole consequences. A new offense or technical parole violation could send you back to prison, even for minor infractions.

Self-Defense and Ohio’s Stand Your Ground Law

Ohio’s stand your ground law gives you the right to defend yourself without retreating if you’re lawfully present in a place. But the law doesn’t automatically protect every use of force. Courts examine:

• Whether you reasonably believed you faced an imminent threat
• Whether your response was proportionate to the threat
• Whether you escalated the situation unnecessarily

A valid self-defense claim can result in reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal. However, asserting self-defense requires strong evidence and careful legal arguments. Moermond & Mulligan, LLC understands how to present your side of the story and argue that you acted out of necessity, not aggression.

Early Intervention Matters in Violent Crime Cases

The days after an arrest or criminal charge are critical. Law enforcement acts quickly to collect statements, physical evidence, and witness testimony. Meanwhile, prosecutors start building a case aimed at securing a conviction.

Getting legal help early means having someone act quickly to protect your rights. An experienced defense lawyer can:

• Investigate evidence before it disappears or changes
• Locate and interview witnesses
• Preserve helpful surveillance or electronic data
• Challenge weak evidence
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or a plea agreement
• Prepare you for key hearings like your bail hearing

Without experienced legal help, you risk getting caught up in police questioning, making statements that damage your defense, or missing chances to reduce or fight charges. Don’t leave your future in the hands of the state – take action as soon as possible.

How Moermond & Mulligan, LLC Builds Your Defense Against Violent Crime Charges

Crimes of violence often involve complicated facts, intense emotions, and the prosecution’s job is to prove everything beyond a reasonable doubt. A charge doesn’t mean a conviction, and we work hard to protect your freedom and future by digging into every detail, such as:

• Police reports for errors, inconsistencies, or omissions
• Forensic evidence for flaws, contamination, or mishandling
• Witness statements for bias, contradictions, or unreliable memories
• Surveillance footage that may confirm or contradict the prosecution’s version of events
• Your personal history for mitigating factors, such as mental health issues, lack of prior convictions, or evidence of provocation

We also scrutinize how officers conducted the criminal investigation and whether your rights were violated during police interrogations. If constitutional violations occurred, we fight to exclude tainted evidence from the case.

Depending on the facts, several legal defenses may apply in cases regarding felony assault or similar charges, including:

• Self-Defense Claims – Ohio law allows reasonable force if you believe you’re in imminent danger, though courts will analyze whether your response was proportionate to the threat.
• Justifiable Force – Sometimes, defending another person under immediate threat can legally justify your actions, but evidence must support your belief that intervention was necessary.
• False Accusations – Alleged victims or witnesses may exaggerate or fabricate events, leading to wrongful charges.
• Lack of Intent – Many violent crimes require proof of specific intent to harm. Without it, charges might not hold up in court.

Our goal is to find the most vigorous defense for your unique situation. That might mean pursuing an acquittal at trial or negotiating a plea to reduce charges or sentencing. Whatever the path, the focus stays on minimizing consequences and protecting your future. 

Protecting Your Future from Lasting Consequences

A conviction for a violent act affects more than just prison time or fines. It can:

• Damage your professional reputation
• Trigger immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Cost you your firearm rights
• Block specific licenses or certifications
• Complicated child custody, adoption, or family matters
• Carry lifelong stigma

Even an accusation can harm relationships, jobs, and housing prospects. Some offenses involving force or threats can’t be sealed in Ohio and remain visible on background checks permanently.

A strong defense focuses on protecting your freedom and future. The goal is to prevent a felony conviction, avoid jail time, and reduce the long-term impact on your life.

FAQs About Violent Crimes Defense in Dayton

If you’ve been charged with a violent act, you probably have questions about what lies ahead. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns we hear from clients in the Dayton area.

What happens during a preliminary hearing for a violent crime charge in Dayton?

A preliminary hearing is your first significant chance to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. The prosecutor presents witnesses or other evidence to establish probable cause. Your defense lawyer can cross-examine witnesses and argue that the evidence doesn’t justify moving forward to trial. A strong showing at this hearing can sometimes result in reduced charges or a dismissal of the charges.

How do Dayton judges typically set bail in violent crime cases?

Judges consider things like how serious the charges are, your record, community ties, and whether you’re a danger to others when setting bail. High-level felonies, especially with weapons or severe injuries, can mean higher bail or no bail at all. A good lawyer can fight for fair bail terms at your hearing.

What resources are available in Dayton for individuals falsely accused of a violent offense?

People facing false accusations can find help through local legal aid organizations, mental health providers, and community groups that support individuals involved in the criminal justice system. However, your most important resource is a skilled defense lawyer who can protect your rights and challenge the allegations against you.

If you’re facing felony assault or similar charges in Dayton, don’t go through it alone. The right defense can make all the difference for your freedom and your future. 

Call Moermond & Mulligan, LLC to Protect Your Rights

Being accused of a violent crime can feel overwhelming and scary. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Moermond & Mulligan, LLC is here to stand up for your rights and help protect your future. Speak with a criminal defense lawyer who’s ready to fight for you and build a strong defense. Contact us today at (937) 228-9790 to get started with an initial consultation.

Last Updated: 07-09-2025